Howard, who currently plays for CRL Newcastle in the NSW Women's Premiership, helped guide NSW Country to National Championships victory earlier in the year alongside a number of fellow Dragons players.

Strong – a local Berry-Shoalhaven Heads junior – is glad her return to rugby league in 2018 for the Corrimal Cougars has paid dividends while Karpani is a rugby union convert.

Dragons coach Daniel Lacey is excited about the playing group for the clubs inaugural season.

"We have succeeded in what we wanted to do in the fact that we wanted to look towards the future," Lacey said.

"We wanted to look locally – which is why we will have six young juniors in the squad – as well as turn to some experienced and versatile players to be a part of the squad.

"There are plenty of players there who are on the up and haven't hit their peak yet so our plan is to help them reach their best. With the five-year license in the Women's Premiership, we're definitely looking towards the future.