Orange Emus’ Amanda Ferguson has made history by becoming the first woman to be appointed to the NSW Country Rugby Union board, as a director.
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Ferguson, a former NSW Country Corellas and manager and the current Wallaroos manager, was nominated and then elected at NSW Country’s annual general meeting late last month.
“It’s great, the entire board has always been very enthusiastic and supportive of women’s rugby,” Ferguson, chuffed with her election, said.
Ferguson’s appointment to the NSW Country board comes at the same time as another huge development in women’s rugby, which she was over the moon to announce.
“At this year’s NSW Country Championships there will also be a women’s sevens tournament, which nine zones have already nominated for including Central West,” Ferguson enthused.
“It’s great for it to be happening this year and then obviously there will be the regular, 15-a-side women’s Country Championship as well.”
NSW Country president Barry Ruddy echoed Ferguson’s enthusiasm, saying her appointment was essentially a no-brainer considering her history as a player, coach and administrator across Orange, the region, state and country.
“Amanda Ferguson will bring a new perspective to the Country board, as she has strong qualities not only in rugby, but in the professional world,” Ruddy said.
In a bid to scope out available talent for those Country Championship campaigns – and hopefully pick up a couple of players for Emus’ and now Orange City’s women’s teams – Central West Rugby Union is also hosting a trial and skills day at Endeavour Oval on Sunday.
It’s open to anyone women interested, and runs from 10am to 2pm.
Those interested can also contact Central West coach Greg Horton (0417 668 506), assistant coach Tristan Buttenshaw (0428 727 729) or Ferguson, who will manage the side, on 0409 368 010.
Ferguson’s appointment comes a little under two months after her maiden trip away – officially – managing the Australian women’s side in New Zealand, a squad which also included Orange product Grace Hamilton.
The Wallaroos played two Tests against New Zealand, which they lost 67-3 and 29-3, which Ferguson said was “an amazing experience”.
“It was, for myself, the players and all the coaches and officials,” she said.
“We debuted 14 players across those two Tests so it was amazing experience for them. It was great to have Grace there too, she came into the squad after an injury and did really well.”
Ferguson is set to resume her role as Wallaroos manager at next year’s World Cup in Ireland.