Ali Brigginshaw has publicly supported Brad Donald, the former head coach of the Jillaroos, following his abrupt resignation after eight years of service. Donald’s unexpected exit came just weeks before the team’s debut in Las Vegas, leaving many puzzled about the reasons due to a lack of detail from the governing body. Recognised as the longest-serving and most successful coach, he guided the Jillaroos to consecutive World Cup victories and played a crucial role in the expansion of the NRLW.
Brigginshaw expressed her disappointment at Donald’s departure, recalling the great moments they shared during his tenure. She praised his dedication to the team, highlighting his commitment to improving the women’s game without leveraging his position for personal gain. Brigginshaw noted the profound impact Donald had on the sport, stating that he fought tirelessly for better opportunities for female players, such as pushing for media exposure when women’s rugby was less recognised.
Other former players, including Sam Bremner, echoed Brigginshaw’s sentiments, sharing personal anecdotes about Donald’s support during their careers. The Jillaroos are set to face England in a landmark match on March 1 in Las Vegas, marking a new chapter for the team amidst this transition.