Newly minted signing Alexis Tauaneai represents a new breed of NRLW player, with the talented forward committing to a two-year deal as she returns to the Club as a key cog in the engine room.
The 19-year-old’s talents have been on show so far in this year’s NRLW Premiership as a mainstay in the Dragons’ campaign which has seen her don the no.13 jersey in each of the opening five matches.
Not only that, but the dynamic middle forward has proven to be a stand-out across the competition, averaging a staggering 147 metres and playing 337 out of a possible 350 minutes so far.
Inaugural Head Coach Blake Cavallaro spoke highly of Tauaneai’s ability, touching on bringing the youngster back to the Bulldogs on a two-year deal, having previously donned the Blue and White within the Club’s Pathways.
“Alexis played in the Tarsha Gale Cup and Harvey Norman Women’s Premiership at the Bulldogs, and I’m pleased to say she’s coming home to the Club,” said Cavallaro.
“She is versatile as a middle, is a really good ball player and still quite young. I can’t wait to see how she develops in the Bulldogs colours.”
Tauaneai first became a Bulldog when she made a move to Belmore from across the Tasman in the off-season ahead of the 2023 Tarsha Gale Cup season.
The versatile front-rower quickly became a cornerstone of the team, with her strong carry and running game also yielding a Harvey Norman Women's Premiership debut that same year.
The then 18-year-old received the 2023 NSWRL Tarsha Gale Player of the Year honours and was rewarded with selection in NSW’s 2023 Under 19s State of Origin squad but instead opted to declare her allegiance to the Kiwi Ferns.
The breakout season landed her a spot in the Dragons NRLW squad for this year. Now she will return to Belmore to take up Club colours once more.
“I started at the Bulldogs when I first moved from New Zealand and they welcomed me with open arms,” Tauaneai said.
“I only met Blake this year, but I knew he had an impressive CV when it came to coaching. I played against the sides he coached in the Tarsha Gale Cup, and I’m excited to play under him.
“The thing that comes to mind when I think of the Bulldogs is family. They’re a very accepting Club no matter who you are, and they’re a Club that wants to instill a good work ethic and good attitude. Everyone I’ve seen come to the Club have had those attributes.
“It always felt like it was another home for me, so I’m excited to be blessed with this opportunity.”
While the talent is set to make her return in 2025, out of respect to Tauaneai and her current club, the Bulldogs will not be making any further comment at this time. The Bulldogs would like to wish her all the best for the remainder of the season.
