In a breathtaking season of skill, determination and teamwork and a nerve wracking final, the Cronulla Sharks NRLW team have been crowned Runners Up in their first-ever National Rugby League Women's Grand Final, and Quest Apartment Hotels could not be prouder to celebrate alongside them.
The final score in the nail-biting game was Roosters 32 – Sharks 28.
As the team's major sponsor, Quest has stood behind these incredible athletes throughout their journey to greatness, and today, not only celebrate their well-earned victory on the field but their ongoing impact as leaders, role models, and champions for gender equity in sport.
This monumental achievement marks a new era for women's rugby league, showcasing the talent, resilience, and dedication of the Sharks' incredible athletes, both on and off the field.
Celebrating the Sharks' Role Models
The Sharks NRLW team's dedication extends beyond their success on the field with many of the players active participants in giving back to their community. Emma Tonegato, as the Sharks Have Heart Equal Access Program Lead, continues to champion inclusivity and support for the disabled community, while Jada Taylor, the Sharks' Indigenous Programs Coordinator, inspires Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students through the Deadly Choices Healthy Lifestyle and Wellbeing Program.
The entire team are shining examples of how sport can create real change in the community. Quest is proud to stand alongside these remarkable women who embody the values of leadership and inclusion which are core to Quest's purpose driven business.
Quotes from Anthea Dimitrakopoulos, General Manager, Brand and Environmental Social Governance (ESG) at Quest:
"Quest is incredibly proud to stand behind the Cronulla Sharks NRLW team, driving the movement for greater equity and visibility for women in sport."
"These extraordinary athletes are more than national champions; they are living examples of what passion, dedication, and grit can achieve. But beyond their triumphs on the field, they are powerful role models, lighting the path for the next generation of young girls to follow."
Quotes from David Mansfield, Managing Director Ascott Australasia:
"Quest is honoured to be a partner of the Cronulla Sharks NRLW team as we celebrate their success as Premiership Runners Up. Beyond the game on the field, we also celebrate the team's commitment to being the 'Community Club' of the league and the efforts they make round the year to bring about meaningful inclusion for those who are marginalised, most notably the efforts of Emma Tonegato and Jada Taylor."
"These women are more than just sporting heroes, they are paving the way for a more inclusive society where everyone is welcome, a value Quest is passionate about delivering for our guests."
Quote from Cronulla Sharks Captain and NRLW Dally M Captain of the Year, Tiana Penitani:
"It's been an amazing season and I'm so proud of the girls. A huge thank you to Quest, who supported us on every step of our journey. We proudly took Quest into battle with us on our jerseys every game. Our partnership is only just getting started."
Quote from Cronulla Sharks CEO, Dino Mezzatesta
"I sincerely thank David, Anthea and the entire Quest team for taking the initiative and joining the Sharks in what has been an impressive partnership," Mezzatesta said.
"Our NRLW team's remarkable success is mirrored by the incredible impact the Sharks and Quest have made together in the community – and we've only just begun.
"Just like Quest, our NRLW players are trailblazers who are setting an example for generations to come.
"We are extremely proud of what our organisations have achieved on and off the field in 2024 and look forward to an exciting future."