Moutere women good to go

Moutere will be the region’s sole representative in the 2024 Tasman Trophy women’s rugby competition.

The Magpies, who combined with Renwick last season to form the Wairau Wahine side, will go it alone in 2024, having the numbers to re-align with the Spring Creek club.

The side will be led by a group of experienced players, all of whom have played over 40 matches for the club. Kelly Collins, Tallulah Tuffery, Hannah Gillespie, Niska Scott and Courtney Finau reached that milestone last season and bring a wealth of expertise and rugby know-how to the mix.

Other features of the side include the four-strong Huntley contingent, twins Jo and Di, plus Jo’s daughter Harley and cousin Phoebe and the return from a season with the Matatū in Super Rugby Aupiki of storming winger/loosie Fiali’i Solomona.

A couple of interesting newcomers join the ranks – halfback Madison Reid who has played in the NZ Defence Force side, and former Hawke’s Bay player Phoenicia Te Rito - both have moved south from the North Island.

The Magpies kick off their season with a home game on Sunday, April 28, against Waimea Old Boys.

Their other opponents in the three-round competition are Marist, last year’s champs, and Kahurangi.

Moutere women 2024: Courtney Finau, Niska Scott, Hannah Gillespie, Maiden Tupara, Kelly Collins, Bryher Jager, Aiesha Tepuia, Di Huntley, Harley Huntley, Ryhan Nadji, Tallulah Tuffery, Lana Mells, Maia Jones, Rebecca Stuart, Talia Craddock, Talia Jockey, Phoenicia Te Rito, Alofanga Palanite, Phoebe Huntley, Hopaea Hillman, Madison Reid, Fiali’i Solomona. Coaches: Luke Scott and Brodie O’Leary.