The Bull Sharks’ premiership-winning women’s rugby side are looking to maintain their momentum through the Rugby 7s season which opens in Adelaide this weekend.
A strong season in 2021 saw the rise of several stars as consistent game time built their skills, giving the side enough depth to field two solid teams in 2022.
What they’re saying
Premiership winning coach Lawrence Faifua will be head coach for the 7s season and is setting high standards for his teams.
“We are building plenty of depth so we can field two teams across a number of tournaments with the expectation to be competitive for both the top and development sides,” Faifua said.
“We have a really good balance of experience and youth within the group and they all have high skill levels so the focus will be finding the best combinations.”
The squad
Last season’s breakout players - Mel Wilks and Player of the Year Caity Costello - will be back for the summer of 7s. They will be joined by former Bull Sharks including Brisbane Broncos NRLW players Sophie Holyman and Emily Bass.
Bond alumna Bass was part of the AON University 7s championship side in 2021 before moving across to rugby league and has been lighting it up on the wing for the Broncos.
Premier Women’s Best and Fairest Dianne Waight will get her first taste of 7s in 2022 and will be hoping to continue her blistering form after scoring 16 tries during the 15s season.
One to watch
Among the huge talent on show, Faifua says Faythe Manera is the Bull Sharks’ danger player this season.
“Faythe … has great vision, good footwork and will be a strong leader for the group,” Faifua said.
The Bull Sharks will compete at the opening leg of the Uni Rugby 7s Series in Adelaide with every game to be broadcast live on UniSportTV.
The schedule
University 7s – Adelaide, October 8-9
University 7s, Newcastle – October 15 - 16
ECP Gold Coast 7s, Bond University – October 22 -23
University 7s, Canberra – October 29-30
Briz Vegas 7s, Wests Rugby Club – November 5-6
QLD State Championships, Noosa – November 12-13