Women’s Open Spotlight: Rep Talent, Rising Stars, and Fierce Rivals Named

Saints coach Mark Edwards, who recently served as Assistant Coach of the Australian Men’s Over 40s team at the FIT World Cup, has named a core trio that blends experience, leadership, and next-gen brilliance.

At the centre of it all is Abby King, a key playmaker with Australian representative and NRL Touch Premiership (Cowboys) honours under her belt.

“Abby’s composure and decision-making are world class,” Edwards said.

“She controls tempo beautifully, and when she goes, she goes — she’s a genuine game-breaker.”

Teaming up with King is long-time teammate Rylie Dixon (née Seamark), another player with national experience and a reputation as one of the most reliable leaders in the game.

“Rylie is a strong communicator, a calm head under pressure, and she just sets the standard for everyone around her,” Edwards said.

“She’s a massive part of this playing group.”

Both King and Dixon are part of the undefeated Rum Runners Women’s 1st Grade side, chasing their 10th straight Colliers Shield title, having not lost a match since before the COVID-affected 2020 season.

The Saints third key weapon is Layne Prince, a young up-and-comer recently selected in the Australian Emus Under 18 Girls squad for next month’s Asia Pacific Youth Touch Cup in Redcliffe.

“Layne’s an exciting young talent with speed, footwork, and that X-factor,” Edwards said.

“She’s already one of the most dangerous attacking players in our local comp.”

Meanwhile, the NQ Defence Crocs, coached by Damien Scott, have named three impact players of their own — all with unique strengths that could tip the balance their way.

Summer Donnelly, a Townsville junior now repping for North Queensland Defence, brings structure, voice, and game smarts.

“Summer’s a real leader out there,” Scott said.

“Her talk, her timing, her ability to read play — it lifts the whole team around her.”

Speedster Sophie Hartley adds unpredictability and pace, known for her ability to turn defenders inside out and deliver the unexpected.

“Sophie’s flick pass is lethal,” Scott said.

“She’s got that Benji Marshall vibe — quick, explosive, and you never quite know what’s coming next.”

Rounding out the Defence trio is Alicia Albury, the side’s most senior player but also one of the most relentless.

“Alicia’s a workhorse,” Scott said.

“She brings effort, energy, and leadership. She does all the things that don’t show up on a stat sheet — and she does them every game.”

With both teams locked in and ready, this Women’s Open match is shaping up to be a genuine highlight of the night.

Kick-off is scheduled for 6:50pm, following the Men’s Over 30s at 6:00pm and the commemorative ceremony at 5:45pm, with the Men’s Open to follow at 7:40pm.