The Sydney University Women’s Rugby Club are well represented in the inaugural Buildcorp Super W competition. The club features seven players in the NSW Waratahs squad.
The Super W season is a five week round-robin competition with teams from Sydney, Canberra, Melbourne, Brisbane and Perth.
Round one saw the Waratahs topple Queensland 18-0, in an historic opening clash at Suncorp Stadium.
In round two the women played in a double-header, ahead of the NSW Waratahs clash with the Melbourne Rebels, in front of their home crowd at Allianz Stadium on Sunday.
In scorching conditions, the Waratahs claimed a 32-10 victory over the Western Force to remain undefeated after two rounds of Super W.
It was Sydney University’s Grace Hamilton who drew first blood for the Waratahs, going over for a try in the third minute. Captain and fellow club team mate, Ash Hewson then converted the try to put the home side up by seven early. Despite the Force equalising late in the first half, the Waratahs continued to pile on the points outscoring the visiting side 17-0 in the second half.
Sydney University and NSW Waratahs prop Tasmin Sheppard was pleased with her team’s efforts in round two. “We battled tough conditions and I think in the end our composure and fitness got us over the line,” Sheppard said.
“As the competition continues, I think the strength and depth in our squad will shine through.”
With all matches broadcast on Fox Sports, not only does the competition provide a pathway for women to compete at the highest level nationally, there has also been increased visibility and exposure for women’s rugby.
“Super W is an amazing opportunity for us to have a high level competition and raise the profile of women’s 15’s rugby. As the first NSW team to have this opportunity it’s important for us to embody the commitment and passion of the previous players and organisers who paved the way for this competition,” Sheppard added.
Sydney University’s NSW Rugby Women’s Representative Players: Iliseva Batibasaga, Nat Crow, Grace Hamilton, Ash Hewson, Fiona Jones, Kirrily Laws and Tasmin Sheppard.
Sydney University’s NSW Rugby Women’s Staff: Nicolai Morris (Head Strength and Conditioning) and Mel Tri (Head Physio)
