Women’s State of Origin Hopeful

Rugby League is in Lahni Linneweber’s blood, with close family ties to the sport.

Joining the sport in 2019, Proserpine State High School student Lahni has been on a non-stop roll, working closely with the Rise Academy to move into the sport professionally once she completes high school.

The Rise Academy is a Queensland Rugby League run pathway program, to bridge aspiring players and coaches from community rugby league to the professional circuit, particularly the QRL rebel State Development Series

Lahni was selected into the Mackay Under 16s Girls team for the Rise Curtain Raiser for the Women’s State of Origin match.

Competing earlier this week, at the pre-game match, Lahni and the Mackay team versed the Townsville Rise team.

Selected out of 30 girls, Lahni was able to tour the Townsville stadium, meet with the female players and watch the Women’s State of Origin match live.

The Year 10 student usually competes as part of the Mackay South Sharks Under 16s girls’ team, travelling to Mackay two to three times a week for training and games.

Stepping forward for the Rise Academy allows new professional development opportunities for Lahni, bettering her position to be scouted for the sport.

Looking past Year 12, Lahni is looking to play the sport competitively, and is eager to welcome any opportunity to play rugby league on the big screens.

“I really want to play for the Sharks, professionally,” she said.

“And play for the Maroons one day.”

Next year, she is looking forward to North Queensland football opportunities to compete outside of Mackay, and to further develop her skills and techniques.

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With professional aspirations, Lahni Linneweber is welcoming all new opportunities. Photo credit: Bronte Hodge

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