Historic Launch of Group 2 Women’s Tackle Competition
In amongst all the big wins, upsets, and star performances from round one, a slice of rugby league history was created as the Group 2 women’s tackle competition took place for the first time over the weekend. The Nambucca Roosters and Woolgoolga Seahorses had the honor of playing the first-ever game at Coronation Park, with the Seahorses prevailing 18-4 in what was a huge celebration for rugby league in the area.
Woolgoolga captain-coach Sharon McGrady expressed her excitement about kicking off the first-ever women’s tackle game, stating, “It was a great showdown, kicking off the first-ever women’s tackle game. It was also an exciting feeling to finally have tackle footy happening. I know a lot of women have waited a long time for this.”
Despite Nambucca’s loss in the match, Roosters coach Larissa Chandler was proud to be part of the historic game, saying, “It was great to be part of a historic game for Nambucca. I put it to the girls that we were playing a very special game and they went out and did the job I asked them to do, which was to play for each other, the club, and with their heart.”
The bumper crowd full of anticipation greeted the teams, and McGrady mentioned that there were nerves initially, but once the players hit the field, they switched on and performed exceptionally well. The excitement wasn’t just limited to the players, as McGrady noted, “Not only were the women excited but the crowd was so excited as well. They were cheering and making sound effects to the big hits, the line breaks, and just some of the plays the girls were pulling off.”
The establishment of the six-team Group 2 tackle competition marks a watershed moment for women’s rugby league in the region, providing local opportunities for female players who previously had to choose between moving away or playing league tag. McGrady, who had to move to Sydney to play in the NRLW, highlighted the significance of the new competition, stating, “I know a lot of girls who have had to move away even to play at a local level.”
As the competition progresses, there is a sense that the women’s game as a whole will be the biggest winner, with Chandler emphasizing the importance of having fun and enjoying the game regardless of the score. The successful launch of the Group 2 women’s tackle competition signifies a new era for rugby league in the region, opening doors for female players to showcase their skills and passion for the game.