The Newcastle Knights have made headlines with the return of Tiana Davison, a powerhouse who has already left an indelible mark on the NRL Women’s Premiership (NRLW). Davison’s re-signing marks a significant boost for the Knights as they continue building a competitive roster. Her contract, which extends through 2027, highlights the team’s commitment to retaining elite talent and developing a solid foundation for long-term success.
Davison, a skilled forward with an impressive track record, returns to the Knights after a season with the Sydney Roosters. Her performances with the Roosters were instrumental, not only in their competitive successes but also in her selection for the New Zealand Kiwi Ferns in the Pacific Championships. Her presence in these international tournaments solidifies her as one of the top forwards in the game, known for her strong work ethic and physicality. Newcastle Knights head coach Ben Jeffries expressed his enthusiasm about bringing Davison back, underscoring her impact both on and off the field. “When we had the chance to bring Tiana back to the Knights, we didn’t hesitate,” Jeffries shared. “She has great qualities, and we know her desire to compete and be better will help drive our forward pack to keep evolving.”
Davison was a key player for Newcastle in 2023, helping the team secure the premiership title. Her return brings a wealth of experience and a championship mindset, which are crucial assets for a team aiming to continue its upward trajectory in the NRLW. As the Knights look to reclaim their title, Davison’s leadership and competitive drive will likely play an influential role in shaping the team culture and fortifying their forward pack.
Adding to the Knights’ strengthened lineup is the re-signing of Grace Kukuati, a multi-talented athlete whose background spans netball and rugby union. Kukuati made a successful switch to rugby league, initially joining Newcastle’s NRLW ranks in 2024 and earning three appearances during her debut season. Her adaptability and versatility make her a valuable asset as she continues to hone her skills in rugby league. Her signing demonstrates Newcastle’s commitment to nurturing diverse talent and integrating players with unique backgrounds into their system.
Jeffries is optimistic about Kukuati’s future with the team, especially after she played a key role in Newcastle’s Harvey Norman team’s journey to the Grand Final. He noted her potential for growth, saying, “We are excited to see Grace’s ongoing progression. With a full year in our NRLW pathway and her pivotal role in our Harvey Norman team’s journey to the Grand Final, we look forward to watching Grace develop further in 2025.” Jeffries emphasized that 2024 was a learning year for Kukuati, and he believes that a spot in the top 17 NRLW team is a realistic goal for her in the upcoming season.
The Knights’ focus on player development is evident in their recent moves. With players like Davison and Kukuati, who bring a mix of experience and untapped potential, the team is poised to make strides in the NRLW. Davison’s leadership and championship experience will undoubtedly provide mentorship to younger players, while Kukuati’s versatility and athleticism showcase the team’s commitment to fostering growth.
As the NRLW landscape evolves, the Newcastle Knights’ investment in players like Davison and Kukuati aligns with a broader strategy to compete at the highest level and attract top-tier talent. Davison’s return and Kukuati’s development will likely serve as catalysts for the Knights’ ambitions in 2025 and beyond. With these dynamic players on board, the team has solidified its forward pack, positioning itself as a formidable contender for the NRLW title. As Jeffries and his squad prepare for the upcoming season, Newcastle fans can look forward to watching a team fueled by both experience and emerging talent—qualities essential for any team aiming to achieve sustained success in the league.
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