Emma Tonegato Joins NRL Wheelchair as Ambassador

[Sydney, 22 January 2024] – NRL Wheelchair is thrilled to announce the appointment of Emma Tonegato OAM as the organisation’s latest Ambassador. Emma’s extensive background as an elite athlete and her passion for inclusivity and community make her a valuable addition to the Wheelchair Rugby League Australia family.

WRLA Chair Martin Meredith expressed his appreciation of Emma’s involvement, commenting, “We are delighted to have Emma join the team as an Ambassador. Her dedication to promoting social, health and well-being benefits aligns perfectly with our goal and mission at Wheelchair Rugby League Australia.”

Emma Tonegato is a well-known figure in Australian sports, having achieved remarkable success on and off the field. She has made her mark as an Olympic Gold Medallist with the Rugby Sevens and is a sought-after representative NRLW player. Her outstanding accomplishments and commitment to inclusivity through her role as Equal Access Program Lead at the Cronulla Sharks and her experience as a Paediatric Occupational Therapist make her a role model for many.

As Ambassador for NRL Wheelchair, Emma is eager to extend her support to the wheelchair version of Rugby League and promote it to a broader audience. She believes in the inclusivity of the sport, commenting, “I love everything about Wheelchair Rugby League. I love that you can play with or without a disability and how families, siblings and partners play together. When I saw the game in action, it was really exciting.”

Emma’s journey with Wheelchair Rugby League began through her involvement with NRL Wheelchair Cronulla Sharks activations. Reflecting on the sense of community in Wheelchair Rugby League, Emma added, “I love how Wheelchair Rugby League has such a great sense of community. I’ve got three brothers, and I would never be able to play on a field with them, but Wheelchair Rugby League would offer me that chance.”

Emma Tonegato’s dedication to inclusivity and her passion for making a positive difference align perfectly with Wheelchair Rugby League Australia’s values. Her appointment as an Ambassador will raise the sport’s profile and inspire more people across Australia to get involved.

For media enquiries and additional information, please contact:  Jo Ryan, 0421 059 866

About Wheelchair Rugby League Australia:

Wheelchair Rugby League Australia is a leading organisation dedicated to promoting inclusivity, health and well-being through the sport of Wheelchair Rugby League. WRLA provides opportunities for people of all abilities to engage in a dynamic and exciting sport from community to representative level.