Bond University’s squad for the second round of the 2018 Aon Uni 7s series this weekend will feature a few new faces and mark the return from injury of former Wallaroo and World Cup representative Millie Boyle.
Coach Ben Gollings said sickness and injury had made his squad selection a challenge for this round, but that he was looking forward to Boyle’s return, as well as providing opportunities for some fresh new talent.
“Millie is back from injury, has been working really hard and is looking strong and fit. Her experience with the Wallaroos and in last year’s series will serve her well – this will be a big tournament for her,” he said.
“This round a few of our younger players will also have the opportunity to show their wares, including Tarni Peep who will be making her Aon debut.
“Tarni is a great athlete and a great talent, who comes to us from the Junior Reds QAS program. This is the first year she’s been old enough to play Aon and she’s very excited to take the field.”
Gollings said the team were disappointed with their finish in Tasmania in Round 1, having started the comp strong with some good matches on Day One.
“Unfortunately, we didn’t sustain our performance across both days, which is something you just can’t afford to do,” he said.
“In this tournament anyone can beat anybody and consistency of performance is key.
“We went away and had a good look at what we did and didn’t do well and have been working on making sure our performance is where we want it to be in Canberra.”
Boyle, who is studying a Bachelor of Sports Management at Bond University, said she was excited about her return to rugby this weekend.
“It’s been almost a year since my shoulder injury half-way through the 2017 Aon Uni 7s series, and I’ve been back training with the girls for some time now,” she said.
“Last year’s Aon series was awesome. What I love most is the opportunity it provides for young female rugby players - it creates an open playing field for everyone to have a go.”
Bond University will face University of Queensland, University of Sydney, University of Canberra and University of New England in Pool A of the tournament being held at University of Canberra this weekend (Saturday 8 and Sunday 9 September, 2018).
Bond University’s squad for Round 2 of the Aon 2018 Uni7s 2018 is:
- Jess Elliston ©
- Millie Boyle
- Georgia Page
- Sophie Holyman
- Gabby Senft
- Kathy Baker
- Madi Schuck
- Trinity Mamoe
- Eve Higgins
- Taylor Fenton
- Tarni Peep
- Stephanie Rutherford
Now in its second year, the newly-expanded tournament will feature 10 universities from around Australia in a five-leg series. Bond is very proud to be hosting Round 4 at its Gold Coast campus on 6-7 October.
Competing Universities
Bond University, University of Queensland, Griffith University, University of New England, Macquarie University, University of Canberra, Adelaide University and tournament newcomers the University of Melbourne and the University of Sydney.
2018 Aon University Sevens Series
Round 1 August 25-26, University of Tasmania, Hobart
Round 2 September 8-9, University of Canberra, Canberra
Round 3 September 22-23, University of Queensland, Brisbane
Round 4 October 6-7, Bond University, Gold Coast
Round 5 October 20-21, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide
All Aon Uni 7s Series matches will be live streamed on rugby.com.au and UniSport Australia’s Facebook page.