News

The Women’s 10-a-side grade gets underway on Saturday with local clubs Weymouth and Patumahoe entering the Auckland competition.

Weymouth open their campaign – the first for the new-look side – on the road at Waitemata Park against Waitemata.

“Weymouth ‘Fusion’ Women’s team are the new kids on the block for 2023,” said team manager Julia Chong-Nee. “Our club and supporters have embraced us and we are proud to represent.

“Aiga/whanau/fāmili is key. To understand family is to understand how to protect each other on and off the field.”

Patumahoe will host College Rifles at Patumahoe Domain in their first match of the season.

“We have a lot of players who are in their first season, which is awesome,” coach Anthony Campbell told Counties Sports Hub. “We'd like to build a team that's competitive and enjoys playing footy with each other, make top 6 pool, win competition.”

Patumahoe will rely heavily on co-captains Rose Perry and Kaylia Fraser, who are their most experienced players and have been with the team since 2019 when they first started.

Campbell has nominated a couple of younger players to keep an eye on this season.

“New to us this year after leaving Rosehill College; young lock Leah Thorby is fast becoming a leader in our forward pack alongside our other young lock Chloe Baird,” he said. “Leah is extremely hardworking and skilful. 

“At first-five Tuari Reid steers the team around the field. She comes from a league/flag background, loves attacking and has a great kicking game.”

In Coleman Shield Premier Women’s action, Counties Sports Hub Shield holders Manurewa will get arguably their toughest test of the season so far when they host North Shore at Mountfort Park.

Pukekohe will be searching for their first win of their 2023 campaign when they travel north to face Silverdale at Silverdale War Memorial Park.

Papakura head to Cox’s Bay Reserve to play Ponsonby.