Brisbane-born forward and Jillaroo Keilee Joseph is coming home.
The 21-year-old, two-time NRLW Second Rower of the Year, Indigenous All Star, and Queensland Maroon has signed a two-year contract with the Broncos, starting in 2024.
After two seasons and twelve games with the Sydney Roosters, including the team’s Premiership-winning victory over the Dragons during the postponed 2021 season, Joseph is leaving for the north.
The former Marsden and Mabel Park State High School graduate, who was coached by Broncos captain Ali Brigginshaw and was named Player of the Match during Game 1, made her Origin debut this year. She was also a former captain of the Queensland under-19 team.
Joseph averaged 105 run metres and recorded 271 tackles at 95.4 efficiency in 2023, bringing both offensive but defensive strike power to Brisbane’s line-up.
“I just wanted to be a part of it after seeing how well the Broncos did last year and what they put together, the style of football, and the culture,” Joseph stated.
My partner and I were flown up by Princey (Scott Prince) and the Broncos for a conversation, and everything they discussed made me want to move back home.
Being able to spend more time with my family, with whom I am very close, is truly a wonderful opportunity.
“They’re happy to have me back home, even though my dad is a Penrith fan, so I’m not sure if he’ll be wearing the colors. They’re pretty excited.”
I haven’t had much time to think back on the year because I was selected for the Jillaroos squad and played in my first Origin match.
I’ve learned a lot from playing with Ali (Brigginshaw) on the Queensland team, and she’s been such a great support and mentor. I can’t wait to absorb everything Brisbane has to offer—they have an incredible amount of experience.
“This is fantastic news for the Brisbane Broncos, to be bringing someone of Keilee’s caliber to the club, as one of the young superstars of the league,” stated Broncos NRLW Head Coach Scott Prince.
“She has demonstrated her ability to step up when called upon and to seize every chance that has presented itself.
Nothing is more special than her coming to play for her hometown after having won a Premiership and representing her state, nation, and heritage.
Joseph will be a familiar face in Queensland, where he plays for Souths Logan Magpies in the BMD Premiership, even though he won’t move fully to Brisbane until the NRLW preseason.
