The Illawarra Steelers have officially unveiled their 2025 Harvey Norman Women’s Premiership squad — and with it, a clear message, they’re not done winning yet.
The squad features a strong mix of seasoned talent and fresh new faces under the guidance of head coach Jamie Szczerbanik, who steered the side to a premiership triumph in 2024.
Despite the fanfare around last year’s historic win, Szczerbanik says the focus has already shifted to what lies ahead.
“It’s a new comp and a fresh start. There’s been no talk about 2024 — the focus is entirely on 2025 and how we can be even better,” Szczerbanik said.
The Steelers head into the new season with a culture built on trust, consistency, and hard work. That trust, Szczerbanik says, is the foundation of everything they do — on and off the field.
“Our season is built around one word: trust. Trust in yourself, trust in your teammates, and trust in the process.”
The squad has seen some turnover, with several players moving on, but that’s opened the door for fresh talent to make their mark. Preseason training has been intense, with players pushed mentally and physically in preparation for a fast and unforgiving competition.
Read More >> 2025 Steelers Squad Announcement
Returning premiership-winning prop and newly appointed club captain Mackenzie Lear believes the team is ready for the challenge.
“There’s no pressure on us to go back-to-back,” Lear said.
“Last year was great, but it means nothing if we don’t show up this year. We just want to play consistent footy, week in and week out.”
The team is in the midst of a thorough preseason, with a focus on mental resilience and leadership. According to Lear, that edge could make all the difference in tight contests.
“We’ve done a lot of hard mental tasks together, and the girls have really surprised themselves. That mindset — to keep pushing when things get tough — has been with us since day one.”
With the premiership still months away, both coach and captain are keeping things in perspective, focusing on what’s directly in front of them, Round One.
“It’s one game at a time,” said Lear. “The goal is to build momentum and trust the process.”
While every team will be gunning for the defending champions, the Steelers aren’t interested in resting on their past. If anything, last year’s title win has made them hungrier.
“Success isn’t built on individuals — it’s the whole squad,” Szczerbanik said. “We’ve got a job to do. And if we stick to what we know, we’ll give ourselves every chance.”
The Steelers campaign begins on July 5 with a home game against the West Tigers at Collegians Sports Stadium.
If their mindset is anything to go by, they’re not just showing up to defend a title — they’re here to raise the bar.
Words | Angelina Raula