As rugby league in the Great Lakes approaches its centenary celebrations, for the first time in the club's history the Forster Tuncurry Hawks have fielded an all-girls team in the boys' competition.
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The Priceline Pharmacy U/9 Girls made their debut on Saturday despite the threat of a second COVID-19-related shutdown.
It was never going to be enough to stop them.
As soon as the girls took the field the nervous giggles found in the warm-up were replaced by a team of tenacious, determined and talented footballers, yet they still smiled, giggled and enjoyed every moment of their return to community sport.
From the initial whistle the game quickly developed into a try-for-try contest.
The boys soon realised they were in for a tough contest.
Each swerving run and crunching tackle was met with great applause from the home and opposition supporters.
I'd like to again thank Eloise Adams and her mum Bianca for without these two we wouldn't be where we are now.
The ear-to-ear smiles that never left the faces of these rugby league debutantes will never be forgotten.
When asked for comment, NSW Rugby League female pathways manager, Kylie Hilder, was as proud as anyone could be.
Kylie said it was a fantastic opportunity for all girls in all codes to pursue whatever sporting dreams made them happy.
No longer do girls have to commit to sport just as a hobby or a healthy lifestyle choice, but they can use what is being offered as a serious career pathway should they have the work ethic and talent to be a successful rugby league participant both on and off the field.
As already mentioned, smiles and giggles were the order of the day but the biggest smile was reserved for coach Gary 'Grizzly' Adams.
For all of those familiar with Gary and his 'grizzly' exterior he could not hide the excitement and pride he felt for the girls and this particular game of rugby league.
Asked for his opinion after the dust settled, he said it was one of the best games he'd ever been involved in and a memory he would cherish.
That's saying something considering Gary's long and decorated career in rugby league spans nearly 75 years.
A wonderful debut girls, everyone at the Hawks and beyond is so proud of you.
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