THE Coffs Coast Dolphins have finished as minor premiers in the inaugural North Coast Women’s Rugby League season.

The Dolphins finished on top of the ladder at the end of the home and away season, after winning six of their eight games.

They now prepare to play their semi-final against Macleay Valley this weekend in Wauchope, with the winner through to this year’s grand final.

The Dolphins were one of six teams to contest the inaugural season, which also included Long Flat, Macleay Valley, Kendall, Wingham Tigers, and the Taree Titans.

Dolphins player and team manager Heather Duncan explained why her side had finished on top of the ladder.

“We’ve got good forwards that run hard, and it all starts with our forwards as they get us to where we need to get,” she said.

“We are a tight knit team, and everyone steps up and does their job, and we all dig in and do the hard work.

“And a shout out to our coach Brenden Pellegrino, as we wouldn’t be where we are without him.

“The knowledge he has and his experience is so valuable, and he trains us hard and gives us guidance.”

As they prepared to face Macleay Valley for a spot in the grand final, Duncan gave an insight into the Dolphins semi-final opponents.

“They are one of the harder teams we’ve played, and we had to work really hard to get both wins against them,” she said.

“They have a lot of strength in their forwards, and a good kicker who sets up a lot of plays.”

Duncan said the new competition had been a highlight of her sporting career.

“It’s been one of the best things I’ve been a part of in my life, just being around the girls and sharing their journey,” she said.

“Women’s rugby league is something we need to build on in the region, just providing an opportunity for women to play tackle football.

“It’s something we need to build on and establish in the future, and this season was only the start.”

By Aiden BURGESS