Maori Women to Take on Europes Best at Rome 7’s

Maori Women to Take on Europes Best at Rome 7’s

The Aotearoa Maori Women’s 7’s Team has accepted an invitation to participate at Roma 7’s International tournament on 4th and 5th June, and will compete against the best players and teams in Europe.

“This is a unique and wonderful opportunity for our talented young sportswomen to not only compete on the international stage, but to continue to develop their skills, particularly as sevens will become an Olympic sport in 2016”, said Aotearoa selector/coach, Peter Joseph. “Even though we are not the New Zealand national team, we have established a wonderful international record and reputation”, he said.

The Aotearoa Maori team are the drawcard in the Women’s section of the tournament, and have been used as part of the promotion of this fast growing and popular international event – the third largest in Europe.

“We have selected a very talented young team with a great mix of experience and emerging talent”, said Peter Joseph. The Aotearoa Maori Women’s Team is:-

Julie Ferguson (Hawkes Bay) (Captain)
Honey Hireme (Counties)
Rachel Wikeepa (Bay of Plenty)
Chanel Huddleston (Hawkes Bay)
Claire Richardson (Hawkes Bay)
Amy Williams (Hawkes Bay)
Arihiana Marino (Auckland)
Chyna Hohepa (Waikato)
Karley Te Kawa (Counties)
Sarah Goss (Manawatu)

“It is very exciting to see talented young players like Fielding high school student, 17 year old Sarah Goss, earning selection to this wonderful Aotearoa Maori team and having the opportunity to shine on the international stage”, said Peter Joseph.

The men’s section of the tournament also attracts the best from around the world, with many of the New Zealand men’s team, making up the number one ranked Roma Seven Invitation team.

The Aotearoa Maori team who are due to depart for Rome (from Auckland) on Monday 31st May, are madly fundraising in an effort to cover the cost of participation in this prestigious event.

ENDS

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