Rugby league is tough – so to make a three-hour round trip, three times a week, to be battered, bruised and roughed up, has to be a sacrifice worth making.
Just ask the Leeds Rhinos’ trio of back-rower Zoe Hornby, utility back Sam Hulme and hooker Orla McCallion.
The trio all play for, and train with, Lois Forsell’s Rhinos side. All three travel from the outskirts of Newcastle, in north Tyneside, to do so.
What makes it all the more special is they are all long-time friends, “almost like sisters”, they chime, who have made the jump to elite sport together.
From Whitley Bay Barbarians to the Women’s Super League. To Grand Finals and Challenge Cup finals. To international recognition. To a bright future in women’s rugby league.
“We wouldn’t be doing it if we weren’t mates, it was all networked through that friendship,” Hulme told BBC Sport.
“It’s more fun doing it as a three, doing it all together and representing the community club here makes it even more worthwhile.”
Hornby added: “Travelling on your own can be a bit tedious but as you go through the highs and lows with each other throughout it, it’s pretty good having those two there.”
For all the enjoyment and great pride, the rising price of fuel has had an impact for the girls, who car share to provide company and save on costs.
They have no choice but to splash out to achieve their aims, but they are seeking sponsorship to help them continue their journey.
“Now I’ve been given this opportunity, the only thing that would stop me is the cost,” Hornby said.
“I’m a student, I don’t have a solid income other than my part-time job, because I’m trying to get a degree.
“To take that burden off all three of us in getting to Leeds, and with the international opportunities and the extra pressure to be there, it would be great if someone could help in any way.”
There is plenty of time on those car journeys to chew the fat, put the world to rights and get out their frustrations amongst friends.
“It’s really special because it’s not just rugby-wise, it’s personal-wise that we’ve all been through thick and thin together,” McCallion said.
“Whether it’s hand-holding you need, or a slap in the face, you know you’ll get it. We’re all different but we all want the same thing.
“It’s nice because I really genuinely can’t imagine doing this without them.”