Following a tremendous season in 2006-2007, culminating in qualification for BUSA play-offs and an outstanding victory in the annual Varsity match against arch-rivals Bristol University, the UWE ladies are confident of bigger and better things this year. The club had a very successful recruitment drive at Fresher’s fair, signing up new players who are already making an impact in training sessions. This has been reflected in the team selection for the first game of the season.
Captain and coaches have deliberated over the team selection, and have decided on a team that is capable of pulling off a fast-paced, skillful and entertaining game, accomplishing the UWE philosophy of ‘sexy rugby’.
Club Captain, Beth Hawke commented, “The girls have worked tremendously hard in training over the past few weeks, and I am proud of their attitude and enthusiasm. Selection has been tough, with a number of people really pushing for places in the starting lineup. Plymouth will provide us with some tough opposition, they are an unknown entity for us, so we need to go out all guns blazing.” Coach Jack Russell added, “The Plymouth team will be tough opposition to crack and it is likely to be a very physical encounter. The UWE girls are ready for the challenge though, and are looking forward to building on last season with another opportunity to show their skills.” A powerful front row combines mobility, experience and strength in the shape of Tamsyn ‘Pogs” Kinver, UWE ‘fresher’ Sara ‘Mongrel’ Nowak, and Jess ‘Gypo’ Lamb. Locking out the scrum are Kirsty ‘Perfect’ Johnstone and Hannah ‘Junior’ Pert , while Welsh international skipper, Beth Hawke takes her place at Number 8, partnered by UWE stalwart, Rachel ‘Spacca’ Fisher and Shellie ‘Dave’ Norton in the back row. Jess Beech has a chance to show her talents at scrum half following the graduation of former UWE Captain, Laura Hale; and will partner the talented Darel Poole in the half-backs. The three quarter line has been selected with pace and flair at its heart. The centre partnership of Emma ‘Bleeder’ Haspineall and Zoe ‘Star’ Starr with speedsters Layo ‘Princess’ Aromire and Jen ‘Grouse’ O’Neill on the wing, complemented by Laura ‘Greggsy’ Gregory at full back, completing the UWE line up.
Old girl Angela ‘Newps’ Sheppard takes her place on the bench in readiness to make an impact and is joined by Fresher’s Hollie Oxley, Bec Reid, Amy ‘Cornish’ Pope, Gail Hodgkinson, Kirsten Shaw, Vanessa ‘Janner’ Mo and Bea Haynes, who are rewarded with their first call-ups to the squad and are named on the bench.
ESSENTIAL INFO: Meet Time: 10:00 – Frenchay Campus Bus Stops Please make sure you are all paid up and registered, otherwise you CAN NOT PLAY!!!!