Pakuranga is excited to welcome Sophia Gmuer-Hornell to the club as the 2024 Under 15 girls coach.

With the success of the senior Belles this year, the club is looking forward to reintroducing the Under 15s grade, which ran successfully in 2021 and 2022.

Sophia currently plays 15s, sevens and AFL, she hails from Kerikeri where she started her rugby journey before moving to Auckland.

She says she is looking forward to continuing to grow the women’s game at the club.

“I have heard many great things about Pakuranga Rugby Club, from work mates and even my students. It seemed like to no brainer to come and join such a highly spoken of club.

“I am looking forward to helping young women grow in and enjoy rugby,  and most of all learning lots. Also possibly playing for the Belles!”

A successful give-it-a-go evening earlier this month saw almost 70 young girls running around on Bell park and Sophia encourages anyone thinking about playing, to get involved.

“Give it a go, it’s a safe environment for learning! Rugby is a great sport in which your team and club becomes your whānau. Be ready to put in some hard mahi but the rewards you get are so very worth it. Girls can do anything.”

Players can register their expression of interest here. 

Article added: Tuesday 14 November 2023