Harvey Norman NSW Womens Origin stars Ruan Sims and Simaima Taufa joined their Queensland Womens counterparts at North Sydney Oval to launch the inaugural Womens Holden State of Origin, one month out from the historic clash.
Looking to build upon their successes of their back-to-back Womens Interstate Challenge victories, captain Sims and the Harvey Norman NSW Womens Origin side will go head-to-head with the Maroons in a standalone fixture, on Friday 22 June.
"This is a game that we've all been looking forward to for months now," Sims said.
"Looking around North Sydney Oval today, I can't wait for the match and to experience the thrill that is State of Origin."
Sims on the 'Origin' Mentality
Having overseen victories over the Maroons in 2016 and 2017, respectively, True Blue and Harvey Norman NSW Womens Origin coach Ben Cross praised the elevation and evolution of the women's game.
"Origin matches always such a special occasion for all involved, and to see the Womens side play under the 'Origin' banner in 2018, it's very exciting," Cross said.
"The more exposure that the girls get to playing at a higher level of football can only be a good thing for the game. It's quite clear to see how the talent and skills of all of the athletes has rapidly improved."
What 'Origin' Means for the Womens Game
NRL Senior Manager of the Women's Elite Program, Tiffany Slater said the match would be a huge occasion as part of the 2018 women's rugby league calendar.
"State competitions are in full swing and before Origin next month, we have the Talent ID and National Championship both on the Gold Coast," Ms Slater said.
"There's no doubt that every player eligible for selection in either Origin team will be doing everything they can over the next few weeks to ensure they are part of all the action come 22 June at North Sydney Oval."
Tickets to the match are still available, with pre-purchased adult tickets $10 and free for those aged 15 years and under.
Tickets can be purchased via www.nrl.com/tickets
The 2018 Holden Women's State of Origin is supported by the New South Wales Government, via its tourism and major events agency, Destination New South Wales.
