The Taniwharau Women’s Premier Team has made a remarkable impact since joining the Auckland competition, showcasing their resilience, skill, and unyielding spirit on the rugby league field.

Hailing from Huntly, the team’s commitment to competing at a higher level has brought them face-to-face with some of the best teams in the region, and they have risen to the challenge. A standout moment this season was their unforgettable televised match against the Otara Scorpions. In what seemed like an insurmountable situation, with Otara leading 20 points to nothing, Taniwharau dug deep, launching an extraordinary comeback to end the game in a draw. Fea Malisi of the Otara Scorpions expressed her admiration for the Taniwharau team;

“They are a truly incredible team. They might not be the biggest on the field, but when they run the ball, they run with a determination that rivals any team out there.” 

Her words reflect the respect Taniwharau has earned from their competitors—not just for their skill, but for their relentless energy and passion for the game. Mel Henry, Manager of the Taniwharau Women’s team, shed light on the journey the team has embarked on since joining the Auckland competition. "It all started in 2021," she recalls. " We saw limited opportunities for the girls to compete at the level they were capable of, so when an opportunity in Auckland arose, we just thought we'd give it a crack. Despite the logistical challenges, including coordinating travel and balancing the commitments of our players—many of whom are mums—we managed to participate successfully, thanks to the support from our community and club." Henry also reflected on the significance of competing in the Auckland competition.

"The exposure has been incredible, especially with live streaming allowing our whānau who couldn't come up to watch the games.” 

As they continue to compete in the Auckland competition, their story serves as an inspiration—not just to their fans, but to the entire rugby league community. Their success is not just measured in wins and losses, but in the spirit and heart they bring to every game. "Taniwharau’s hard work and determination really show what rugby league is all about," says Viggo Rasmussen, GM Football at ARL. "It’s not just about the scoreboard; it’s about the passion and effort they bring every time they play. Their journey shows how commitment and support can make a team truly special in our competition."

Article added: August 14th, 2024