By Zim Sport Live Writer
Zimbabwe-born World Cup-winning rugby sevens superstar Dominique du Toit has become the latest Australian international star to switch codes, with the Paris Olympian joining National Women’s Rugby League side Sharks for the remainder of the season.
The 27-year-old brought down the curtain on her decorated sevens career, which included a Commonwealth Games gold medal in 2022 and four World Series triumphs, after Australia’s fourth-place finish at the recent Paris Olympics.
Dominique scored 58 tries and kicked 78 goals during eight seasons on the Rugby 7s circuit before switching codes to join the Sharks.
The Zimbabwe-born, Toowoomba-raised champion will reconnect with several familiar faces from her sevens days, notably close mate Emma Tonegato and captain Tiana Penitani.
“It’s not something I was planning on doing, so it’s an exciting new opportunity and challenge. It came about post the Olympics,” du Toit said.
“I’m really good friends with Emma Tonegato and she messaged me asking if it would be something I’d be interested in.
“I jumped at the opportunity. I think I’d be silly to say no. I’m a bit nervous coming into the team; they’ve had so much success. It’s been awesome to see.
“I’ve watched them grow over the last couple of years into the season now, going four from four and sitting at the top of the ladder on their own. I’m hoping I can slot in somewhere and add some point of difference and value in the team.”
Possessing blinding speed and try-scoring nous, du Toit will further bolster coach Tony Herman’s backline stocks.
“Dom is a world-class athlete who we expect to quickly adapt to rugby league,” Herman said.
“With her vast experience, impressive skillset and willingness to learn, Dom will no doubt make her presence felt. We’re all excited to have a player and person of her calibre on board.”
After inking her contract on Tuesday, du Toit is available for the Round 5 clash with the Dragons at WIN Stadium.