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ARL introduce girls competition in 2017
28/11/2016
AUCKLAND RUGBY LEAGUE
ARL introduce girls competition in 2017
For immediate release
The Auckland Rugby League is introducing a pilot series of rugby league Nines for girls aged 13-17 years for the 2017 season.
The Nines will be played on Saturday's in line with the junior boys' competition, and will consist of an under 15's and under 17's grade.
As part of the inaugural competition, the Auckland Rugby League held their first muster day on Sunday November 27.
Held at Bay Roskill Rugby League Club, girls interested in playing rugby league were invited to join some of New Zealand's Kiwi Ferns in training skills and drills.
Kiwi Fern – and Vodafone Warriors community coordinator/ambassador – Georgia Hale also provided mouth guards and water bottles on the day.
Girls' grade committee member Caroline Matamua said the implementation of these grades is part of a 5 stage process.
"There has been a positive response in support of these much needed grades for Auckland and New Zealand Rugby League as a whole. It is also part of the NZRL World Cup legacy plan," said Caroline.
"Club support is vital and we are heartened by all the support and encouragement."
The girls' grade committee will continue to work with clubs to promote the competition through introductory trainings and muster days.
Auckland Rugby League will also promote the series together with the Downer NRL Auckland Nines ATEED club programme where six Auckland rugby league clubs will host NRL teams and neighbouring clubs in February 2017.
Stage 4 will see registrations and club teams finalised ahead of the 2017 season.
"A big thank you and well done to all those who turned up for the first muster day on Sunday."
"Many thanks to our Kiwi Ferns and representative players for being great role models and aspiring our young female players, Unaloto Sili and Bay Roskill Rugby League Club for the gear and hosting the day, and to the committee and club leaders for a job well done."
Girls Nines details:
• Two grades - Girls U/15 and U/17
• Will be played every Saturday and align with the 2017 junior boys competition
ENDS
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