Archer Clothing rugby league helps pioneer rugby in Plumtree

IN most parts of the country, women’s rugby is not that popular, however, in the border town of Plumtree, that is about to change.

The Bulawayo Metropolitan Rugby Football Board (BMRFB) over the past months, in partnership with Archer Clothing hosted the inaugural Archer Clothing Rugby League which was attended by teams from Bulawayo and also from Plumtree.

A women’s team from the border town took part in the three-month long championship and at the end of the league this past week, Plumtree Queens, as the team is known, were named the most disciplined women’s side throughout the competition.

Despite failing to win any silverware, the league was an important step in the pioneering of women’s rugby in Plumtree and their representative, Catherine Shurugwi was grateful for the opportunity to play at such a high level.

It was however, not an easy journey for the side but they received support which saw them coming into Bulawayo to compete regularly, something which played a huge role in their growth and development.

“Playing here (in Bulawayo) was very important for us because we don’t have rugby teams in Plumtree. However, we struggled a lot with travelling funds from Plumtree to Bulawayo but sometimes, Gilbert Nyamutsamba would assist us with transport costs and we are grateful.

“I am pleased with the way we played throughout the tournament and we are working hard to bring women’s rugby to Plumtree. We are also still looking for sponsors to assist us,” said Shurugwi.

Plumtree Queens competed against some established women’s rugby teams in Bulawayo such as Warriors and Highlanders.

Despite being new to the game, Plumtree Queens managed to win some of their games including completing a double over Bulldogs women. The two wins against Bulldogs women were back-to-back, winning 10-0 in the first match and following it up with a 25-0 victory.

The future of women’s rugby in Plumtree is looking good and in the right direction with their participation in the Archer Clothing Rugby League likely to open more doors to many aspiring players.

Warriors’ women were crowned champions of the league and in second place was Highlanders. — @brandon_malvin