'Such an honour': Weekes turns setback into NRLW debut

Having fought back from a long-term injury last season, Grace-Lee Weekes will become Cronulla's third NRLW debutante in three weeks against the Cowboys at Sharks Stadium on Saturday night.

With Annessa Biddle accepting a one-week ban for a high tackle, Weekes will follow in the footsteps of Jaydika Tafua and Stephanie Faulkner as she notches up her maiden NRLW appearance, earning the title of Shark No.34.

"It's such an honour to run out for the Sharkies girls and especially at a home game – we'll have all the home fans," Weekes said. 

Arriving at the Sharks on a development contract in 2023, the 21-year-old was promoted to the top 24 squad last year. However, a fractured fibula while playing in the NSW Women's Premiership ended her campaign before it truly began.

"It was definitely tough," Weekes conceded.

"I feel like my season was ripped away from me; it was the very first game of the season. I've come back stronger, I'm more hungry to play."

The sister of Canberra Raiders NRL star Kaeo Weekes has impressed Sharks NRLW coach Tony Herman with her resilience and determination.

"She's forged through some really tough times and we're really excited to see what she brings this weekend," Herman said.

The young gun was part of the NSW U19s Origin team in 2023 just a few years after taking up rugby league, highlighting her natural talent and skill.

Weekes fell into the sport primarily because her brother and sister had played for many years. Being around the game inspired her to join in.

"It wasn't really my thing," Weekes revealed.

"I was playing netball and then once I had a crack I just didn't let go of it."

The speedy outside back is ready to take her performance to a new level, praising coach Herman and her teammates for their support.

"This year especially, Tony and the girls have instilled a lot of confidence in me," she said. "I'm just excited to take this next step and see where my game can go from here."

Sharks captain Tiana Penitani Gray is thrilled to be playing alongside the talented Weekes on Saturday night.

"She's someone I've taken under my wing the past couple of seasons, and it's been really fun watching her develop as a player … To see her rewarded for all of that hard work is exciting for us as a squad," Penitani Gray added.

Weekes' wing partner Georgia Ravics also backed the rookie to start strong.

"She's worked so incredibly hard in the off-season – she's been there, she's been doing the extras, and she's ready to go," Ravics declared.

Kick-off tomorrow is at 5.15pm AEST. CLICK HERE to secure tickets.