In an exciting development for schoolgirl rugby, the iconic Waratah Shield, long a prestigious fixture in boys' school rugby, is now expanding its legacy to include an Under-17 Girls competition.
This historic move marks a significant step forward in promoting gender equality and participation in rugby across New South Wales.
The Waratah Shield, which has been a cornerstone of boys' rugby in NSW for over five decades, has seen some of the finest rugby talents emerge from its ranks.
Traditionally, it has been a fiercely contested competition that has nurtured and showcased the rugby skills of countless young men, many of whom have gone on to represent their state and country.
This year, thanks to the efforts of the NSW Positive Rugby Foundation and their "Rugby For Good" programs, along with support from The Rugby Club Foundation, the Waratah Shield will now embrace the growing enthusiasm for girls' rugby.
The foundation, known for its commitment to using rugby as a tool for positive social change, has been instrumental in launching this new opportunity for young women across the state.
The inaugural Waratah Shield U17 Girls competition will be a statewide event, inviting schools from all corners of NSW to participate.
The competition will start in a 10-a-side format, with plans to evolve into a full 15-a-side competition in the coming years, as the sport continues to grow in popularity and participation among young women.
Kerry Chikarovski, President of NSW Women’s Rugby Union, expressed her excitement about the new competition:
"This is a monumental moment for schoolgirl rugby in New South Wales. The Waratah Shield has a rich history in boys' rugby, and we are thrilled to see it now being offered to our young women. It’s a testament to the growing interest in the sport and the hard work being done to promote inclusivity in rugby."
Peter Murphy, Head of the NSW Positive Rugby Foundation, highlighted the broader vision behind this initiative:
"Our Rugby For Good programs are about more than just the game; they’re about providing opportunities, building confidence, and fostering a sense of community.
The launch of the Waratah Shield for U17 Girls is a significant step in ensuring that young women have the same opportunities to experience the benefits of rugby as their male counterparts."
Expressions of interest are now being called from schools who wish to enter a team. The response has already been overwhelmingly positive, with schools eager to be part of this new chapter in the Waratah Shield’s storied history.
This new initiative promises not only to elevate the standard of schoolgirl rugby but also to inspire the next generation of female rugby players in New South Wales.
The Waratah Shield U17 Girls competition is more than just a new event; it’s a powerful statement about the future of rugby in Australia.
