The Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs are excited to announce the signing of local talent Angelina Teakaraanga-Katoa for the Club's inaugural NRLW squad.
Teakaraanga-Katoa, who began her rugby league journey within the Bulldogs district, will join the squad for the 2025 and 2026 seasons.
A dynamic addition to the Bulldogs, Teakaraanga-Katoa first made her mark at the Milperra Colts, part of the Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs District Junior League, finding the sport at 19 years old. Originally from Auckland, New Zealand, she transitioned from a promising tennis career to rugby league, where her exceptional talent was quickly recognised. Identified through the Bulldogs pathways system, she was selected for the Club’s development programs which saw her progress through the Tarsha Gale Cup and the Harvey Norman Women’s Premiership, leading to a standout season in 2022 that earned her an NRLW contract with the Sydney Roosters and selection for City representation.
In 2023, Teakaraanga-Katoa joined the St George Illawarra Dragons for the NRLW season. Her maiden year at the Dragons was remarkable, with Teakaraanga-Katoa appearing in all nine of their fixtures. She averaged 123 run metres per game and completed 196 tackles with nearly 90% efficiency. Her impressive performances earned her a debut with the Kiwi Ferns in October 2023, where she played a crucial role in their historic victory over the Jillaroos.
Despite being offered an extension to stay at the Dragons until at least the end of 2025, Teakaraanga-Katoa has chosen to return to the Bulldogs, where her rugby league journey first began.
The prop expressed her excitement about rejoining the Club and will bring a wealth of experience and knowledge to next year’s inaugural squad: “I am incredibly grateful for the opportunity to return to the Bulldogs. The environment here fosters growth both on and off the field. The specialised coaching and the Club’s commitment to supporting players in their professional and personal lives is truly remarkable. The Bulldogs have always been like family to me, and I am proud to be part of this Club once again next year.”
Adam Hartigan, Bulldogs Head of Pathways, said the Club were thrilled about the signing of such a strong local talent: “We are thrilled to welcome Angelina back to the Bulldogs. Her talent and experience are exceptional, and her previous contributions to the Club, coupled with her recent performances at the Dragons and with the Kiwi Ferns, underscore her dedication and skill. We look forward to seeing her continue to excel with us in the inaugural NRLW season.”
Out of respect to Teakaraanga-Katoa and for the Dragons current NRLW season, the Club will make no further comments at this time and until she joins the Club for the 2025 pre-season.
