Published On: 26 March, 2022Categories: General

Saavanah Bourke Reports

An exciting crop of up and coming Tweed Seagulls will be on show for the Gold Coast Airport Open Women’s team in Round 1 of the BMD Premiership.

The Seagulls kick off their season at home against the North Queensland Gold Stars on Sunday.

Despite missing more than a dozen key players to the NRLW, head coach Spencer Taplin says it’s an opportunity for players in the Under 19s squad to step up.

“I’m excited. Having those girls away this weekend has really opened the door for a few of our Under 19s to experience and be exposed to the game at a higher level,” Taplin said.

Both the Open Women’s and Under 19s have been working closely together during pre-season, and Under 19s coach Lambros To’Omaga who will be assisting Taplin moving into the BMD Premiership season.

But Taplin says they won’t be completely lacking experience, veteran and captain Rona Peters will be steering the ship out on the field.

“She’s been around the track long enough to know what she’s doing out there.

“I have the utmost confidence in her. She’s been doing a great job mentoring the younger girls.”

North Queensland will also be missing a handful of key players, but Taplin says that’s the least of his worries.

“I haven’t really spent any time indulging on the Gold Stars to be honest.

“This weekend will be a benchmark for us to see where we are at and get a gauge on how the other teams go as well,” he said.

Seagulls CEO Matt Francis praised the culture of the squad, saying it was an exciting time for the club with the growth of the NRLW competition providing clear pathways for players.

“The strength of our club is its people. The amazing group of coaching and support staff have created a positive and welcoming culture that augers well for the future.

“I also thank the support of our sponsors, including Gold Coast Airport and AirPhysio who have been instrumental in ensuring our women’s teams are ready for the coming challenges.”

 

Team List

  1. Bridget Hoy
  2. Brooke Saddler
  3. Chantelle Holloway-Samuels
  4. Paremo Gallagher
  5. Isabella Lee
  6. Alani Sullivan
  7. Chantay Ratu
  8. Carly McGrath
  9. Lailee Phillips
  10. Jelena Betham
  11. Jadene Kini
  12. Serena Martin
  13. Rona Peters
  14. Matekino Kahukoti-Gray
  15. Faith Tutauha
  16. Elissabeth Ross
  17. Josina Parekura

 

Match Info

Sunday 27th March, Piggabeen Sports Complex, Tweed Heads

Kick-off: 1:00pm [QLD]

Streaming via QPlus.tv (subscription required)

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