Harvey Norman NSW Women’s coach Andrew Patmore has predicted this year’s Holden Women's State of Origin could surpass the inaugural clash last year with the skill in the women’s game having gone to another level.
The Holden Women’s State of Origin was officially launched on Wednesday 22 May with the match to be played at North Sydney Oval on Friday 21 June as part of a double-header that will also include an under-18s Women’s match between NSW and Queensland.
The inaugural Holden Women’s State of Origin was held at North Sydney Oval last year and proved a huge success with almost 7000 fans turning up to watch NSW seal a thrilling 16-10 victory after centre Isabelle Kelly scored the matchwinner in the final five minutes.
Having replaced Ben Cross as the Harvey Norman NSW Women’s coach this year, Patmore said he was looking forward to seeing the players showcase their skills having already been involved with them in training camps.
“The skill and fitness level of the players has gone to another level and as a result the style of play is continuing to improve,” Patmore said.
“There are a whole range of skills that have developed and made the game even more attractive. Their general fitness, and how tough they are, is amazing to watch.”
Patmore said it was also exciting for the Under 18s women’s match to be added to the State of Origin program this year. NSW Women’s Under-18s player Maddison Weatherall, and NSW Women’s Origin players Kezie Apps and Corban McGregor, were all at North Sydney Oval on Wednesday 22 May to help launch the double-header.
“Three years ago there was no elite girls rugby league competition for this age group,” Patmore said.
“There has been a massive improvement in that time and it has broadened the base of quality players to choose from for the women’s premiership and Origin in general.”
Holden Women's State of Origin tickets are available here with pre-purchased adult tickets $10 and those under 15 years free.
