Gearing up for hottest rugby

Woy Woy Rugby Union Club is gearing itself up for a torrid time at the "hottest sevens tournament in the world", which will be held in Darwin later this month.

"It is the third time that the club has taken a side to the tournament and the club is trying to repeat its excellent performances at the last two tournaments," said assistant media officer Sam Mokeme.

Manager Katherine Bob said: "The tournament has attracted two Aussie Spirit sides, which is the Australian sevens team which plays on the IRB sevens tournaments across the globe."

"They are getting ready for the Commonwealth Games so are looking at this tournament as a selection trial to finalise their squad.

"Six Fijian sides and the Auckland sevens team will add to that international feel again."

Mr Mokeme said the official luncheon would feature champion All Black player Stu Wilson.

"The tournament prize money will reach $25,000 this year and the Lions are hoping for a slice of that," Mr Mokeme said.

He said that sponsors had made the trip affordable for the Lions players.

"We still do have spots available for players or spectators so if anyone wishes to come on this trip please call Ross Hopkins on 0417 828 346.

"Training will commence early February for the winter season and the club is already confident of repeating its steady rise at first grade level."

"The club has six players trialling with the Central Coast Waves side which will play in the Shute Shield competition in Sydney, so the exposure for some of the players and the club will be getting is fantastic."

Press release, January 9 Sam Mokeme, Woy Woy Rugby Union Club