The world of women's rugby league is abuzz with anticipation as the 2026 State of Origin series unfolds, but it's not without its fair share of controversies and debates. At the forefront of these discussions is Kennedy Cherrington, a player who's had enough of the noise surrounding the scheduling of women's Origin and is calling for a shift in focus towards the quality of the game itself.
The Scheduling Debate
The timing of the women's State of Origin has been a long-standing point of contention. Critics argue that placing it at the start of the footy season may hinder performance quality, as most players haven't competed at the top level for at least six months. This has led to the suggestion that the women's Origin should be scheduled later, allowing NRLW form to dictate selection and potentially elevate the standard of play.
However, Cherrington believes that the focus should be on the product delivered, not the calendar. She emphasizes the need to celebrate the arrival of the season and the amazing product that the fans will witness, regardless of a few mistakes here and there.
Online Criticism and the Reality of Semi-Professionalism
The series opener, a gritty 11-6 win for the Blues, faced criticism online, with some deeming it one of the "worst games" they'd seen. Cherrington took to X to address this, pointing out the disrespectful comments disguised as criticism. She highlighted the challenges of being a semi-professional athlete, balancing training, full-time jobs, families, and studies, and emphasized that dismissing athletes' efforts reflects more on bias than quality.
"Respect isn't gendered," she wrote, a powerful statement that underscores the need for a shift in perspective and appreciation for the sacrifices made by these athletes.
Personality and Authenticity on the Field
As the series progresses, Cherrington is determined to let her personality shine through. She believes that Origin is a platform for players to express themselves and let their footwork do the talking. Growing up as the older sister of five, Cherrington is no stranger to banter, and she brings that authenticity to the field, a trait her mother has always encouraged her to embrace.
"I just let loose on the field," she says, a statement that hints at the fiery and passionate play we can expect from her in game two at Suncorp Stadium.
A Broader Perspective
The scheduling debate and online criticism surrounding the women's State of Origin highlight the unique challenges faced by female athletes in semi-professional sports. It's a reminder that while we celebrate the growth and visibility of women's sports, there's still a long way to go in terms of appreciation and understanding of the sacrifices made by these athletes. Cherrington's stance serves as a powerful reminder that, regardless of the external noise, the focus should always be on the athletes and the incredible product they deliver on the field.
As we eagerly await game two, let's hope the series continues to showcase the talent and passion of these women, and that the debates surrounding it serve as a catalyst for positive change and a deeper appreciation of women's sports.
