The North Queensland Cowboys have moved swiftly to lock in the architect of their promising NRLW debut, securing head coach Ricky Henry on a new two-year deal.
Reward for a Stellar Debut Season
Henry's contract extension, which will see him lead the side until at least the end of the 2026 season, comes as a direct reward for the foundation he laid in 2024. In their inaugural NRLW campaign, the Cowboys, under Henry's guidance, defied expectations by finishing in a respectable seventh place on the ladder with five wins from ten matches. This performance showcased a competitive and well-drilled squad that consistently punched above its weight.
The club's head of football, Michael Luck, was effusive in his praise for Henry's immediate impact. Luck highlighted the coach's exceptional ability to develop a cohesive team culture and implement effective systems from the ground up. "The way Ricky brought the playing group together and established our standards in year one was outstanding," Luck stated. The decision to extend his tenure was described as a straightforward one for the club's hierarchy, who are confident Henry is the right person to build a long-term legacy for women's rugby league in North Queensland.
Building a Dynasty in the North
For Ricky Henry, the new deal represents both an honour and a challenge. He expressed his deep pride in being entrusted with the ongoing development of the Cowboys NRLW program. His vision extends far beyond the initial season, focusing on creating a sustainable pipeline of local talent and establishing the Cowboys as a perennial force in the competition.
"We've only just scratched the surface," Henry remarked, emphasising that the hard work is far from over. His plans for the coming years include intensifying the development of junior players within the region and refining the team's strategic approach. The goal is clear: to transform the Cowboys from plucky newcomers into genuine premiership contenders. This long-term project, he believes, requires stability and continuity at the coaching level.
Stability and High Expectations for the Future
The contract extension sends a powerful message of stability to the playing group and the wider rugby league community. It assures the squad that the systems and culture they bought into in year one will remain consistent, allowing for deeper growth and understanding. For fans, it builds excitement and confidence in the program's future direction.
With the core framework now solidified, expectations will naturally rise for the 2025 NRLW season. The team will aim to improve on its seventh-place finish and push for a finals berth. Henry's task will be to manage this increased pressure while continuing to foster the underdog spirit that served the team so well in its debut. The Cowboys' NRLW journey, under Ricky Henry's steady hand, is now firmly focused on building a lasting legacy in the women's game.
