“On behalf of the RLPA I would like to congratulate Nita Maynard on an outstanding rugby league career following her retirement announcement,” said Clint Newton, CEO of the RLPA.
“No words will be able to truly describe what Nita has done for the women’s game on and off the field. Those that know Nita and have been part of her NRLW career will have felt and benefited from her selflessness and leadership. As a trailblazer from New Zealand she pursued an uncertain rugby league career in Sydney and became one of the few foundation players to have played every season of NRLW.
“In that time, Nita has won a Premiership, played for her state, country and Māori heritage. There’s not much Nita hasn’t done playing rugby league at the elite level.
“I will be eternally proud of her contribution to the game and achievement as a rugby league player. However, it is her work off the field as a leader that makes her one of the most outstanding people in our game and one that I’ve had the pleasure of getting to know in her role with the RLPA.
“Despite the personal sacrifices and risks of speaking out on issues that matter to players, Nita became an inspiring and uncompromising player leader for the RLPA before and during her employment at the players’ association. Nita fights for better rights for female players like she plays the game: she doesn’t take a backwards step, she’s tough, determined, loyal and passionate.
“Without Nita playing her role off the field, the positives changes and advancements for women’s game might not be where they are today, and her impact on behalf of players will be felt by generations of players to come.”
“A proud mother of her amazing daughter London, and great partner to her soon-to-be-husband Jack, Nita is an incredible person and we salute her excellent career and look forward to continuing our work together at the RLPA.”
