Rugby rep jersey’s for top U16, U18 girls in new event against Pasifika, Force opposites

Country and city players will vie for spots in two new state rugby teams set to play in a new series against a Pasifika team from NSW and a big name interstate visitor in 2024.

Waratahs players with young rugby fans. Picture: Supplied

Top female rugby teenagers will play for their state for the first time in a new event for NSW under 16 and under 18 girls - and their Pasifika opposites.

In a year of new tournaments, expanded competitions and inaugural NSW teams, the blow torch is being turned on the girls side of the game in NSW.

NSW is one of the strongest states in girls and women’s rugby with the majority of the Wallaroos team part of the Waratahs women’s program.

One of the most exciting innovations will be the selection of under 16 and under 18 NSW rugby teams for the first time.

The 16s and 18s state teams will be chosen from the annual City v Country competition to be played at Bathurst in 2024.

BLUES TEENS OUT TO PROTECT RECORD

Waratahs players with young rugby fans. Picture: Supplied

The Pasifika teams will be selected from the increasingly popular Pasifika Cup tournament now in its third year.

These NSW and Pasifika teams will then play a three-way tournament after Western Force, contacted NSW about playing opportunities for their junior girls.

“This will be an event played in December in Sydney,” said NSW Junior Rugby Union’s Ben Gregory.

“Hopefully this and other comps help build momentum for the girls to be playing a full season of rugby.

“It’s a good time to be a player.”

Action in the under 18 Girls Grace Hamilton Shield Game at City v Country. Picture: Julian Andrews

Sydney Juniors Rugby are also organising a 10-aside girls competition in the 12s, 14s, 16s and 18s age groups in another move designed to increase the numbers and standard of girls rugby.

And in another boost for the standard of the girls game, it is likely ACT teams will also attend the regional championships where the Sydney Juniors City and Country teams are selected.

Sydney’s Salote Fiefia at the City v Country gala last year. Picture: Julian Andrews

Last year Brisbane Juniors attended this event and are also likely to compete again in 2024.

The eligibility criteria for the incredibly popular state championships mid year is that players must have played a minimum of four club games to be able to play.

This new rule has been introduced in a bid to get commitment from players and clubs.

“We will also run an under 12 development gala like we did last year (at states) as well,’’ Gregory said.

“That is growing and will encourage help us get more depth in the girls ranks as well.”

the depth more as well,” great he said.

More from AMANDA LULHAM HERE

Originally published as Rugby rep jersey’s for top U16, U18 girls in new event against Pasifika, Force opposites