Warriors coach Ron Griffiths believes an influx of elite experience has the New Zealand-based side set to become a genuine NRLW premiership contender into the 2026 season.
Preparing for a trial against the Broncos in Christchurch on June 21 ahead of their second season back in the NRLW, Griffiths is confident that his new recruits will elevate the developing Warriors’ squad and channel a strong cultural foundation.
“We have a squad this season that is competitive, and no doubt has the potential to be there on the final day," Griffiths said.
“We believe we’ve got a good mix of youth, experience and players who are looking for an opportunity.”
After a premiership-winning campaign with the Broncos, star playmaker Gayle Broughton has arrived ready to take on a key leadership role within the Warriors’ line-up.
The two-time Olympic sevens medallist has already transitioned seamlessly into the Wahs squad, which also includes former Broncos team-mates Mele Hufanga, Annetta Nuuausala and Stacey Waaka.
Broughton and Hufanga also play together for the Kiwi Ferns, Nuuausala is the Fetu Samoa captain and Waaka is a superstar of New Zealand rugby sevens who is returning to the NRLW after a brief stint with the Broncos in 2024.
Griffiths believes Broughton’s leadership will add crucial experience that the squad lacked last year and the star playmaker is embracing her leadership role at the Warriors.
“My role changes at this club. Here, I’m helping lead these girls,” Broughton said.
“I’m trying to find my voice, the balance that I create, and my role in helping to inspire the next generation.”
Broughton’s decision to move back to New Zealand after three years and sign with the Warriors was driven by a desire to be closer to her son, Eastyn.
“He’s almost one now, I didn’t want to miss those big milestones of his," she said. “It's been a dream come true to come home to Aotearoa and be around my closest people.”
Griffiths also believes Waaka’s influence will extend beyond the field, despite her rugby league experience being limited to five NRLW appearances on the wing for the Broncos.
“She’s advanced, she’s played rugby league before, and she would’ve got some great education at the Broncos. So, we aren’t starting from scratch with her," he said.
“Our development players are really going to be able to sit in the locker room with her and feel comfortable to learn and grow from her. And that’s really important from our perspective.”
Broughton said Hufanga, who adds strike in the centres, and Nuuausala, an inspirational prop who has played every NRLW season, were already lifting standards within the group.
“We bring a different type of energy to this team, a level of high-performance footy, and a balance to the team”, said Broughton.
“We’re Wahs now, and we work towards that."
Following a surge in support during the 2025 season, the Warriors have built what Griffiths describes as a “juggernaut”, with a culture and fan base unlike any other in the NRL.
“I’ve got no doubt since they’ve been here, they’ve felt a different environment and a culture they’ve never experienced anywhere else before,” said Griffiths.
Broughton commended the pride and cultural richness permeating the Warriors club, “a team filled with Whakahīhī”.
“This team always has an aura," Broughton said.
Match: Warriors v Bulldogs
Round 1 -
home Team
Warriors
away Team
Bulldogs
Venue: FMG Stadium Waikato, Hamilton
Match broadcasters:
- WatchNRL
