The Canberra Raiders NRLW squad rolled into Wagga Wagga today with players conducting a special clinic with school students at Bolton Park this morning (Friday 5 July).
The clinic allowed Raiders' players to interact directly with students keen to learn the finer points of playing rugby league from some of the country's best players.
Coach Darrin Borthwick said it was important for the Raiders to reach out to regional communities.
"Wagga Wagga was the first name that popped up when we were planning to visit regional areas," Coach Borthwick said.
"And it's important they see in person great players they look up to."
Co-Captain Zahara Temara said events like this clinic were important for students thinking about playing the game as they get older.
"I wish I'd had opportunities like this when I was younger," Co-Captain Temara said.
Deputy Mayor of Wagga Wagga Cr Amelia Parkins said no one should be surprised so many young children turned out for the clinic this morning.
"It's important for girls to see women from the Riverina playing in the match tomorrow, and being able to practice with them was a brilliant opportunity."
The clinic marked the start of a huge two days for women's rugby league in the region, culminating with the Raiders taking on reigning NRLW premiers, the Newcastle Knights, at McDonalds Park tomorrow (Saturday 6 July).
Cr Amelia Parkins said the event marked the continued association between the Raiders, and the Wagga Wagga region, where Wagga Wagga hosted for NRL games four times over five years.
"This special relationship not only fosters the game and enhances Wagga Wagga as a major sports venue but is also great for the economy and boosts local businesses."
Entry to the big game, kicking off at 2pm, is free, and three Riverina players will be on the field during the main event.
Before the main game, three female Junior games will be played, starting at 10.30pm, 11.30pm and 12.30pm respectively. The first two games feature Turvey Park vs Wagga Brothers, and the third game features Group 9 vs Group 20.
Cr Amelia Parkins said it was wonderful to see this level of women's sport taking to our fields.
"Not only does it help promote women in rugby league, but it also shows young women it's possible to achieve your NRLW dream."
PARKING AND ACCESS TO McDONALDS PARK
Traffic parked in Northern end of precinct will be directed to exit via Copland Street.
Traffic parked in Southern end of precinct will be directed to exit via Kooringal Road.
Walkways will be set up to guide pedestrians safely from carparks to the venue entry.
Traffic control workers will be on the internal crossings to assist Junior players and families crossing the road between Parramore Park and McDonalds Park.
