Wheeler's Professional Rugby League Career
The rise of professional women's rugby league has been marked by standout athletes who have made an immediate impact on the field. Among them is Wheeler, whose rapid ascent through the ranks of New South Wales and international rugby league showcased a blend of skill and resilience.
Key Facts
- Inaugural Honor: Named the first-ever St. George Illawarra Dragons' Women's Player of the Year in 2018.
- International Debut: Represented Australia in a Test match against New Zealand in October 2018.
- State Representation: Debuted for New South Wales in the State of Origin series in June 2018.
- Club Career: A key member of the St. George Illawarra Dragons in the NRL Women's Premiership.
The Breakthrough Year: 2018
Wheeler's 2018 season was a whirlwind of debuts and accolades. The year began in June when she represented NSW Country at the Women's National Championships. Shortly after, on June 22, she reached a major milestone by making her State of Origin debut for New South Wales, contributing to a 16–10 victory over Queensland.
Transitioning to the club level, Wheeler joined the St. George Illawarra Dragons for the NRL Women's Premiership. Although her debut in Round 1 resulted in a 4–30 loss to the Brisbane Broncos, her individual performance throughout the season was exceptional. On October 3, she was honored as the inaugural Dragons' Women's Player of the Year.
Her success continued on the international stage. On October 6, she played for the Prime Minister's XIII in a dominant 40–4 win over Papua New Guinea. This momentum led to her Test debut for Australia a week later, where she helped secure a 26–24 win against New Zealand.
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Continued Success and Challenges: 2019–2020
In 2019, Wheeler continued to be a staple for both her state and club. She once again represented NSW Country in May at the Women's National Championships and appeared as a substitute in New South Wales' 14–4 State of Origin win over Queensland on June 21.
The club season culminated in a high-stakes appearance in the Grand Final on October 6, where Wheeler started at lock—a position requiring high work rates and defensive strength—in the Dragons' 6–30 loss to the Brisbane Broncos. She capped off the year on October 25, coming off the bench for Australia in a 28–8 victory over New Zealand at WIN Stadium.
However, the following year brought a significant setback. In February 2020, during the NRL Nines—a fast-paced, shortened version of the game—Wheeler suffered a torn anterior cruciate ligament (ACL), a severe knee injury that ruled her out for the remainder of the season.
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Career Summary Table
| Year | Team/Competition | Key Achievement/Event |
|---|---|---|
| 2018 | New South Wales | State of Origin debut (Win vs Queensland) |
| 2018 | St. George Illawarra Dragons | Inaugural Women's Player of the Year |
| 2018 | Australia | Test debut (Win vs New Zealand) |
| 2019 | St. George Illawarra Dragons | Started at lock in the Grand Final |
| 2019 | Australia | Victory over New Zealand at WIN Stadium |
| 2020 | NRL Nines | Season-ending ACL injury |
Frequently Asked Questions
When did Wheeler make her State of Origin debut?
Wheeler made her State of Origin debut for New South Wales on June 22, 2018, in a match where they defeated Queensland 16–10.
What individual award did Wheeler win with the Dragons?
On October 3, 2018, Wheeler was named the inaugural St. George Illawarra Dragons' Women's Player of the Year.
Which international teams did Wheeler represent?
Wheeler represented both the Prime Minister's XIII and the Australian national team in Test matches.
What happened to Wheeler during the 2020 NRL Nines?
Wheeler tore her anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) in February 2020, which forced her to miss the entire season.
What position did Wheeler play in the 2019 Grand Final?
Wheeler started the game at lock for the St. George Illawarra Dragons in their match against the Brisbane Broncos.