RUGBY GIRLS SET FOR 2018 LAUNCH
Eight clubs to do battle
Darling Downs female rugby continues its climb this weekend when the Emilee Cherry Cup kicks off for 2018.
Eight clubs will take part in this year’s Downs Rugby women’s sevens premiership as female competitors continue their push into once maledominated sport arenas.
This season’s competition is the next step in the development of female rugby across the Darling Downs.
USQ, Toowoomba Bears, UQ Gatton, Warwick, Goondiwindi, Condamine and Dalby were all a part of last year’s inaugural Downs Rugby women’s competition in what was viewed as a “trial” season.
Those clubs have been joined this year by Toowoomba Rangers as officials look to up the competition focus following its 2017 success.
Downs Rugby general manager Mitch Simpson said the future of women’s rugby looked bright with two junior age groups adding to its numbers in their competition launch on Friday night.
“The women’s sevens competition kicked off last year in what was something of a pilot season for the sport,” Simpson said.
“But that will go to the next level this season after last year’s response with a more structured season planned to cater for the competition growth.
“Our eight clubs from last year are returning in what is a good spread of city and country participation.
“They’ll be joined this season by Toowoomba Rangers who are the new kids on the block and a real boost for the competition.”
Women’s matches will be played fortnightly with the eight teams split into groups of four playing at two designated grounds.
The four teams play each other on the day, giving them three games of football each round.
“All fixtures are played for competition points with the season played in unison with the Risdon Cup right up to grand final day in September when the women’s season decider will also be played,” Simpson said.
“Last year we had about 140 women and girls participating, which we are looking to grow.
“We also have our youth competition starting on Friday night.
“It features under 13 and under 15 age groups with five teams of girls in each.”
Women’s games on Saturday will be played at Gold Park and UQ Gatton.