Sport
13 January, 2026
Local footy talent joins Cronulla Sharks U19 side
It’s to be an exciting year ahead for local Danes player, 17-years-old Ella Hollis, who has officially joined the Under 19 Cronulla Sharks team.
For six years Ella has been perfecting her football talent.
Now, all the hard work has paid off with her recent relocation to Cronulla, and the opportunity to prove herself on a national rugby league level.
Across the years, Ella has played for the Toowoomba Clydesdales, in the Country Connection Carnival, and was named Toowoomba Rugby League’s Filly of the Year in 2025.
While playing school football for the Darling Downs, an agent spotted Ella’s talent, and offered her a train and trial opportunity with the Rabbitohs or Panthers.
But it was the offer by Cronulla Sharks, to put her in if she performed, that sealed the deal for her future in rugby league.
Trial matches are scheduled this month with the season kicking off in early February.
Ella said she is excited to see where this opportunity will take her, despite at first being very surprised by her agent’s offer.
While it would be an incredible feat to make it to the National Rugby League Women, Ella intends to complete the season, do her best, and see where it leads.
Ella also enjoys basketball, boxing, and helping out at the family business, Hollis Rural Trading in the Industrial Estate in Pittsworth.
Football is a hot topic in the Hollis household with Ella’s two siblings both keen players and her father, Darren, returning this year as the coach of the Pittsworth Danes Women’s side.
Ella’s parents couldn’t be more proud, and said all those hours spent loading hay and stocking bags has paid off.
“She’s dedicated a lot of time to footy, worked hard to get here,” Darren said.
“It’s been good to see some recognition for her hard work.”
Good luck Ella!
