A childhood dream will become a reality this November when Nita Maynard pulls on the black jersey of the Kiwi Ferns.
Set to make her debut in this 2017 Rugby League Women’s World Cup, a season of hard work and dedication is paying dividends.
An integral member of the Cronulla Sharks Women’s Series team, Maynard was a continuing shining light for the black, white and blue in 2017.
Now, the chance to represent not only her country however her culture also is something she cannot wait to make that dream a reality.
“Having grown up in New Zealand, it has always been a dream to represent my country,” said Maynard.
“The opportunity to represent my culture and my family makes it that much more rewarding and makes it all worth the commitment and time spent away from my family to reach such a high level.”
What makes Maynard’s rugby league journey that much more unique though as this won’t be the zippy playmakers first time on the international stage.
Maynard made her debut in world sport for the arch enemy of the Kiwis and in a different code; Rugby Union 7s for Australia.
However, Nita is now part of the rugby league community and credits a year spent in the code with the Cronulla Sharks for getting her to where she is today.
“Rugby League allows for more structured attack and defence then in Sevens which is great.
“There have been many skills to learn though the Cronulla Sharks Women’s program has been great in developing my tacking and taking my game to a new level.
“Playing for the Sharks before the NRL games and now having the opportunity to represent my country has made for an amazing year.”
With a handful of Cronulla Sharks Women selected to play in the tournament along with all Pool and Semi Finals matches to be played at Southern Cross Group Stadium, the Sharks feeling will well-and-truly be alive in this competition.
“We all have a great bond at the Sharks and it will be a great match-up when the Kiwi Ferns take on the Jillaroos.
“I will be focusing on my game of course though so it’s just great to see so many Sharks involved in the Rugby League Women’s World Cup.”
