Broncos sign Dutch bolter Linneke Gevers ahead of '26 NRLW season

The Brisbane Broncos have confirmed an eye-catching signing ahead 2026 NRLW season, securing Dutch international Linneke Gevers on a supplementary contract.

Gevers’ journey from the small village of Reek in the Netherlands – about an hour from Amsterdam – to Brisbane is nothing short of remarkable. The 28-year-old began her sporting career in rugby union but was drawn to rugby league after a friend suggested she try the sport.

Her first taste of league came on the international stage, representing the Netherlands in the World Cup European Qualifiers against Greece, Italy, Ireland, and Wales. It was Netherlands coach Brett Davidson who encouraged her to take the ultimate leap.

“He saw something in me… after four matches playing for the Dutch team he said, ‘you are crazy, you need to go to Australia’,” Gevers recalled.

Visa delays almost derailed her move, with Gevers initially cancelling her plans after 80 days of waiting. But when her visa finally came through, she boarded the plane with the last of her money and arrived in Australia 10 months ago.

Gevers made her BMD Premiership debut for the Tweed Seagulls, playing nine games across the second row and prop. Her performances, averaging nearly 130 run metres per game, earned her the club’s Players’ Player award and caught the attention of the Broncos coaching staff.

“I would never guess that I would be here… I'm very grateful that I get this opportunity,” Gevers said. “I can only dream of this – playing with the best team in the country. The girls are all so nice, and are really good teammates so for me now, it’s making sure that I fit in… I want to make my NRLW debut and then I just want to do well.”

Broncos NRLW head Paul Dyer praised Gevers’ attitude and effort-based approach:

“Linny has an infectious personality, and we are really excited to see how she progresses in our Broncos NRLW program. She gives a hundred per cent at everything she does, and she earned this contract.”

Updates to the NRLW roster rules for 2026 allows clubs to carry two additional supplementary players to help manage injuries, which sees Gevers earn her place in the program.