07/09/2026
🐬 GRAND FINAL BOUND — OUR KAWANA WOMEN 🐬
What a year this team has had.
Our Open Women have earned their place in the 2026 Grand Final after a fantastic 30–12 Preliminary Final win over Maroochydore on Sunday.
Under coach Tom Royal, this group has been among the top two teams all season, and that consistency hasn’t happened by accident.
This team is a fantastic mix of younger players coming through and experienced players bringing leadership, knowledge and composure. Add plenty of skill, dedication and determination, and they have been an absolute pleasure for our club to watch throughout 2026.
But one of the things that stands out most about this group is the way they play for each other.
They are a team.
They turn up for each other, work hard for each other and, when things get tough, they stay together. That has been evident throughout the entire season.
Sunday’s Preliminary Final was another example of what this group is capable of. With a place in the Grand Final on the line, they stepped up, played some terrific rugby league and came away with a well-earned 30–12 victory.
A huge congratulations and thank you to coach Tom Royal for the job he has done with this group. Building a successful team is about much more than what happens on game day. The culture, belief and togetherness within this team have been evident all year, and Tom has played an enormous role in creating that.
Alongside Tom has been assistant coach and Leaguesafe Brad, whose support has been invaluable throughout the season. Thank you, Brad, for the time, commitment and support you have given Tom, the players and the entire team.
A special thank you also to Justin, our Strength and Conditioning Coach across all of our senior teams. The work Justin puts in with our players throughout the year plays an important part in preparing them physically for the demands of senior rugby league, and we greatly appreciate the commitment he gives not only to our women, but to all of our teams.
To our FAOs — Ash, Craig and Adam — thank you for the care, time and commitment you have given our players throughout the year. The work you do looking after our women is such an important part of our game and is greatly appreciated by the club.
These roles behind the scenes don’t always receive the recognition they deserve, but teams simply don’t get onto the field every week without people willing to give their time and support.
To all our families, friends, volunteers and supporters who have been there week after week getting behind these women — thank you. You are part of this journey too.
Ladies, you have absolutely earned this.
You have been one of the competition’s leading teams all year. You have shown skill, commitment, determination and, most importantly, what can be achieved when a group plays for each other.
Now you have earned the opportunity to play for a Premiership.
Enjoy Grand Final week. Take in every moment and be incredibly proud of what you have achieved together.
But there is still one more job to do.
One more game.
And your entire Kawana Dolphins family will be right behind you. 🐬
LET’S GO KAWANA!
🏆 GRAND FINAL BOUND 🏆
