The Western Force have confirmed their Super W squad for 2023, with club legend Matt Hodgson set to step up as head coach.
Hodgson takes over from Wayne Walden, with the 11-cap Wallaby currently serving as the current General Manager of Rugby.
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"Hodgo [Matt Hodgson] has brought a lot of energy and positivity to the group. He has united the group and grown the culture from the get-go. The girls greatly respect Hodgo; I see it in their commitment to training and their changes to better themselves and the team," Claudia attested.
"He is very much a conversationalist. He makes an effort to form bonds with the players, and with that respect follows. When he speaks at training, 100% of the squad is all ears; this is vital in any rugby team."
"As General Manager, he has brought a lot of connections back to the club, the girls now understand what they stand for and the values they must uphold," Female High Performance Manager, Claudia Bell said in a statement.
The club also confirmed a 30-player squad for the upcoming season, headlined by Wallaroo Trilleen Pomare.
Pomare is joined by breakout star Tamika Jones, who was named Bec Clough medallist after a strong 2022 Super W campaign.
Exciting winger Rachel Laqeretabua headlines the new additions to the squad, making the move from English club Saracens alongside returning second-rower Katie Barnes, who featured for the Force in 2020.
Martha Mataele links up with the squad after impressing in New Zealand's Farah Palmer Cup, completing the family connection with partner Manasa.
"It’s an exciting time in the female space for the Western Force both on and off the field. Seeing the talent and the excitement in the girls it was a delight to put my hand forward for the role into the Super W campaign," Hodgson said.
"Rachel Laqeretabua relocating to WA from Saracens and the England program illustrates that what is emerging here in WA is being recognised and acknowledged internationally."
"Being eight weeks into the program, it was definitely tough breaking the group down. We had over 50 players at some training sessions, which is exciting for the female game in WA. I have seen significant growth in the squad in all areas, from gym, nutrition, and rugby knowledge to overall skills. As we go into more team play, it is time to go out there and perform.
“With the continued intent to grow female rugby in WA, this squad aims to set a standard for all aspirational athletes in the state.”
Forwards
- Braxton Walker
- Angelica Uila
- Hera Barb Malcolm Heke
- Mercedes Putz
- Penina Tuilaepa
- Sera Ah Sam
- Sofia Bekir Fuente
- Ashlee Knight
- Elizabeth Kennedy
- Libya Teepa
- Destiny Maui
- Katie Barnes
- Kiera McAskill
- Sera Ravatudei
- Taj Heald
- Tamika Jones
Backs
- Kendra Fell
- Saelua Leaula
- Samantha Wood
- Ariana Hira-Hirangi
- Bo Burton
- Langley Sesega
- Nicole Ledington
- Trilleen Pomare
- Zakiya Kereopa
- Aiysha Wigley
- Ariana Ruru-Hinaki
- Martha Mataele
- Paihau Pomare
- Rachel Laqeretabua
