History was made in Woodstock last Saturday as the Woodstock Panthers Girls league tag team played their first ever home game.
While the Panthers went down 22–6, the match was full of spirit, energy and another highlight, the team’s very first try.
Jamie Amos crossed the line to score the Panthers’ debut points, with Courtney Booth successfully converting to add the extras.
Coach Cole Hewitt praised his side’s performance and progress.
“It was our first home game and the girls went really well,” he said.
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“They got beaten 22–6, but played really well again, so I’m happy with the way they’re going.”
For Hewitt, the atmosphere around the club was just as important as the result.
“A few of the girls were a little bit nervous, but they were good.”
“The crowd was awesome, it was a good crowd.”
Although Woodstock didn’t claim the win, Hewitt was particularly impressed by his team’s defensive efforts.
“They all played really well, and tagging is really good,” he said.
“They couldn’t really get through us, they had to go around us, which is brilliant.”
“That’s what I’ve asked the ladies to do.”
It was a clear sign that the team’s hard work at training is paying off.
“The ladies, they just love it and they’re just taking it all in,” Hewitt said.
“I’m hopefully doing the right thing by leading them in the right direction.”
The Panthers now have a bye over the long weekend before facing CSU in their next clash.
Hewitt is confident the extra training sessions will help his side continue to improve.
“We’ll have a couple more training runs under the belt,” he said.
“I think the girls will do well and keep improving.”
“They just amaze me every time I train, and then at home playing.”
For Hewitt, the first home game was about more than the scoreline.
It was about celebrating the team’s place in the club’s history and the support from the local community.
“The girls are amazing,” he said.
“I’d like to thank the club for putting on such a great day.”
With their first home game behind them, the Woodstock Panthers Girls have already left their mark on the field and on the town’s sport.
