THE Women's National Championships kick-off in Burleigh this week and after their first training session together, NSW Country coach Matt Parish is hoping his side can showcase the talent coming from regional NSW.
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Parish was impressed by the standard of football at Penrith Stadium on Saturday and is excited to see what the team, featuring Gerringong's Ruan Sims, will produce, especially in their first match against the Australian Defence Force.
"I've been really impressed with their enthusiasm, commitment and the skill set from of a lot of them," Parish said.
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"It is a fantastic opportunity for the 11 players selected from our Country Championships to showcase their talent and learn from some of the best rugby league players in the country like Ruan Sims and Kezie Apps.
"We've got a combination of young and experienced players so it's a good mix and I'm sure they will benefit from playing alongside one another."
Despite big names from last year's championship-winning team like Sam Bremner and Isabelle Kelly not appearing on the roster, Parish is confident in the crop of players he has selected this year.
"We've lost a couple of players but as one door shuts another one opens and we've got the nucleus of a very good team," he said.
"I'm excited to see the girls take the field to defend their title and most importantly, make the most of their opportunity."
Parish's players to watch throughout the Championship include 17-year-old Riverina Bulls representative Tess Staines and her team mates Takilele Katoa and Emma Hickey, along with CRL Newcastle recruits Simone Smith and Bobbi Law.
The Women's National Championships will be held at Pizzey Park, Burleigh from May 30-June 2.