Rugby: Waikite women calling for new players

The Waikite women's rugby team, who won the Baywide premier competition last year, are on the hunt for new players. Photo / File

The Waikite women's rugby team are putting the call out for new players ahead of the 2018 season.

The defending Baywide premier champions have been left scrambling after losing eight of the players who lined up for last year's final to a combination of work commitments, injury, overseas contracts and pregnancy.

Waikite captain Eliza Stephens said the club would hold a muster at 12pm tomorrow,at the Waikite rugby grounds on Bellvue Rd, and any women interested in giving rugby a go were welcome.

"We're going to have a light run around and a barbecue, a meet and greet really. We have new players every year, brand spanking new who have never played before, and we're ready to turn them into players," Stephens said.

The team also has several players with a wealth of experience who are willing to help and mentor any new players.

"We've played in the final for the last five years, out of those five we've won three, it's a very proud history. We have players who have represented New Zealand and Bay of Plenty in the past who are more than happy to offer advice.

Yaaah rugby season is fast approaching. All are welcome 💛🖤

Posted by Waikite Women's Rugby on Sunday, 25 February 2018

"It's a family-oriented team as well, the majority of us are mothers, and we have a strong culture within our team. Anyone who comes to the muster won't be locked in for the season - if they come and check it out and decide they're not keen, that's fine. If they are keen we can go from there," she said.

Stephens said playing rugby was empowering.

"It gives them confidence for all aspects of life and we've turned players who have never played before into great players. It's good for women to be involved in any team sport, not just rugby."

For more information about the muster or playing for the club call 021 027 00366.