The Women’s Rugby League Competition, along with the men’s competition, will resume this week after a break over the Easter weekend.

The last match prior to the break between the Titikaveka Bulldogs and Arorangi Bears, was held on March 26 at Victoria Park.

The Bulldogs maintained their undefeated run in the competition with a final score of 18-4.

Comments made by spectators on the day highlighted that the level of skill amongst the women as well as the speed of the game has improved.

Review of video footage of all games played so far indicates a steady improvement, in terms of knowledge and understanding of the game, as well as fitness, by all three competing teams.

This week (on Friday), the Arorangi Bears will be taking on the Tupapa Panthers who defeated them in their last face off. This will be the final match of round two, with one more round remaining.

Hosted by the Bears at Raemaru Park, this will be an interesting match especially with the loss of a key player from each team for the rest of the season – Daimzel Rongokea for the Bears and Tiare (Chaz) Makara for the Panthers – who have both been awarded rugby contracts in New Zealand.

Both players were impressive in the Cook Islands Games Rugby 7s Competition as well as the Cook Islands Rugby League 9s Competition earlier this year, and have continued to be an asset for their respective teams throughout the League 13s season.

Although the two have been awarded rugby contracts, the Women in Rugby League are very proud of their accomplishment and success. This is a huge win not only for them and their families, but for women in rugby and rugby league. This has certainly inspired our local women, and is only the beginning of providing opportunities for women in all aspects of rugby and rugby league.

The Bears versus Panthers clash will be the first match that the women’s division will be playing at their own venue. The Avatiu Nikao Eels and Titikaveka Bulldogs reserves match also to be played tomorrow will be held at The Swamp.

The crowd can expect continued improvement amongst the players of both the Panthers and Bears in the women’s match.

In terms of development, official/linesman training is also being provided to interested female players (and others who are interested) as an opportunity to learn the skill of officiating a rugby league game, as well as to further understand the rules of the game.

At the last match between Titikaveka and Arorangi, Tupapa provided two players to learn and assist with officiating duties. This weekend, Titikaveka will be doing the same as they are on bye.

Meanwhile Aitutaki Sharks will take on Ngatangiia Matavera Sea Eagles in the premier men’s clash this afternoon at 4.45pm at The Swamp.

The Sharks defeated defending champions Sea Eagles 20-17 in the catch-up match last week.

• Maruia Willie