MINORITY of women and girls are playing rugby in Honiara as the sport shakes off its exclusively male image.
Over the years, the Solomon Islands Rugby Union Federation (SIRUF) had initiated training programs and competitions to encourage more female into the male dominated sport in the country. They are keen to promote the sport in order to develop and attract new woman participants.
Anna Leo is one of the new generations of female rugby players who have the passion in playing rugby and she hopes other women might follow her lead. Leo is currently playing for the Royal Blues in the domestic women’s rugby competition.
“I would like to encourage more young women and girls to play rugby because it promotes gender equality and builds more self confidence especially in male dominated sports like rugby and soccer.
“Regardless of age and fitness level, no doubt rugby is a great sport that can also be enjoyed by women. I believe most women see rugby as men’s game, but they do not know the fitness and healthy benefit they can receive from playing rugby.
“There is nothing wrong with women and girls playing rugby. This is a great experience; the social aspect in my team is just wonderful. I think more women should play rugby; there is an opportunity for everyone at every age and I wish that all women and girls would see sport as one of the important activities that should be fitted into their daily activities in life, she told Solomon Women Sports.
Anna is one of the mothers in Honiara who has the opportunity to play rugby at domestic level, something that she is passionate about.
“I have been playing rugby since 2007, when it was initially introduced to females in Solomon Islands. Ever since that year, I always loved participating in trainings and competitions held for female rugby players in Honiara.
“I have seen a lot of personal changes to my physical health and fitness when I continued with my passion and commitment with rugby. However, if I had any opportunity to play in future regional and international rugby competition, it would be great occasion and a lifetime dream because I still want to gain more experience and knowledge about the sport, she added.
Anna also acknowledged her immediate family and coaches for their positive support in her passion as a rugby player.
“I am very happy and proud of my husband and our three children for their respect, commitment and support to see me succeed in my passion for rugby.
“I would also like to thank my two Tongan coaches for developing my confidence as well as knowledge and skills about rugby. Before I started playing, I didn’t have any knowledge about rugby; now, I am full of confidence and able to shout all the time on the field, she added.
