It confirmed her status as the most damaging forward in the women’s game and was the cherry on top of what’s been an incredible season from the Bega product who makes a 10-hour return trip from her home on the far South Coast to play each week for Helensburgh in the Illawarra League.

“Words can’t really describe the feeling,” Apps said.

“It’s definitely a great achievement and I feel really honoured and privileged that I was able to pick up the award. It's still sinking in for me really but I am very proud.”

“It definitely makes all the time in the car worth it. Still now when I think back about when I started, going into it all new and not knowing what to expect it really blows me away.

“No way in the world I have thought all this would be happening.”

It was just reward for Apps who was named best on ground following the women’s State of Origin clash in July in which NSW broke Queensland’s astonishing 17-year stranglehold 8-4.

It was something the NSW Rugby League was keen to recognise with all members of the Blues team  given commemorative rings to mark their achievement. 

“I’ve got it on right now, I can’t stop staring at it,” Apps said.

“For [NSWRL CEO] Dave Trodden to organise the rings for us was amazing.

“It’s been a big season and a lots happened in the last 12 months and it’s exciting to see in just the next couple of years where it’s going to go.,” Apps said.