‘Family is extremely important to me’: Tamika Upton heads back to the Broncos after an incredible stint with the Knights

The Broncos have rocketed into NRLW favouritism after they signed four-time premiership winner Tamika Upton for the next three seasons after the superstar fullback was granted an early release from her contract with the Knights.

The bombshell request last month was granted by Newcastle on compassionate grounds, with Upton keen to return to Queensland to be closer to her family.

Upton has emerged as the best fullback on the planet, winning two titles with Brisbane back in 2019 and 2020 before she moved to the Knights where she won another two premierships.

Her speed, footwork and ball-playing ability helped her win the Dally M Medal in 2023, while she earnt the Karyn Murphy Medal in each of her two grand final wins with the Knights.

Upton’s arrival makes the Broncos premiership favourites for 2025, with Scott Prince’s side brimming with international stars like Ali Brigginshaw, Julia Robinson and Mele Hufanga.

The only question is where Hayley Maddick fits in after she had a brilliant year at fullback to lead the Broncos to the minor premiership.

“I’m very excited to return home to my family and in particular the club where I started, with all the girls that I started with – it’s really gone full circle,” Upton said.

“I’ve watched all the games closely and I’ve had some of my really good friends still playing for the Broncos, so I’ve even gone to Sydney to watch their games live when I’ve been able to. I’ve loved still supporting them while I’ve been away.

“Family is extremely important to me, so it means the world to be closer to them and near my sister living in Brisbane, and it’s just a quick flight home (to Rockhampton).

“I’m really excited to be working under Princey, I’ve got a few touch connections from back in the day and worked with him at the Auckland Nines when he was on staff – he’s really taken the Broncos program to the next level alongside Paul Dyer.

“It would be incredible to win a third premiership with the Broncos.”

Prince was equally excited to work with the Jillaroos and Maroons star again.

“Tamika’s footy does the talking, she is a unique talent which has transformed into the game’s best,” he said.

“She’s an exciting player to watch, a proven winner and will give us versatility.

“Her leadership qualities also shine through and will be a great fit for our culture.

“We can’t wait to welcome her back into our club and I look forward to working with her.”