Praise heaped on Bears ace Peters

RONA Peters has been hailed as “one of the most natural rugby league players” in the country.

The New Zealand and Queensland rep (pictured) is one of 52 women at an ongoing camp at the Sports Super Centre in Runaway Bay.

The camp doubles as a selection trial with the best 40 Australian-based players – including those who may represent other nations – to earn contracts and be divided among clubs in the inaugural NRL Women’s Premiership.

Selections will be finalised after the Commonwealth Championships this month.

“I was fortunate enough to coach her when I was coaching Queensland a couple of years ago,” coach Brad Donald said of Peters. “She is probably one of the most natural rugby league players that we would have in Australia and one of the biggest hitters. She is a good player and hopefully a program like this can help her see her potential.”

Bears teammate Tallisha Harden is also in camp while multi-sports stars Zahara Temara (rugby union) and Chelsea Lenarduzzi (shotput) were unable to attend.