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The Guardian - AU
The Guardian - AU
World
Serena Solomon in Auckland

Tackle training and too many urinals: New Zealand women face challenges as they flock to rugby

Brooke Harley
Brooke Harley will play rugby in Auckland next season, as women’s participation in the sport surges in New Zealand. Photograph: Fiona Goodall/The Guardian

It is a fairly common situation for any child. One parent says yes and the other says no. The request: could Brooke Harley, a 12-year-old girl from New Zealand, switch from tag rugby to tackle?

“I just love tackle and letting all my anger out,” said Brooke, from the sidelines of a recent game at west Auckland’s Suburbs rugby football club where she is a member. The interest in tackling came after came alive when Brooke watched the Black Ferns win the 2022 Women’s Rugby World Cup on home turf, whipping the nation into football fever with female athletes at the centre.

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