Rugby sevens star Levi makes code-switch to NRLW

Australian rugby sevens international Teagan Levi has signed with the Gold Coast Titans for the 2026 NRLW season, marking a significant recruitment coup for the Queensland club and another high-profile code switch in women's rugby league.

Levi, who has represented Australia in rugby sevens for the past six years, will join the Titans following the completion of her commitments with Rugby Australia. The signing comes ahead of the NRLW premiership season commencing in July.

Multi-sport athlete brings elite experience

The Gold Coast athlete brings considerable sporting pedigree to the NRL Women's competition. Before establishing herself in rugby sevens, Levi played for the Gold Coast Suns in the AFLW, demonstrating her capacity to perform at elite level across multiple codes.

Her willingness to transition between sports underscores the growing athleticism required in elite women's rugby league, with clubs increasingly targeting athletes from complementary sporting backgrounds.

"I want to test myself and keep growing as a person and a player, and this opportunity allows me to step out of my comfort zone," Levi said in a Titans statement. "Making the switch to league has always been on my mind. But I wanted to make sure I was able to be all-in and giving 100 per cent to Murph [Titans coach Karyn Murphy] and the rest of my Titans teammates."

Titans strengthen competitive roster

Titans head coach Karyn Murphy expressed enthusiasm about the acquisition, characterising Levi's signing as a significant addition to the club's playing group. The recruitment reflects the Titans' ambitions to strengthen their competitive position in the women's competition.

The signing represents a broader trend of established women's rugby league clubs recruiting athletes from alternative codes, bringing fresh skill sets and athletic profiles to the NRL Women's competition. Such moves have become increasingly common as the NRLW matures and attracts investment comparable to other elite women's sports.

Competition intensifies ahead of 2026 season

Levi's acquisition comes at a time of heightened competition for marquee talent in the NRLW. The addition of experienced international athletes strengthens the overall quality of the competition and provides established players with fresh competitive challenges.

The Titans will hope Levi's multi-sport background, combined with her rugby sevens experience, translates effectively to the 15-a-side game. Her familiarity with the Gold Coast sporting environment, having previously played for the Suns, may also provide an advantage in her transition to league.

The NRLW season begins next month, with Levi expected to integrate into the Titans' squad following her Rugby Australia schedule commitments.