Ali Brigginshaw has announced her decision to step down as captain of the Brisbane Broncos as she approaches her final season in the NRLW. During her tenure, she successfully guided the team to four NRLW championships over the course of 56 matches.

Reflecting on her decision, Brigginshaw stated, “I’ve been contemplating this for several months, and I believe now is the appropriate time to make this change. While I’ve achieved many remarkable things here, I also want to see a new generation of leaders emerge, and I hope to support them during my last year.” She expressed her desire to have fun and alleviate some of the pressures that come with the captaincy.

While speaking at the Broncos’ Clive Berghofer Centre, she emphasized her commitment to mentoring both established and upcoming players within the organization. Brigginshaw also discussed the club’s choice to rename a meeting room at their headquarters in her honor, which was previously dedicated to Gorden Tallis, a former men’s captain and three-time premiership winner.

The decision to rename the room followed a rift between Tallis and the Broncos’ management due to his public criticism of the club. Brigginshaw commented, “Having been part of this club for a long time and engaging with the community throughout my career, I believe I have earned the recognition that this room signifies.” She added, “I spoke with CEO Dave Donaghy about this, and he acknowledged my contributions.” Brigginshaw, proud of her status as a one-club player, affirmed her loyalty to the Broncos and expressed that there was no conflict with Tallis. “Dave felt that I was the appropriate choice moving forward, and as a female player, I believe we deserve this acknowledgment,” she concluded.