Balancing elite sport with the demands of a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine is no easy feat, but for Sydney University student Claudia Nielsen, it has become part of everyday life.
The final-year veterinary medicine student has earned selection in the NSW Universities Rugby League women’s side for this year’s interstate clash against Queensland, continuing her rise through the Rugby League ranks which has already seen her establish herself in the NRLW.
Nielsen will travel to Brisbane with the NSW squad ahead of the State of Origin fixture on Saturday, 23 May.
A former member of Sydney University’s Elite Athlete Program from 2022 to 2023, Nielsen initially made her mark in rugby union with the Sydney University Football Club before switching to professional Rugby League.
Since then, her career has accelerated quickly.
After beginning her NRLW journey with the West Tigers, Nielsen now lines up for the South Sydney Rabbitohs.
Her selection in the NSW Universities side adds another milestone to an already impressive sporting résumé and future highlights her growing reputation across both rugby codes.
From everyone here at Sydney University Sport, wishing Claudia the very best in enemy territory against Queensland.
