The Canberra Raiders are pleased to announce the re-signing of Isabella Waterman until the end of the 2027 NRLW season.
Waterman joined the Raiders for the 2025 season, playing seven games on the wing in the NRLW competition, as well as two games for Mounties in the Harvey Norman NSW Women’s Premiership.
The 25-year-old also starred for Fiji Bulikula in the World Series matches in October, helping the side earn the final place in the 2026 Rugby League World Cup.
Waterman originally comes from a rugby background, having played three seasons for Hurricanes Poua in the Super Rugby Aupiki competition, as well as playing a season for Matatū. She also spent a season at the Newcastle Knights in 2024, her first season in the NRLW competition.
Raiders NRLW Coach Darrin Borthwick said he’s excited to secure Waterman for the next two seasons.
“When Izzy came here, she was a late signing and one that I didn’t regret. Whenever she got her opportunity she put in 110 percent,” Borthwick said.
“You could see the improvement from game one until the end of the season, even when she went and played at Mounties, she continued to work on her game.
“It was an easy decision to bring her back. She’s a tough player, she wants to keep getting better. She’ll add pressure again into the squad for everyone to perform and play their best footy.
“Izzy was rewarded with a Fijian jersey at the end of the year and played really well in the World Cup qualifiers. I think for someone who is so willing to learn and get better, to have that opportunity for a couple of more years to keep working on her craft it’s scary to think how good she can get.”
Waterman said she can’t wait to get back to Canberra and continue her rugby league journey.
“I’m extremely excited to be locked in with the Raiders for another two seasons. The club has been great for my development and I’m really grateful for the opportunity to stay within the Raiders system,” Waterman said.
“Being able to keep learning and growing my rugby league under the guidance of Bortho and the rest of the coaching staff, along with the playing group, is something I’m really looking forward to. I feel like it’s the best environment for me to keep improving both my skills and my rugby league IQ.
“I absolutely loved my first season in green. Season 2025 was a big step forward for me, especially getting to play a lot more games compared to 2024. That game time helped me grow so much in confidence and really develop my rugby league.
“I’ve also made some great connections within the team, which made the whole experience even better. Being part of such a supportive group has played a massive role in how much I’ve grown as a player.
“Heading into 2026, I’m really excited to meet new players and continue learning from everyone at the club. My main focus is to keep developing, keep improving my game and take on everything the coaches and players have to offer.
“I just want to keep building on the foundation I’ve created at the Raiders and make the most of every opportunity next season.”
