Hollie-Mae Dodd: England star to make NRLW history with Canberra Raiders this weekend – ‘It’s something I dreamed of’

England international Hollie-Mae Dodd will make history on Sunday when she pulls on the green jersey to make her Canberra Raiders debut in the NRLW.

The 19-year-old back-rower became the first-ever English player to sign with a National Rugby League Women’s team following a stunning World Cup with England last autumn.

After a pre-season full of hard graft, Dodd will make her official Raiders debut in Sunday’s season opener against Cronulla Sharks.

“I’m really looking forward to it,” Dodd told reporters on the club’s YouTube channel. “It is something I dreamed of since being a little kid watching the game back home.

“I’m really excited and can’t wait to get on the field with the girls and make history.

“It’s been something I’ve wanted to do since being a little girl.

“I’ve dreamt of it, I’ve watched the girls I’m currently playing with so to actually get on the field alongside some of those girls is something I never thought would be possible.”

From Castleford to Canberra: Hollie-Mae Dodd ‘really enjoying’ her time Down Under

Dodd made history in the Challenge Cup in 2019, becoming the youngest ever player to appear in the competition, playing for Castleford the day after her 16th birthday.

She linked up with York ahead of the 2022 campaign and was named Super League’s Young Player of the Year in the end of season awards.

Dodd has already won five caps for England despite only being 19 years of age, playing in his first World Cup last year.

She took the next step in her career after the World Cup by signing for the largely professional NRLW with Canberra.

“Everyone has been really welcoming and I’m really enjoying it so far,” Dodd said.

“I’m currently working at the club and all the people within the department are really welcoming and I’m enjoying it.”

Asked what she’s most excited about ahead of Sunday’s debut, Dodd replied: “Pulling on the green jersey and just making history for the club.

“It’s been a long time coming and I know the club has been working so hard to have a women’s side here.”

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