The Canberra Raiders are pleased to announce the re-signing of Relna Wuruki-Hosea for the 2026 and 2027 NRLW seasons.
Wuruki-Hosea made her NRLW debut in round five last year, playing three games in her first season.
The 19-year-old grew up on Badu Island in the Torres Strait before moving to Brisbane to complete her high school studies.
2024 was a big year for Wuruki-Hosea, making her NRLW debut as well as playing in the Under 19s Origin for Queensland and being named ‘Weapon of the Year’ in the Queensland Harvey Norman Under 19 competition.
Raiders NRLW coach Darrin Borthwick said he is excited to lock Wuruki-Hosea in for another two years past this season.
“I’m over the moon to have Relly with us for another two seasons,” Borthwick said.
“She’s come down to an environment she’s never been in before and she did a terrific job when she debuted for us last year. Some of the stuff I’ve seen her do, I haven’t hesitated in wanting to keep her here for a few more years. She’s a quality player and a really good person as well.
“She’s quite a humble girl too. I’m excited to get to work with her again and to know she’s here for a little bit longer. She loves the club and I’m pretty sure all her family bleed green, they are real avid Raiders fans, so it’s good to know they are also having this journey with her.”
Wuruki-Hosea said she is excited to extend her time at the Raiders for another two seasons.
“I am extremely excited, the girls are lovely and the staff are amazing, I wouldn’t want to be anywhere else to be honest,” Wuruki-Hosea said.
“I’ve met some of the best girls and it means a lot to have a couple more years with them and get a stronger bond.”
“I feel like my first year was just a taste of NRLW and now I’m excited for more.
“The club is great, the community is awesome, why wouldn’t I want to sign for a couple more years? It’s the best.
“I’ve made a few best mates and will play alongside them for a couple more years so that will be so good.
“Our coaches Borth and Uncle Kenny (Nagas) are amazing, Canberra has so much to offer to me and so much support which is why I’m excited to stay for a bit longer.”
Wuruki-Hosea is also excited to have her mum, brother and step dad making the move to Canberra from Badu Island later in the year to support her.
“They are moving down so they’re closer to me, I’m excited for that.
“It was Mum’s decision, she knows I do well on my own in general but she wanted to come down for better opportunities for herself and my younger brother.”
Borthwick is pleased Wuruki-Hosea’s contract extension can help bring her family closer to her.
“This is what this great game does, it changes lives and gives people opportunity,” Borthwick said.
“Two or three years ago Relna would never have even been to Canberra but these are the opportunities we give and Relly took it last year. Now her mum and her family are doing the same. I know they can’t wait to get down here and spend time with Relna and follow her journey.”
