Womens 7's to be included at Commenwealth Games
EMILEE Cherry and her medal-hungry crew have been given a huge new target with confirmation women’s sevens will be included in the 2018 Commonwealth Games on the Gold Coast.
Women’s sevens world player of the year Cherry, 21, Charlotte Caslick, 19, Tiana Penitani, 18, and new netball convert Tanisha Stanton, 18, reflect the youth profile of Australia’s squad so 2018 will be very much in their thinking.
The Saturday-Sunday action at this weekend’s Gold Coast Sevens will offer a snapshot of the mushrooming profile of women’s sevens with the Australians to play Canada in a three-match series to complement the men’s action.
The Gold Coast 2018 Commonwealth Games Corporation (GOLDOC) made Tuesday’s announcement with a big thumbs up from Australian Rugby Union boss Bill Pulver.
GOLDOC CEO Mark Peters said they were delighted women’s sevens would be a part of the GC2018 sports program.
“Rugby sevens was a huge hit in Glasgow 2014 this year with sell-out crowds of more than 171,000 enjoying an electric atmosphere and exhilarating on-field action,” Peters said.
The confirmation comes at an exciting time for rugby sevens in Australia with 15,864 more people participating in the sport in 2013 compared to 2012. It is an increase of 40 per cent with spikes in school, junior and women’s numbers.
Queensland’s sevens weapon Charlotte Caslick, said: “I must admit I was a bit jealous seeing our men’s team going over to take part at the Games in Glasgow earlier this year.
“The atmosphere surrounding the Commonwealth Games looked absolutely incredible on the TV and something I hope to be a part of in 2018.
“The fact the Games are being held in my home state is a wonderful bonus … a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to be part of a wider Australian team on home soil.”
http://www.news.com.au/sport/rugby/w...-1227082525285
