AFTER winning just one game in 2016, this weekend’s home game looms large for the Jimboomba Thunder Womens’ Open rugby team, because despite the odds they’ve turned their fortunes around and are heading to take at least the minor premier’s position this year.
Co-captain Emmalyn Donnellys has been in the team the longest and she spoke to the Times this week ahead of the last game of the season.
“I have been running out onto the field wearing a Thunder jersey for six years,” she said.
“The team has had ladies come and go in that time, but the commitment, energy and determination to keep striving to push the limits has never changed.
“We have come so far from our very first game to where we are now. There are no words to describe how proud and privileged I feel to be able to pull on the Thunder jersey with the girls every week. Each and every one one of them are proof that determination pays off.”
- Read more: Successful start for Thunder teams
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- Read more: Women’s sport must keep growing
Home ground game
According to Ms Donnellys, team morale is possibly the highest it has ever been, with all of their hard work in training paying off.
“The excitement and hunger to win is only growing stronger,” she said.
“We will be going into the game ahead focused on playing as a team, putting our training into practice and most importantly having fun with lots of smiles and laughter.
“Our next game will be played at our home ground, the Thunderdome. We will be playing against Normanby Hounds.”
Normanby has always been a great team to play against, with their focus being on improving their own game and enjoyment, Ms Donnellys said.
“We have no doubt there will be lots of laughter in the game this weekend, but that being said, be prepared to feel the 'thunder and the lightning' Normanby.”
“Another win for us would show that all our hard work and persistence is paying off. It would mean that we have not only proved to ourselves but also other teams that when you push yourselves hard enough and believe in yourself and each other, you will be able to accomplish your goals.
“Being able to scream our winning song at the top of our lungs is always amazing too,” she said.
The Jimboomba Thunder Womens’ Open team play the Normanby Hounds at 3pm on Saturday, August 19 at 3pm at the Thunderdome, Jimboomba.
