THE NRL identifies women’s rugby league as the fastest growing area of the game.

Across the country, women of all ages are signing up to local and grassroots competitions.

The recent inclusion of women’s tackle in Group 2 has struck a chord with league fans and the rapidly improving skill level in women’s teams across the competition has added a significant new drawcard to local football fixtures.

News Of The Area spoke to Nambucca Roosters women’s tackle coach Garren Stig about his team as they prepare to face the 2025 Group 2 season.

Garren has a long track record with the Roosters, playing junior football with the club from the mid 1970s.

He later operated as captain/coach of the reserve grade team and served as the club’s head coach.

Coming into the coaching role with the women’s team late last season, Stig immediately saw the potential.

He worked to harness the enthusiasm to create a more cohesive on-field unit.

“They just needed some confidence, and once they had that, the improvement was very noticeable,” Stig told NOTA.

“The team finished the season on a high, and I believe they will be competitive in every game they play this year.”

Women’s rugby league has been growing rapidly across Australia and Stig believes the opportunity to be part of a supportive and positive team environment is a key reason for its increasing popularity, at the local level at least.

Stig said that coaching the women’s team has come with its own unique challenges.

“Some of these ladies have hardly played a game, so it’s about starting with the basics, then building team confidence,” Stig explained.

“Once they reach a certain skill level, it will be more like coaching a men’s team.”

Stig is full of praise for his squad when it comes to camaraderie and spirit.

“In my short time with them, they make me laugh, and no one thinks they are better than anyone else, which is huge for team success,” said.

While it would be nice to win a premiership in 2025, Stig’s ultimate goal is to finish the season with the team stronger than when he took on the coaching role.

The Group 2 season begins on 12 April.

The Roosters have a bye in Round 1 and will test their metal against the Grafton Ghosts in Grafton on Sunday 20 April.

By Mick BIRTLES