NSW Waratahs Womens Fullback Caitlyn Halse is Feeling that Grand Final Buzz

NSW Waratahs back Caitlyn Halse says her side is buzzing with excitement as they prepare for Saturday’s Super Rugby Women’s Grand Final against traditional rivals, the Queensland Reds, at North Sydney Oval.

Speaking to media on Thursday at the NSW Waratahs Women's base at Daceyville, Halse said they are relishing the opportunity to compete for a record sixth title, with a mix of youth and experience bringing energy to the squad.

“The vibes have been really high,” Halse said.

“Everyone’s keen to get out there — some girls will be playing in their first Grand Final, while others have a bit more experience under their belts.

"It’s a great mix and everyone’s just so excited for the weekend.”

NSW Waratahs Women's Head Coach Mike Ruthven has spoken throughout the season about chasing a full 80-minute performance from his side.

Halse agrees that such a performance will be crucial in Saturday’s decider.

“We started really well last week,” Halse said of the NSW Waratahs Women's semi-final win against the Western Force at Leichhardt Oval last Sunday.

“But in the last 20 minutes of the first half, we probably took our foot off the pedal and let them back into the game.

"This week, the aim is to push through those moments, keep the intensity up for the whole 80 minutes, and really kick on in the second half.”

The NSW Waratahs Womens Grand Final journey is particularly meaningful for Halse whose hamstring injuries sidelined her at key parts of the campaign.

However, the time away from the field offered unexpected benefits.

“Obviously rehab was quite a lengthy process,” Halse said.

“But it gave me a different perspective. Watching training and games from the sidelines helped me understand things I didn’t always see when I was playing.

"It’s definitely helped me improve my game.”

Despite the challenges, Halse said she maintained a positive mindset throughout her recovery.

“I tried not to think too much about missing out on big opportunities,” she said.

“I kept talking to the coaches, my teammates, and my people outside of rugby.

"Their support really helped me stay positive.”

As for this weekend’s match, Halse knows the stakes are even higher given the fierce sporting rivalry between New South Wales and Queensland.

“It’s a massive rivalry in every sport, and rugby’s no different,” she said.

“It’s going to be a big game — whoever takes their opportunities best will come out on top.

"We know it’s going to take a full 80-minute performance.”

Standing opposite Halse on Saturday will be Reds fullback Charlotte Caslick, a star Halse once idolised while coming through the junior ranks.

“Charlotte was definitely someone I looked up to when I was younger,” Halse admitted. “I even started braiding my hair like her."

"She was one of the reasons I wanted to make the Olympics for Sevens. It’s pretty crazy to think now I’ll be playing against her.”

Caslick, a decorated Australian Sevens player, has transitioned into the XVs game this season. Halse believes her opponent is improving every week.

“She’s doing really well,” Halse said.

“There’s a lot more to fullback than people realise, especially with the positioning and backfield coverage.

"You can see Charlotte getting better each game.”

Hailing from a proud rugby family, Halse first picked up a rugby ball at seven years old, after her father — a lifelong rugby player — encouraged her to try it.

“Mum wouldn't let me play ... she was too scared, but after a year of netball, Dad got me into both league and union,” Halse said.

“I played that through juniors, made the NSW Under-18s in 2020 ... 2022, and came through the pathways of the Womens Program from there.”

She balanced her blossoming rugby career with studies, but his year she has opted to focus fully on rugby.

“I am having a break (from studies) ... It’s a big year for rugby, so I’m working at the moment,” she said.

"But work has helped my balance with rugby, not always having my mind focused on rugby, having other things to enjoy."

Halse and her teammates are determined to leave everything out on the field on Saturday.

“Everyone’s just pumped for it,” she said.

“We know how special it is to get this opportunity. Now it’s about grabbing it with both hands.”

  When: at 2.40 pm (AEST) Saturday, 12 April 2025

  Where: North Sydney Oval, Sydney

For tickets to the SMARTECH Super Rugby Women's Grand Final click Ticketek

The game will be televised Live on 9Gem and Stan Sport – The Home of Rugby