Maya, a Nelson Bay product, excelled through the skills training provided by the Gropers club before going on to represent her district (Hunter Wildfires), her state (NSW) and eventually the green and gold of Australia.

Providing skills coaching and seamless pathways from juniors to seniors are just some of the initiatives being promoted by the newly elected committee at Nelson Bay Junior Rugby Union Club.

Led by junior president Clint Brown and coordinator Leigh Byfield, the Bay is aiming to field three girls sides in season 2022 - one each in the under 13s, under 15s and under 17s.

In order to ensure they can register enough players, the Gropers are hosting a "Try Rugby Day" for girls of all ages, as well as the women's 7s program.

The day will be held on Friday, January 14, kicking off at 5pm at Bill Strong Oval.

"We have a new committee with some new ideas and part of those initiatives is to build the girls participation in rugby and ensure they receive some of the best training in skills and drills," said Leigh.

"Last year we had 16 girls registered in the under 13s winter competition, this year we are hoping to register enough girls to also field teams in the under 15s and under 17s.

"It doesn't matter if we can't get the full complement of 15, as games are played with matching numbers, so if a club has only 12 players the opposition will field a similar number."

Leigh said that Nelson Bay would be participating in the summer 7s junior tournament which starts on Friday, February 11, and would continue on Friday nights at the Tomaree No 1 match field throughout Term 1 of the school year. The 7s season for the seniors commences a week later.

She said that Friday night under lights was chosen to allow girls who wanted to continue their weekend sport.

"The regular winter season begins after the 7s. The club has made it easier for girls looking to register for both comps, comprising nine months of rugby, by paying the one special price of $180 and with the Kids Vouchers the cost would be reduced to just $80."

To register, girls are urged to go to the link on the Nelson Bay Junior Rugby Union Facebook page.

Nelson Bay's seniors coordinator Tiani Bishop said that the women were looking forward to another successful 7s series starting on Friday, February 18.

"We will also be looking for new players to bolster our squad ... eventually the aim is to field a winter comp team but they may have to wait some years," Tiani said.

"Having a pipeline from the juniors to seniors is very important. When you look at someone like Maya Stewart, who played one game for Nelson Bay before she was scouted and has gone on to play for her country. We want to promote the fact that anyone can play rugby."

Another Bay product to feature with the Hunter Wildfires is Kate Holland, who continues to impress in rugby after having enjoyed some success in her junior sporting pursuits.

Senior players wanting more information can contact Tiani on 0438 959 742.