The NRLW has quickly become one of the fastest-growing sports competitions on the planet – and the incredible women from all six clubs are the main reason for that.
But it's not just their ability on the field which has garnered so much interest, it's their remarkable stories away from the footy field which seperate them from you ordinary athlete.
Whether it's saving lives as a paramedic or studying to become a lawyer, a vast majority of players are juggling their playing career with full-time jobs.
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Their days - especially during the NRLW season - must be very busy, yet these five legends have still found the time to make a positive difference off the field.
The Veronica White Medal recognises the tireless efforts of these players in making outstanding contributions in their respective communities.
Now fans can now vote for who they think deserves to win it – although, let's be honest, all five are absolutely amazing.
You can cast your vote RIGHT HERE. Voting closes Tuesday 20 September!
Brisbane Broncos - Jaime Chapman
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Despite her busy schedule, Chapman is always volunteering her time. Chapman's work with children with disables is nothing short of inspiring. Teaming up with her charity partner 'What Ability', she has attended countless events, making a huge impact on both the children themselves and their families. The Broncos star even left her team's debutants jersey presentation early to be part of the 'What Ability's All Abilities Day'. She is also known to frequently attend ‘Meet and Greet’ sessions with Girls Junior Rugby League Clubs as well as schools. For any young girl hoping to one day make their NRLW debut, Chapman is the woman to look up to, often clearing her diary to ensure she can speak to young aspiring rugby league players and encourage them to follow their dreams.
Gold Coast Titans - Stephanie Hancock
Not only is Hancock dedicated mother who works full-time, but she also gives countless hours back to the Queensland community where she was born and raised. A 13-year rugby league veteran, Stephanie has well and truly paved the way for young females in the sport. And even at 40 years of age, her passion for driving participation among women hasn't slowed up, often in the community building and running development programs. Incredibly, Hancock is actually the founder of the Woman’s 'Rugby League Charity Match' which was created for drought-stricken communities. That event raised a whopping $10,000 for drought relief.
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Newcastle Knights - Millie Boyle
Boyle has a huge passion for helping those living with disability. Her urge to help improve life experiences for people living with disability was born from her own life experiences where she grew up with little sister, Hannah, who lives with Down Syndrome. In a bid to drive inclusivity and participation among people with disability, Boyle set up the 'Game Changer' program which provides opportunities to develop life, vocational, physical, mental and social skills. In just six months, the Knights fan favourite has delivered seven 'Game Changer' workshops across Australia, changing the lives of over 200 participants. Any spares second she's got, Boyle uses the time to visit hospitals.
Parramatta Eels - Kennedy Cherrington
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Cherrington is a true role model to all, inspiring children with illness to follow their dreams. That desire comes from her own experiences, where she grew up with a severe heart disease. Now, as one of the NRLW's biggest stars, she uses her platform to give back to charities and organisations that helped her overcome her own heart issues. Cherrington is the face of a number of charities and fundraiser events, including 'Heart Kids Charity', the '2 Feet and a Heartbeat' walk, the 'Superhero Day' fundraiser as well as the 'Sweet Heart Day'. If you're into your TikTok and Instagram, there's a good chance you would have bumped into the Eels forward. Boasting a colossal social media following, Kennedy uses her platform to raise awareness for 'WhatAbility' while also reaching out to Maori girls.
Sydney Roosters - Olivia Kernick
Firstly, Kernick already juggles two gigs as a law firm receptionist and a learning support officer in a school. Secondly, she firmly believes that her primary work commitments doesn't mean she can't make yet more positive impacts on people elsewhere. As a proud Indigenous and Maori woman, Kernick played a huge role in facilitating the Sydney Roosters' NAIDOC week celebrations. The Chooks star sees opportunities to represent her culture as a huge honour and therefore throws every ounce of effort into her educational talks. She also views it as a chance to inspire Indigenous and Maori girls to keep striving achieve their dreams. She is also involved in the 'Tricolours Development Days', 'Sydney Roosters Sponsorship' evening, 'Kikupa Cup Touch Football Gala Day' and many more events.
Topics: Australia, NRL, Rugby League