Australian rugby league international Maddie Studdon has been dealt a significant personal and professional setback after being charged with domestic violence-related stalking, with the North Queensland Cowboys swiftly extinguishing speculation of a potential contract.
Court Hears of Ex-Partner's Terror as Bail Granted
Studdon, 31, spent Tuesday night in custody before appearing at a Sydney bail court on Wednesday. The court heard her former girlfriend is "terrified" the footballer would break into her home and kill her. Prosecutor Christopher Manning opposed bail, arguing Studdon "posed a risk" to the alleged victim.
Despite the prosecution's objections, Studdon entered not guilty pleas and was granted conditional bail after forfeiting $5000. The conditions include a ban on accessing any form of social media. She is next due to appear at Downing Centre Local Court on January 21.
Allegations of a 'Fixated' Campaign Following Breakup
Court documents allege Studdon became "fixated" after her three-year relationship ended, which coincided with her ex-partner starting a new romance with a man. Detectives claim the former Jillaroo, who played for the national side between 2014 and 2017, engaged in a campaign of harassment.
This allegedly included calling her ex from a private number 29 times, sending messages via email and bank transfers, and confronting her outside her home. Police state Studdon attempted to get into the woman's car and punched the vehicle's side as the victim called emergency services.
The content of the alleged messages was graphic and threatening. One read, "Check msgs, enjoy the d***," while others accused her ex of being a "cheater". Police also applied for an apprehended domestic violence order after Studdon allegedly made a 'throat-slitting' gesture towards her former partner.
Cowboys Issue Firm Denial Over Contract Claims
The legal blow was compounded by a professional rejection. Studdon's lawyer, Javid Faiz, told the court his client "had a possible contract" lined up with the North Queensland Cowboys in Townsville. This claim was categorically denied by the NRLW club within hours.
A Cowboys spokesman clarified that Studdon had merely attended the club's open trial in December, an opportunity available to all female players. "At no point following the trial has there been any discussion, internally or externally, regarding a contract for the player with our club, nor will there be in the future," the spokesman stated emphatically.
Studdon, who played one NRLW game for the St George Illawarra Dragons last year and has also been with Sydney Roosters, Parramatta, and Cronulla, now faces serious charges. She has been charged with stalking/intimidation with the intention of fear or physical harm (DV) and using a carriage service to menace, harass or offend. These follow a previous domestic violence conviction from 2015.
