The year 12 Gloucester High School student has progressed in her journey toward professional football after being the only Hastings League player chosen to play on the trial squad which determines who will represent NSW Country.

After playing in the six week Country Rugby League Nines Hastings League Women, she was picked to play on the Hastings League’s representative side in the February trials.

Tayla said she played the two trail games to the best of her ability but she didn’t think her playing was at the same level as some of the other players at the event. 

So, she was surprised when her name was on the list for the CRL’s Northern squad.

She will be playing alongside and against nine current Jillaroos during the Country Northern versus Southern in a representative trial to be played on Saturday, April 14.

“It’s scary but also exciting,” she said.

“I’m more excited about the opportunity to play along side and against the Jillaroos.”

“I will learn a lot from them.”

The CRL Northern and Southern Women’s Trial represents another step in the sequential pathway for female players to progress from local competitions to the elite level.

This could lead to Tayla being selected into the Country side which are due to meet the City side in May.

“It’s so good,” Tayla said about the prospect of continuing to play a sport she loves and one she wants to see through to a career level.

“That’s where I want to take it,” Tayla smiled.

After she finishes her Higher School Certificate (HSC) this year, her plan is to attend the University of Newcastle and play football; with the ultimate goal of turning professional one day.

“Maybe in a few years times,” she hopes.

The CRL Northern and Southern Women’s Trial will be played alongside CRL’s Junior Representative Andrew Johns and Laurie Daley Cup Finals on Saturday, April 14 at a yet to be announced.