For most Year 12 students, the school week revolves around assignments, exams and finding time to relax. For 17-year-old Georgie Hayes, it's textbooks stuffed into a rugby bag and hours behind the wheel as she makes the 250-kilometre journey from Wagga Wagga to Canberra to pursue her burgeoning Super Rugby Women's career with the ACT Brumbies.
Born in Mudgee and now playing her club rugby with the Wagga Waratahs after starting at the Tumut Bullants, Hayes first picked up a rugby ball at just seven years old. Since then, her fearless running game, elusive footwork and infectious energy have established her as one of regional New South Wales' brightest young talents.
Her weekly routine is anything but ordinary. After finishing classes, Hayes packs the meals she prepared the night before and heads to Canberra for training before returning home. Midweek often means another trip south, sometimes staying overnight to cut down on the travel before another training session the following day—all while keeping on top of Year 12 studies.
"Yeah, it's been a busy year juggling Year 12 and Super W," Hayes said.
"My school has made it easier for me. If I need any extra help, they're willing to sit down with me, do some extras if I need in my studies... which is really helpful."
"Being able to travel and get to training was the easy part because my family is very supportive. Mum and Dad have given me a little Volkswagen Golf, and I've put probably over 100,000 kilometres on it."
Those sacrifices were rewarded earlier this season when Hayes made her Super Rugby Women's debut in Canberra against the Waratahs before earning her first starting opportunity at fullback against the Fijian Drua in Lautoka.
The rapid rise is another milestone in a journey that has been driven by confidence, hard work, and a willingness to challenge herself.
"The debut was definitely an exciting experience. I was lucky enough to have the support of my local footy club, the Wagga Waratahs, and my family and friends who all surprised me on the day,” Hayes said.
"I think the dream came true, honestly I couldn't have asked for a better day. It exceeded my expectations, that's for sure."
Standing at 161cm, Hayes is often one of the smallest players on the field, but her size has never defined the way she plays. Her speed, agility, and ability to beat defenders one-on-one have already caught the attention of teammates and supporters alike.
Despite her impressive start to life in Super Rugby Women's, Hayes knows she's only scratching the surface of what she hopes to achieve in the game.
"I definitely want to pursue rugby union and go as far as I can. Definitely the dream is Wallaroos. To be able to play for them would be a dream come true."
"I am just focusing on what I am achieving now with Brumbies because without the support of Brumbies I wouldn't be here.”
Now, as the Brumbies prepare for their final home match of the 2026 Super Rugby Women's season, Hayes is focused on continuing to learn and making the most of every opportunity.
Now it's time for the home crowd to get behind one of the Brumbies' brightest young talents. Hayes and her teammates return to Viking Park on Sunday, July 5, to take on the Western Force in their final home match of the 2026 Super Rugby Women's season. Kick-off is at 2:05pm, with the Brumbies eager to sign off in front of their fans with a memorable performance. Buy tickets today!
