A CREW of Port Macquarie and Camden Haven representatives took the field for the NSW Over 37s Ladies in the Oztag State of Origin series played in Coffs Harbour from 19-20 September.
Held annually, the State of Origin sees Queensland teams throw down against New South Wales across a variety of age and gender divisions.
While Mandy McKinnon, Natalie West and Raquel Lievore had competed in State of Origin previously, it was a debut for Rachael Ackroyd, Shanene Matthews and Jade Ackroyd.
McKinnon filled the role of captain for the NSW Over 37s ladies for the second year running.
Under her leadership the team won three of their four games, being named State of Origin Champions for 2025.
Lake Cathie local Natalie West was named Players’ Player, as well as MVP for the tournament.
Natalie told News Of The Area she started playing Oztag about 10 years ago.
“We had just moved to the area, and I was looking to get fit and make new friends,” she said.
“I find it more fun to exercise as a team rather than on my own in the gym, so Oztag was perfect for that.
“Playing at this level alongside such outstanding players and sharing such a big win is a real highlight for me.”
Natalie and several of her teammates pushed through injury to compete at the Origin series.
“I’m extremely proud of how we all came together as a team,” she said.
“Particularly as the Queensland side was extremely strong, which forced us to rapidly adapt our playing technique to match their skill level.”
By Rachael THORPE
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