GIRLS rugby league continues to grow as up to 20 teams battled it out to progress to the next round of the Katrina Fanning Cup in Port Macquarie on Wednesday.
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Schools from around the Hastings, Manning and Macleay regions fielded sides in the under-14, under-16 and under-18 divisions in the nine-a-side tournament.
Northern NSW National Rugby League development officer Ben Stewart said after the inaugural event 12 months ago it was satisfying to now see the tournament have a name on the trophy.
"This year they've got a name for it - the Katrina Fanning Cup," he said.
"She was an ex-Jillaroo player back in the days where it kicked off."
Stewart said the competition had slightly grown in numbers this year with eight in the under-14s, seven in the under-16s and three in the under-18s.
"Last year it was fairly new so a lot of the schools were not really sure about it, but this year we have St Clare's, Chatham, Wingham and Great Lakes Colleges from Forster and Tuncurry that have come this year which is outstanding."
The improvements in tackle technique and overall ability from the girls saw some high quality matches played throughout the day.
St Clare's and St Paul's College from Kempsey along with Melville High School were the most impressive teams.
"St Paul's College won it last year so they're usually a very strong side," Stewart said.
MacKillop College and St Joseph's Regional College from Port Macquarie were also strong in their respective age divisions.
"A lot of the girls have had experience playing end of season tackle comps with their local groups and we're starting to see skill levels have gone to another level this year compared to last year.
"The women's game is getting stronger and stronger and it's going to be massive in this area moving forward."
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