The Canberra Raiders announced a new addition to their team ahead of the NRLW season, with Lisa Fiaola joining as the women’s wellbeing and education manager.

The Raiders said that Fiaola brings a wealth of experience to the role as both a player and coach in the women’s rugby league and union space.

Fiaola’s resume includes representing both the Jillaroos and New South Wales in the Interstate Challenge as a rugby league player, as well as playing for the Wallaroos and New South Wales Waratahs in rugby union.

She has also made significant contributions to the women’s game off the field, with the New South Wales Rugby League under 17’s girls competition named in her honour – the Lisa Fiaola Cup.

The role will see Fiaola oversee the support and development of the Raiders’ female players both on and off the field, where she will work closely with the team to ensure they have access to the resources they need to thrive as athletes, including nutrition and fitness programs, as well as providing support for their mental and emotional wellbeing.

Commenting on her appointment, Fiaola, said: “It’s been really awesome just being in this environment as a full-time employee, it’s a dream come true really.”

“Being part of the first Canberra Raiders NRLW team, I’m very excited like everyone else here as well. I can feel the buzz when I walk through the office,” she said.

Fiaola will also help NRLW athletes in the lead up to the season with things like relocation and finding jobs and study opportunities to help them settle in Canberra.