Jones Selected on NRLW Development List
By Alex Tigani
Muswellbrook’s Evie Jones will remain at the Newcastle Knights this year.
The talented teenager has confirmed that she has gained selection on the club’s development list less than a year after the club won their first NRLW title.
“It is a funny one, she didn’t jump up and down or pop some champagne corks when she found out,” her proud father and Muswellbrook women’s coach Gary explained.
“Evie just goes about her business.”
Last year Jones captained Muswellbrook to a 28-8 under-17 grand final win against Raymond Terrace and was declared as the player of the match.
It would have made for a four-peat of titles had their undefeated 2021 season not been cancelled due to the covid lockdown.
She also helped guide the Muswellbrook women’s tackle side to an undefeated campaign last year with wins against Murrurundi (56-0), Greta Branxton (36-0), Singleton Greyhounds (54-0), Aberdeen (48-6) and Merriwa (22-0) however suffered a fractured eye socket in the season deciding 26-0 win over the Magpies.
After months of double vision she made her return for the Newcastle Knights’ Tarsha Gale Cup side in Round 1 and finished the season as the recipient of the side’s players’ player award.
Between match-ups, many Muswellbrook locals witnessed her training by herself at the park such was her drive to succeed.
She knows if you work, the hard the success will come.
“The great Shane Webcke once said that talent gets you identified and commitment and dedication makes you a success,” Gary concluded.
“That probably should apply to all footballers.
“If you are not going to work hard, you’re never going to make it.
“She’s a good hard worker, that will never be in question.”
On top of her NRWL duties, Jones will also represent the NSW Combined Catholic College team at the national titles to be held in Redcliffe this July.