Patston paves the way for female rugby league talent

TITANS winger Lily Patston is inspiring junior female players on the Northern Rivers after a history-making National Rugby League Women’s debut on the Gold Coast.

Patston, 24, is the first NRLW player to come through the Ladies League Tag competition, introduced in 2018 to give junior girls a pathway into the game before progressing to full-contact tackle competitions.

She began with the Marist Brothers Ramettes, winning multiple awards and premierships, and added a 2022 grand final win in the tackle competition with Ballina.

Patston moved into the Queensland system last year with the Tweed Seagulls, joined the Burleigh Bears this season and trained with the Titans through the pre-season with no guarantee of selection.

Titans coach Karen Murphy, a former NSW and Australian representative, has since selected Patston at wing and fullback, handing her a late call-up at fullback on debut against Brisbane in Round 2.

“It’s exciting to give a debut a bit earlier than we expected,” Murphy said.

“Lily trained with us in the off season, and we knew she would do whatever it takes for the team.

“It’s a big moment for anyone coming into an NRLW team and they’re here because they’ve worked hard and earned their spot.”

The Patston family has enjoyed a breakthrough year, with Lily’s older brother Josh also making his NRL debut for the Titans earlier this season.

Josh played one game before being recalled for the club’s clash with the New Zealand Warriors.

The siblings became the first brother-sister combination to play for the Titans, with both earning wins over the Warriors.

Lily was emotional when presented with her debut jersey in front of the squad and thanked her parents, Julie and Kevin Patston.

“My family have always been there for me and the environment I’ve been welcomed into has been amazing,” she said.

“The group has already taught me so much on and off the field and I just want to rip in.”