Already considered the best women’s rugby league player in the world, Ipswich’s Ali Brigginshaw has added another accolade to her long list of achievements by winning 2020 Dally M Female Player of the Year.
Brigginshaw collected the highest accolade in women’s footy surrounded by her teammates on Monday night.
Brigginshaw thanked mentor Karen Murphy who is a former Jillaroo and decorated police officer.
“Playing alongside her as a five eighth when I was 18, she taught me everything on the field and off the field, she is someone who is highly regarded in the women’s game and to this day I ring her and text her before each game just thanking her for the opportunities she has given me,” Brigginshaw said.
She said she was truly humbled and grateful to receive the award.
“Congratulations to all the nominees and everyone involved in this year’s NRLW, we have all had to make massive sacrifices to play in 2020 and everyone should be proud,” Brigginshaw said.
“Finally, I have to thank my beautiful partner Kate and the kids, whom without their constant support and encouragement and a lot of understanding I wouldn’t be the player I am today.”
Brigginshaw polled 16 votes to win the award beating fellow Bronco Tamika Upton by two votes.
A new attacking structure has seen Brigginshaw move to the lock position this season where she has averaged 165 kick metres, 83 running metres and 16.6 tackles.
Brigginshaw has captained her team to three wins this season and she is chasing a third straight premiership win this weekend in the NRLW grand final against the Sydney Roosters.
“The job’s not done yet and we have a big game on Sunday,” Brigginshaw said.
She will lead her team out in front of 40,000 fans on 25 October kicking off at 3.05pm Queensland time.
Brigginshaw is passionate about her local community and giving back.
“Ipswich is huge for rugby league and I’ve had so much support since I was 10,” she said.
“Being the only girl at every football game and knowing that Ipswich was always behind me, I’m always trying to give back.
“Right now I’m really working on making sure Ipswich is out there whenever I go anywhere.
“I remember where I came from.”