Sydney Roosters senior NRLW players Corban Baxter and Millie Elliott have today announced that they will retire from professional rugby league at the conclusion of the 2026 season.
Two highly respected figures of the women’s game, Baxter and Elliott will bring to a close decorated careers that have included success at Club, State and international level.
For Baxter, her retirement will mark the end of a remarkable journey with the Roosters that stretches back to the foundation of the NRLW competition in 2018.
A foundation member of the Sydney Roosters NRLW side, Baxter has spent her entire NRLW career with the Club and will retire as a one-club player.
Baxter has been an integral part of the Roosters’ NRLW program both on and off the field. After joining the Club for the inaugural NRLW season, she went on to captain the Roosters to their maiden NRLW Premiership and has represented New South Wales, the Australian Jillaroos and Māori All Stars.
Baxter said the Roosters had become an important part of her life and that she was proud to have represented the Club from the very beginning.
“Being a Rooster since the first NRLW season in 2018 is something I’m incredibly proud of. I’ve grown so much during my time here, both as a player and as a person, and this Club and the people in it have become like family to me,” said Baxter.
“To have been here from the beginning and to see how much the women’s game and our program have grown has been really special. There have been so many great moments along the way, and the friendships I’ve made mean so much to me. Captaining the Club to its first NRLW Premiership is something I’ll always cherish.
“I’m incredibly grateful to all of my coaches over the years, especially Strangey, who has helped me grow so much both on and off the field and supported me throughout my career, including my return to playing after having my son. I’d also like to thank Nick Politis for his support and the passion he has always shown for our women’s program.
“There are so many people who have been part of my journey. I’d like to acknowledge the Cronulla Sharks for giving me the opportunity to start my rugby league career, and thank all of my past and present teammates and coaches, the staff, Members and fans for their support over the years.
“Most importantly, I wouldn’t have been able to do any of this without my family. My parents Gina and Mike, my siblings and friends have always been there for me, and especially my husband Matt and sons Carter and Beaudy. I can’t thank them enough for the sacrifices they’ve made and the love and support they’ve given me throughout my career.
“I know the time is right for me to finish playing, and I’m looking forward to enjoying every moment we have left together this season,” she added.
Elliott will also call time on an outstanding career which has established her as one of the most accomplished and respected forwards in the women’s game.
A powerful presence through the middle and a valued leader within the Roosters squad, Elliott returned to the NRLW in 2026 following the birth of her first child and has played an important role in the Club’s campaign this season.
Currently a four-time Premiership winner, Elliott joined the Roosters in 2023 with three Premierships already to her name. She began her NRLW journey with the Brisbane Broncos (2019-2021), where she won two Premierships, before winning another title with the Newcastle Knights in 2022.
At representative level, Elliott has also enjoyed an accomplished career, representing New South Wales in State of Origin and Australia as a Jillaroo.
Elliott said she was grateful for everything rugby league had given her and was looking forward to finishing her playing career alongside her Roosters teammates.
“Rugby League has given me so much. I’ve been fortunate to play alongside some incredible people, represent at the highest level and experience things through the game that I’ll always be grateful for,” said Elliott.
“Coming back to play this season after becoming a mum was something that meant a lot to me. I wanted to challenge myself to get back out there and contribute to this team, and I’m really proud that I’ve been able to do that.
“I couldn’t have done it without my husband Adam, my mum Shelley, and my family and friends who have supported me throughout my career. They’ve made plenty of sacrifices to allow me to keep playing, and I’m incredibly grateful for everything they’ve done for me.
“Having Gigi there watching me play has made this season even more special. To be able to run out knowing my daughter is in the stands, and hopefully one day have her understand what her mum was able to achieve, is something I’ll always cherish.
“I’d also like to thank my former teammates and staff at the Brisbane Broncos and Newcastle Knights. Both clubs have played a significant role in my journey, and I have so many great memories and friendships from my time with them that I’ll always hold close.
“The Roosters have been a really special part of my career and I’ve loved being part of this group. There’s such a strong culture here and I’ve made friendships that will last a lifetime. I feel incredibly grateful to have been able to live out my dream and play footy with some of my best friends.
“To my coach Strangey, thank you for being so invested in us girls and for continuously going above and beyond. Our game is better for everything you put into it. I’d also like to thank Nick Politis. Your genuine support and passion for the women’s program doesn’t go unnoticed.
“I’m at peace with the decision and excited about what comes next, but right now my focus is on enjoying the remainder of the season and hopefully finishing my career in the best possible way with this group,” she added.
Sydney Roosters NRLW Head Coach John Strange paid tribute to Baxter and Elliott and the contribution both players have made to the Club and the wider game.
“Corban and Millie have both made enormous contributions to women’s rugby league, and we’ve been incredibly fortunate to have them as part of our program,” said Strange.
“Corban’s connection to this Club is particularly special. She has been a Rooster since the NRLW began in 2018, and over that time she has represented everything we want our players to stand for. She’s tough, competitive and selfless, and she has always put the team first. As our first-ever NRLW Premiership-winning captain, Corban will always hold a special place in the history of this Club, and to finish her NRLW career as a one-club player is something she should be extremely proud of.”
“Millie is one of the great competitors of the women’s game. She brings a toughness and presence to a team, but equally important is the experience and care she gives to the players around her. What she has done to return to this level after becoming a mum speaks volumes about her professionalism and determination.
“The impact they’ve both had on the younger players in our squad has also been significant. The way they prepare, how they look after their bodies, their diet and recovery, and the professionalism they bring to every aspect of being an elite athlete sets an example for those around them. Our younger players have been able to see first-hand what it takes to perform at this level and have learned a lot from having Corban and Millie alongside them.
“Both Corban and Millie have had a significant impact on our group, and while we’ll miss having them as players, we’re really pleased that they’ll get the opportunity to finish their careers together and on their own terms.
“We’ve still got plenty of football ahead of us this season, and I know they’ll both be determined to make the most of it,” he added.
