After more than a year out due to a broken shoulder while playing for Bond University in the Uni 7s, Boyle is back at the top of her game.

She said it “had been a long time between games”, but time off the field had been more “mentally draining than anything” and she’s looking forward to getting back on the paddock.

It’s been almost two months of trials, drills and fitness testing that also involved regular trips to Brisbane, but Boyle was thrilled to be named for the roster on Wednesday. 

“To be picked in the final team to represent Queensland Reds is definitely an honour and I’m really looking forward to it,” she said. 

Almost a year on from shoulder surgery, Boyle said she had kept a positive outlook. 

“In the end it’s the big picture we have to look at,” Boyle said. “In a few years’ time, a year off won’t mean much.

“I knew it was going to be a long recovery, but stoked to finally get out on the field and start playing.”

She also praised the morale-boosting efforts of coaching staff, team physios and her team-mates for helping her get through.

The Super W is a new beast to Boyle, but she is no stranger to a tough contest after representing Australia as a Wallaroo in both the Four Nations and later the World Cup in 2017. 

She said at the time she wasn’t going to be a passenger and wanted to have an impact and it’s a work ethic she’s continued through the Uni 7s. 

Boyle said the Super W competition was a step in the right direction for Rugby Australia and the XV format was probably her favourite. 

“It’s the right move and the Super W competition is providing a pathway for females aiming to represent Australia in the XV format,” she said. 

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“I prefer playing that format and enjoy work around the ruck and set pieces.

“I’m not fast enough for 7s, but still enjoy playing,” she said with a laugh. 

The back rower said she was pumped to play and “will be looking to better my game individually on and off the field”.

After missing the debut Super W season in 2018, Boyle said the competition was looking fierce, but she will join with eight capped Wallaroos in the Reds’ 30-strong line-up. 

“The teams are looking sharp and have all stepped it up a notch from 2018,” she said.

“NSW will always be a tough game so I’m probably looking forward to playing them the most.”

Now the 21-year-old has just resumed her Sport Management studies at Bond University and said it was nice to “get back into a routine with work, study and training.”

The Cobargo export said life on the Gold Coast had also been treating her well.

“But I do miss daylight savings,” she said with a laugh.