Both recently represented New South Wales in the inaugural Women's State of Origin, while Clark has also represented both the Jillaroos and New Zealand.

Southwell, who is a Kotara Bears junior, was previously a goalkeeper in the Newcastle Jets squad at the age of 15 and played for the Junior Matildas and Young Matildas.

She was also a state cricket cricketer before transitioning to rugby sevens, representing Australia once more, before coming back to league.

"I never thought I reach this stage in rugby league at all," Southwell said.

At the beginning of the year, I only just made the CRL Newcastle team, then just made the Country team and was lucky to play well enough to be selected for the Blues.

"I didn't think it would happen this quick for me but I've loved every opportunity I've received and I'm very humbled to sign with the Dragons. I've come full circle now," she said.

Clark is one of the most experienced members of the Dragons squad after making her debut for NSW in 2006.

"It's been a long process for women's rugby league, in general, to be recognised and I'm very grateful for the opportunity and to be a part of the first NRL Women's Premiership," Clark said.

Yesterday, four local juniors Shakiah Tungai, Talia Atfield, Keeley Davis and Georgina Brooker put pen to paper.