The Canberra Raiders are pleased to announce the re-signing of foundation player Emma Barnes for the 2026 NRLW season.
Barnes has played 24 games for the Raiders in the club’s first three seasons, predominantly providing plenty of spark off the bench in the back-up hooker role.
The 21-year-old caught the attention of Raiders NRLW coach Darrin Borthwick playing for the Queensland Rubys at the 2023 National Championships on the Gold Coast, being named in the Team of Tournament. She was then given the final contract for the club’s inaugural NRLW team, making her debut in the Raiders first game against the Sharks.
Raiders NRLW Coach Darrin Borthwick said he’s glad to have Barnes remain at the club for another season.
“Emma is one of our inaugural players that was here in 2023. She’s still very young and she has a lot to offer our team,” Borthwick said.
“To have her back for another season is terrific. I know she wants to build on her game as well.
“It’s good to have her back and we are looking for a big season from her.”
Barnes said she’s grateful to re-sign with the club and looks forward to another season in green.
“This will be my fourth year as a Raider and I am very grateful that I get to have another season at this club,” Barnes said.
“I still have a lot of learning and a lot of growing to do, so I really want to push myself this year.
“Being with this team since the start in 2023 has been an absolute rollercoaster, but there’s nowhere else I want to be.
“I love this club and I am excited to see what 2026 has for us as a group on and off the field.”
