Charlotte Caslick, 30-year-old rugby pioneer, has been lighting up the Super Rugby Women’s competition in Australia this season. Originally having converted from another code, she was an instant impact player for the Queensland Reds. Now, they are just one win away from claiming their first Super Rugby Women’s title. Caslick’s remarkable journey includes Olympic and World Cup success with Australia’s sevens squad, and she aims to achieve her next goal: an international rugby union debut.
In her first season competing in the Super Rugby Women’s league, Caslick’s greatness has been off the charts. Her leadership and experience have been indispensable in guiding the Reds to a remarkable undefeated record, giving all Australian teams their first losses. As they gear up for the championship meet, her optimism in the team’s talent is infectious.
A Trailblazer in Rugby
Caslick’s move from rugby league to rugby union has raised eyebrows, but she’s flourished in a new setting. In 2020, she made headlines as the first woman to play with the Sydney Roosters in the NRLW. Her performance throughout the season proved her amazing versatility as an athlete. It’s on the rugby union field where her talents and experience really shine through, and that’s now on display. A veteran speedster with 16 caps for the Wallaroos, she’s one of the most experienced players in the competition.
Her fierce ambition and competitive spirit are clear as she sets her sights on the next 2025 World Cup. She dreams of planting a flag for Australia one more time. “As an athlete to be part of that World Cup would be a real highlight of my career if I get the chance,” Caslick stated.
The momentum for women’s rugby does not want to stop, with Caslick recently saying that the World Cup pool matches would be important. “The World Cup itself is just going to be incredible to be a part of,” she said. Having England in our group and getting to play them right away in the tournament is going to be a special thing.
Focused on the Task at Hand
As the grand final approaches, Caslick and her teammates remain focused on their immediate goal. Emily Chancellor, another Reds player and member of the Japanese delegation, reiterated the key role that their preparation played. “We’re so focused on performing for our state and performing for this team…so it’s all focused on the job at hand tomorrow and nothing else,” she remarked.
Chancellor took the opportunity to praise the competitiveness of this year’s Super W season. “We’ve been asking for a more competitive season since the start of Super W,” she noted. “This year, you can tell by the scorelines that the competition has got far more competitive.” The Reds’ willpower seems palpable as they close in on an unstoppable championship win.
Reflecting on their success thus far, Caslick stated, “We seem to be really hitting our straps. Everyone’s coming together and gelling nicely.” This solidarity among the squad is an encouraging sign as they gear up for a tough semifinal clash on Sunday.
Aiming for Grand Final Glory
The Queensland Reds will be dripping with confidence as they head into the final, having enjoyed an unbeaten overall campaign against their domestic foes. Caslick feels as though their form over the past couple of weeks has placed them in good stead to achieve success. “Amongst the group we have that belief there and I think you need that going into a grand final,” said Ivania Wong, another key member of the team.
The buzz among their fans and players addicted to the championship run is absolutely electric. The Reds would nothing more than to finish off their fairytale season with a grand final upset. This victory would be a monumental victory in their history.
