There’s no media manager in the NRL under more pressure than Penrith’s Melissa Seiler but the friendly, hard-working woman in league takes it all in her stride.
When Ms Seiler first joined the Panthers media department in November 2011, the former journalist said her initial fears about working in a male dominated environment were quickly put at ease by how friendly the players and coaching staff were around her.
“Obviously when I first started here coming into the club from the journalism side of things was a bit different,” she said.
“But once I got to know the players they were all friendly, hard-working guys who I respect and admire. Ivan Cleary is also an amazing coach, I feel very lucky to be working with him because he’s always very obliging and great with his time. We’ve just got a great group of players here who are very eager to reach out to the local community and that’s important.”
On a day-to-day basis Ms Seiler not only looks after Penrith’s media relations but is also in charge of their community department, which helps get the players out to important local events and mingle amongst the community.
“I’m always looking out for opportunities where we can support the community through school visits, supporting local charities, fundraising, as well as supporting Panthers on the Prowl and junior rugby league,” Ms Seiler said.
While Ms Seiler admitted her role can be very challenging at times, she encourages more women to get involved in the game.
“I would definitely encourage more women to think about different ways they can get involved with the game because there’s lots of different and fulfilling opportunities in rugby league that many women can do on and off the field,” she said.
