The popularity of girls playing rugby league is at an all-time high in Australia, with 2018 showcasing a Women’s NRL competition as well as Women’s State of Origin. Emu Plains JRLFC are proving to be a strong local club in the girl’s competition and they’re looking to grow this season.
“Last season, the club fielded an Under 16’s and Under 18’s team with more than 30 players, which was more than double the previous year. In 2019, we hope to have an Under 14’s, Under 16’s, Under 18’s and an Open
Women’s team. This is looking promising with our Under 16’s having limited spots left and our Open Women’s having portability with Mounties RLFC” said Joanne Vella, Women’s/Girl’s Co-Ordinator of Emu Plains JRLFC.
In 2018, the club held their first girl’s coaching clinic, which was headlined by Sydney Roosters Captain and Jillaroos player Simaima Taufa. Taufa also supported the girls throughout the year attending some of their training sessions and was a great inspiration to the girls. The Under 16’s hit capacity, which had never happened before. They attended the first Women’s State of Origin game and the Under 16’s went on to make the finals. Penrith junior rugby league introduced a girl’s only Sunday competition.
“We also introduced the first Emu Plains Girl’s playing jerseys and had girls chosen to represent in the Tarsha Gale Cup, Penrith League Tag and Lisa Fiola Cup” added Joanne.
They held a clinic last month with League of our Own that was hosted by 4 very talented female coaches and players. The successful event saw them welcome girls of all skill level, where they promoted the game to encourage more girls to play.
“We are looking forward to the girls further developing their skills and getting the same opportunities out of the game that the boys do, the increasing numbers with more and more girls joining the game and our portability with Mounties RLFC for our Open Women’s team giving girls/women who play for Emu Plains another pathway in the game” Joanne told the Emu and Leonay Gazette.
Emu Plains JRLFC are still taking players in all age groups. For more information, contact Joanne on 0410 439348 or visit www.emuplainsjrlfc.com.au.