Rugby league
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Illawarra Rugby League is hoping to unearth the next Sam Hammond when it hosts a ‘‘come and try’’ day for females looking to get a foot in the game this weekend.
The local women’s league has produced four current Australian representatives, including the Jillaroos’ own Billy Slater in gun fullback Hammond.
The association is hoping to expand its female competition in the future and Sunday’s crash course is designed to offer women an easy pathway into rugby league.
‘‘It’s an opportunity for girls who might be interested in rugby league to come along and have a try before committing to a club,’’ Illawarra Rugby League manager Chris Bannerman said.
‘‘There will be skill drills, some defensive work demonstrated by the NRL development team.
‘‘They will take part in some nines games to get a feel for the game.
‘‘Any girls that are interested in signing up can link up with a club and commit to playing in 2015.’’
Bannerman is confident the international game between the Jillaroos and New Zealand in November increased interest in women’s rugby league throughout the Illawarra.
The local women’s competition has even welcomed its first female coach on board this season as Alysha Jannsen takes charge at Berkeley.
Sunday’s ‘‘come and try’’ day will involved NRL development officers running participants through basic drills, then a series of nine-a-side games.
The action kicks off at 2pm at Ziems Park in Corrimal.
Any females turning 16 this year or older are welcome to attend.