Lifelong Sea Eagles fan Riley McKay is living out a dream in playing for Manly in this year's Harvey Norman NSW Women’s Premiership.
We caught up with Riley to get to know a little more about her.
Player Profile
Name: Riley McKay
DOB:13/06/1998
Birthplace: NSW
Position: Second Row
Nickname: Riles
What's your favorite rugby league memory growing up?
A pretty cool memory was when the Sea Eagles took out the 2008 grand final and our family were invited back to the after party. I was 10. I got to hold the trophy and try on their premiership rings. At the time, I was sponsored by the Manly Sea Eagles and they made myself and my family feel like family through out the entire 2008 season.
Who are your favourite rugby league players in NRL or NRLW?
Mele Hufanga and Shaun Johnson
What does it mean to you to be part of the first Manly Harvey Norman’s Women’s team?
It means a lot. At a young age, I really advocated for girls playing footy and was pushing the boundaries to allow girls like myself to play and create pathways. My whole family have been Manly supporters, so to be part of the first Harvey Norman women’s side for the Sea Eagles is a dream come true.
Funniest team-mate?
This is a tough one, always love the energy Nia brings.
What are your goals this season?
To work hard with my team to win a grand final in our first season and leave behind a legacy for others to follow.
Tell us about your family and any special achievements?
My partner plays rugby league and rugby union. We have a two-year-old and a four-old, so that keeps me on my toes. My mum and dad were very supportive of my brother and I playing sport. They sacrificed a lot for us to get us to where we needed to be.
Growing up, I always use to be in the backyard playing footy with my brother and all his friends, some who play NRL now. My brother also use to be part of the Manly pathways program and represented Australia and NSW in Oztag. I’m grateful to have represented Australia and NSW in barefoot waterskiing, Oztag and Rugby Sevens.
Who is your hero?
Ronda Rousey
What's your favorite movie and why?
Remembering the Titans. It always gets me pumped up for my game.
What do you enjoy doing in your free time?
I love going to the beach and hanging out with my family.
Are you a morning person or a night owl?
Morning person, I never like to waste the day.
Coach Keith Hanley says
"Riley is a very athletic person who has represented in various her state and country in various sports, so she brings experience. She has some nice footy sense about her."
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