Top award for Nelson Bay women’s rugby playmaker Leah Nowlan

NELSON Bay’s Leah Nowlan has been recognised for a stellar season in the Hunter Women’s Premier Rugby competition.

The 25-year-old half back demonstrated her leadership and organisational skills both on and off the field to take out the club’s Marilyn Buchanan Award.

She received her perpetual trophy, which recognises outstanding service above and beyond from a women’s player, from club registrar and stalwart committee member Marilyn Buchanan at the Gropers’ recent presentation night.

Leah is regarded as one of the competition’s most astute playmakers and an inspirational skipper who leads by example.

“She is a huge asset to our club and drives the girls with her tireless and skilful performances across the park,” team manager Leigh Byfield told News Of The Area.

Coach Michael Squires wouldn’t swap his maestro half back, who has proved a tower of strength since linking with the Nelson Bay club at the start of the 2023 season.

Leah began her rugby career with the Medowie Marauders as a rookie 20-year-old and chalked up 39 matches in the Women’s 15s, Sevens and Tens competitions during her three year stint.

With 71 matches under her belt for Nelson Bay, she brings a wealth of experience and boasts a personal tally of 26 tries and six goals, which is testament to her attacking skills and points-scoring prowess.

Leah has represented the Hunter Wildfires 15s in the Sydney Women’s Rugby Jack Scott Cup and enjoys playing alongside her talented younger sister Sierra Nowlan, who also played for Medowie before switching to the Gropers.

An outstanding flanker, 23-year-old Sierra has proved a powerhouse in the Nelson Bay engine room with consistent displays in the Hunter Women’s competition.

Sierra was also rewarded for her sterling efforts at the club’s presentation night – picking up the team’s Best Forward trophy for a second successive season.

By Chris KARAS