Lionesses Spotlight: Rixt Aerts — from a family introduction to helping build the Dutch Lionesses

Rixt Aerts discovered rugby at a small club in Friesland, where six members of her family ended up playing together. Now, the Dutch Lionesses halfback is helping another close-knit group build something special in Rugby League.

Originally from Nij Beets, a small village in Friesland, Rixt now lives in Amsterdam. Away from rugby, she teaches children aged four to six at a primary school and enjoys travelling and exploring new places.

Her introduction to rugby came through an enthusiastic cousin and a small club in nearby Gorredijk.

“My cousin started playing at a very small rugby club called De Wrotters. There were hardly any youth players, but he was really enthusiastic about it, so I decided to join him.”

It soon became a family affair.

“My two brothers and two other cousins joined as well, so all six of us ended up playing rugby at the same club!”

From those beginnings, Rixt progressed to the rugby academy and later joined the NTC, moving to Amsterdam to play for RC Waterland.

Her introduction to Rugby League came through fellow Lioness Hiske Blom—and one invitation was all it took.

“Hiske asked me to join an open training session, and I was hooked from that moment on!”

A first match they would never forget

Rixt’s first international Rugby League experience took her to Greece with a group of players stepping into unfamiliar territory together.

“Our first match was in Greece, and none of us really knew what we were doing! We didn’t know the rules, had never played Rugby League before, and were incredibly nervous. But somehow, we managed to win!”

The result mattered, but sharing the experience helped establish a bond that remains central to the Lionesses.

“It was an amazing experience to share with that group of girls, and it really brought us together.”

Coach Brett’s enthusiasm also left a lasting impression.

“There was so much passion from Brett as well, and I really enjoyed experiencing a different style of rugby from what I was used to.”

For Rixt, those early memories are part of what makes representing the Lionesses special today.

“A lot of us have been there since the very beginning. Being out on the field in Greece, having absolutely no idea what we had got ourselves into, was such a bonding and special experience!”

From the front row to halfback

Rixt’s move into League brought a significant change in position. Having previously played in the front row in Rugby Union, she now enjoys the responsibility of organising the attack as a halfback.

“I love that the position allows me to think beyond just the next phase of play. I enjoy organising the team, getting everyone into the right positions, and spotting gaps in the opposition’s defence.”

It is a role that gives her the opportunity to read the game and help those around her—a contribution she also values as the squad continues to develop.

“We’re still in the early stages of our journey, learning and growing together. It’s really special to be part of this squad and to help build something from the ground up.”

Pride in the Dutch shirt

Asked what representing the Netherlands means to her, Rixt points to a moment before the match even begins.

“It makes me incredibly proud to represent my country. It’s a feeling that’s quite hard to describe, but singing the national anthem alongside the girls is something really special.”

This Saturday’s meeting with Scotland offers another opportunity to share that moment, with new faces joining the Lionesses squad.

“I’m really excited to run out onto the field with so many new girls. It’s also exciting to play against Scotland because they’re relatively new to Rugby League as well, so I think it’s going to be a really fun game!”

Her enthusiasm extends to encouraging others to discover the sport.

“There’s so much passion in Rugby League, and it’s an amazing way to develop your skills, even if you come from a Rugby Union background.”

“Being part of this squad and helping to grow Rugby League is such a great and fun experience. I’d definitely encourage anyone who’s curious to give it a go!”

An invitation from her cousin brought Rixt into rugby. Years later, an invitation from Hiske opened the door to League. Now she is helping make that same opportunity welcoming for the next group of Dutch Lionesses.

The Dutch Lionesses face Scotland on Saturday 17 October at Castricum Rugby Club, with kick-off at 14:00 local time.