Rugby league is no longer boys only

THE female coaching team for Newtown Junior Jets under-11 squad believe women bring passion, knowledge and equality to rugby league.

Women in League

THE all-female coaching team for Newtown Junior Jets under-11 squad believe women bring passion, knowledge and equality to the predominantly male-dominated sport of rugby league.

Karen Sassine, Chantelle Blackburn, Erin Turner and Eget Milios led their team to a premiership last year.

Three of the women have sons playing in the team. Mrs Sassine said the boys "had a bit of giggle" when the female coaching team first came together but encourages more women to get involved in the game.

"It is my opinion that women bring a different dynamic to the game," she said.

“Women are under-represented in leadership and decision-making roles in rugby league and sport in general,” she said.

“Whether you give it a go as an official or wanting to give back to the community as a volunteer in the canteen, these are valuable contributions by women that break the barriers for a predominately male-dominated sport.”

Ms Blackburn said: "Our boys respect us as women and can see that gender doesn't stop you from doing something that you enjoy."

The annual Women in League round was held at the weekend to recognise and celebrate the important roles women play in rugby league from juniors clubs to the NRL.