Women’s game reaches new heights ahead of festival
AS the Townsville Festival of 7s fast approaches, Daniel Withers has declared this will be the biggest spectacle the concept has showcased.
The Townsville and District Rugby Union operations co-ordinator revealed that never had the festival had as many women’s teams set to take the field, with six already signed up and two more expected by the end of the week. That is still with time for nominations at the disposal of prospective competitors, with senior entries not closing until October 12.
Thus far Withers said 110 teams had been locked in across junior and senior divisions, with 150 the ideal target.
He said the growth of the women’s game would not be limited to the festival, with plans to expand further next year to capitalise on the wealth of coverage Rugby 7s has had in recent months.
“I think off the back of the Oceania 7s and the Wallabies, Rugby Championships and the Reds there’s a lot of buzz around town with rugby union,” Withers said.
“I’m really excited, the women’s game is really expanding and we’re looking to expand that in our club comp and our rep.
“It’s an exciting time for women’s rugby, definitely in the 7’s avenue where it’s an Olympic sport and with the Commonwealth Games around the corner.
“There’s plenty of talent in North Queensland, we know that, and we do have selectors coming from down south. We’re just excited to be running the tournament and see what the best players can do.”
Last year’s event dazzled onlookers, with the likes of Mendi
Blackhawks stars Kalifa Faifai Loa and Jaelen Feeney lacing up the boots.
Withers said he was unsure at this stage which drawcard names would feature, but had no doubt that on the back of a successful Queensland Country championships the best of the best would take to the field.
The senior competitions will take place on October 23 and 24, with junior grades throughout the month.