Jada Taylor on viral fame, the reality of injuries and the rise of the NRLW
In the latest episode of Chiming In, host Steve ‘Chimes’ Gillis sat down with Cronulla Sharks fullback and NRLW ‘pocket rocket’ Jada Taylor. The wide-ranging conversation covered everything from the try that garnered 10 million views to the personal toll of elite sport and her vision for the future of the women’s game.
The Try That Stopped the Nation
Taylor first shot to stardom during the 2022 Under 19s State of Origin, where she scored a length-of-the-field try that remains one of the most talked-about moments in recent rugby league history.
"I think the last time I was told it was over 10 million views which was pretty pretty crazy. And I don't know if the person was lying to me to get a good reaction or not. I was just playing football and I think that's something that I knew how to do. Getting out of the in goal is just your role as a fullback. So you know I'm quite competitive and if I don't have to bat the ball over the in goal area I won't do it. If I think I can get out I'll have a crack."
The Evolution of a Dream
Growing up in Tamworth, Taylor’s path to professional football was not as clear-cut as it is for the youngsters of today. Before the NRLW existed, she had to look elsewhere for inspiration.
"I didn't have that dream. I was going to be the first girl to play in the men's comp. I had an older brother who dreamed of being an NRL player and silly me thought why can't I have that dream too. I didn't have the dream of playing in the NRLW but I always love football and I knew I wanted to play some sort of footy."
Navigating the Physical Toll
Despite her rapid rise, Taylor has faced significant hurdles in the form of serious injuries. With three shoulder reconstructions and a recent ACL injury, she was candid about the mental and physical grind of rehabilitation.
"It's been a whirlwind. Three shoulder reconstructions. My first shoulder reconstruction I was 16. I'm coming up to the 12 month mark on the knee and still not back on the field. And I think I'm just itching to be out there. So at the moment I feel a little bit sorry for myself but I've always just been told to stay around the game."
Leaving the Game Better for the Next Generation
As the NRLW continues to expand, Taylor is conscious of the platform she holds and the importance of those who paved the way.
"The game's come a long way and I've definitely still got a long way to go in learning about the history of our game because if it wasn't for those women I wouldn't be where I am. It's possible that women are going to stampede the game to support your sport. Who's to say the standard's not going to be the same as the men when they get football their whole life. Get your daughter into rugby league. It's a great game."
Life Beyond the Sidelines
While football remains her primary focus, Taylor is already looking at a future that includes family and potentially a career in the media.
"I've been told before that NRL stands for not real long. So yeah definitely got to have a life outside of football and I love the media stuff and would love to be involved in that. But I think the number one would be to have a family. I think that is probably a lot of people's number one goal. I can't wait to one day add to that as well."
When asked to summarise her outlook on the sport in one final thought, Taylor was emphatic about where she sees the trajectory of the NRLW.
"The future. Females take over. Take over the world."
Watch the full episode on Fanatics TV.
