Kicking off their 2025 NRLW campaign, the Titans face the Cowboys in a trial match this Saturday - a clash that celebrates two players who’ve played pivotal roles in the game’s growth across Queensland.
A year on from its debut, the Brittany Breayley-Nati - Jenni-Sue Hoepper Shield continues to honour two icons of the women’s game and for Titans forward Breayley-Nati, having her name on the shield still feels surreal.
"It's an incredible honour and a huge privilege to be named alongside a close friend of mine in Jenni-Sue," Breayley-Nati told titans.com.au.
"When I was asked last year if I'd be honoured to have a shield named after me, I honestly didn't feel worthy of it."
In readiness for her side's first hit-out of the season ahead Round 1, the former Queensland and Jillaroos rake is backing her team to deliver a strong performance against their Queensland rivals, pointing to the group’s discipline and bonding as key to their preparation.
"Pre-season has been really good with the girls, especially with all the new faces in the squad," Breayley-Nati said.
"We've all been training really hard and fresh off a good camp, so we've had a great pre-season leading into this new season."
With nine new faces set to wear Titans colours for the first time in Saturday's clash against the Cowboys, Breayley-Nati has her sights set on one in particular - young gun Ivana Lolesio.
"Everyone has really stood up this pre-season but I'm excited to finally run out there with little Vani," she said.
"Unfortunately she missed last year due to a knee injury, so I'm really excited to see what flare she can bring to the side."
A playmaking masterclass from Cowboys captain Kirra Dibb sealed North Queensland’s victory in the inaugural Breayley-Nati – Hoepper Shield last season but Breayley-Nati is confident her side is ready to turn the tables on home turf.
"We went down to the Cowboys last year up at their home ground but this time we're in our territory, so we're all very keen to get that trophy back in our hands where it belongs," Breayey-Nati said.
The NRLW season is closing in! With five games at Cbus Super Stadium this season, show your support and follow our journey as we fight for victory in '25 - on sale now!
