CAMDEN Haven’s Naomi George is poised to make her mark at the upcoming Fiji Coral Coast Sevens tournament, gaining selection to the Pacific Nomads Rugby 7s Women’s team.

Scheduled to take place in Sigatoka, Fiji from January 16-18, 2025, the tournament is a major event on the international rugby 7s calendar.

Sixteen men’s, twelve women’s and sixteen youth sides will feature, including renowned sides such as the New Zealand All Blacks 7s team.

Naomi brings a wealth of representative experience to the side.

Her impressive resume includes the North Coast Bulldogs, Mid North Coast Rugby 7s and 15s squads, as well as multiple call-ups to the Corellas NSW Country Rugby Women’s team.

Naomi was also a pivotal member of the Laurieton Stingrays team that dominated the Mid North Coast Women’s Tackle Competition this year.

“My favourite memory so far would be this season with the Stingrays,” said Naomi.

“We were considered the favourites to win as we had some incredibly talented players in our team, but it was the bond that we developed that made the difference.”

Naomi’s sporting career initially began in netball, earning representative honours at the age of twelve with the Hastings Valley Netball Association.

Transitioning to rugby union during high school, Naomi faced limited opportunities due to the absence of a local women’s competition.

Wauchope Thunder were the first local rugby club to establish a women’s team, but there were no other all-female teams available to play against.

For a year the Wauchope women’s team trained alongside the men without any matches, however their dedication paved the way for the introduction of the Mid North Coast Rugby Women’s League in 2016.

Naomi’s selection in the Pacific Nomads Rugby 7s Team was fueled by encouragement from her friend and former teammate, Ellie Johnston.

“I’m so fortunate and honoured to have this opportunity to play with the likes of Ellie Johnston, Renee Clarke and Jayme Averillo,” Naomi said of her selection.

“Three amazing players who are inspiring to female athletes everywhere.”

Pacific Nomads Rugby was founded in 2023 by Loveni Enari and Paddy Bowen, with the aim of broadening access and playing opportunities in Rugby Sevens.

By Kim AMBROSE