BY PANTHERS MEDIA

PENRITH Panthers and Panthers Juniors are proud to announce the launch of the Panthers Rugby League Women’s (PRLW) competition ahead of the 2023 season.

The historic new under-20s competition will provide local female players (aged 18, 19 and 20 in 2023) the opportunity to participate in a competitive program before progressing to open-aged and professional competitions.

Aligned with the club’s built-from-within philosophy, Panthers will develop local talent to provide female players with a pathway into the club’s proposed inclusion in the NRLW competition.

The first-of-its-kind competition, coordinated by Panthers Pathways in conjunction with Panthers Juniors, will run parallel to the junior rugby league competition – from April to August.

The PRLW will comprise of 15 rounds and finals, with matches to be played on weekends in the Penrith district.

Prior to the commencement of the season, all players will train for an eight-week block. At the conclusion of the training period, teams will be formed to create an equal and competitive competition.

Players will compete in a Panthers-inspired jersey, with each team playing in a different colour variation.

All players will receive Panthers training and playing apparel, and have the opportunity to be involved in the Panthers Pathways system – which includes training, wellbeing and education.

“The launch of the Panthers Rugby League Women’s competition is an exciting step for the female pathways program at the club,” Panthers Rugby League CEO Matt Cameron said.

“This new historic competition demonstrates the belief in where the club is headed within the women’s game.

“With a build-from-within model, Panthers will develop local talent to make the club well prepared and competitive for the future inclusion in the NRLW competition.”

Registrations opened on 1 December 2022. Participants will need to complete the PRLW Player Information Cognito Form, as well as register through player’s junior league club.