Who is Caitlyn Halse? Wallaroo fullback set to create Australian rugby history against USA

16-05-2024
4 min read
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Caitlyn Halse will make history this Friday, when she runs onto the field as the youngest ever Australian player to debut for their national side, men's or women's. 

Halse, age 17, will debut for the Wallaroos against the United States this May, donning the no. 15 jersey to replace veteran fullback Lori Cramer.

Starting in what is a must-win game for her side, Halse also previously broke the record for youngest Super Rugby player in 2023, and is expected to be a regular in the team for years to come. 

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Who is Caitlyn Halse? 

Caitlyn Halse is a 17-year-old  fullback who is set to debut for the Wallaroos against the United States. 

In doing so, she will break Sharyn Williams' record for the youngest Australian debutant, a year after she broke the record for youngest Super Rugby debutant.

Halse hails from Campbelltown, where she first began life as a rugby league player for the Picton Magpies, before switching codes to join the Camden Rams, a move which has clearly paid off. 

She currently plays for Super Rugby team the NSW Waratahs, and will soon become the youngest ever Australian Test rugby player. 

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"I think it was just an overwhelming feeling," Halse told Rugby.com

"Obviously getting to play for your country's a massive thing in any sport but, it was obviously a big dream of mine since I was a little kid.

"It’s a surreal feeling getting the chance to play for your country but being one of the youngest to do it is a great feeling.

"Having that camp [in 2023] helped with my development and then that second year of Super helped to develop me even more."

How old is Caitlyn Halse?

Caitlyn Halse is currently 17 years old, and was born on the 18th of September, 2006. 

This will make her the youngest Australian Rugby debutant in history. 

When does Caitlyn Halse debut for Australia?

Halse will play her first game for Australia on Friday, May 17, when the Wallaroos take on America. 

The game will begin at 4:55 pm AEST, and will be played at AAMI Park in Melbourne.