The Stormers Women’s Team kicked off the Spring 2016 Season with a Home Match against the Dallas Griffins.  The conditions were cold with a strong Northeast wind that made it feel much colder than just cold. The person least likely to enjoy the conditions, Jamaica native Coleen Markland scored 6 Tries for the Stormers.  The Little Rock Backline enjoyed a very busy day as they stampeded to 11 total tries on the day.  Emily McElravey powered her way in for an early Try and Kristina Hickmon scored twice on two strong runs in the first half.  Jen Johnson’s Try was sandwiched between two Markland Trys.  Joleen Steibel had the play of the day as she stepped in front of a pass from the opposing Flyhalf and ran it back for a 50 Meter Try.  Not to be left out of the fun, the pack had one of their own, Annalise Evans, score the final two Tries from her Number 8 Position.  Bree Walas connected on 5 conversions which was a feat on its own due to the strong wind and did I say “Cold Conditions.” The final score was the Stormers 75 Griffins 0.

Overall, the Griffins might have been overmatched by experience but they played up until the final whistle and they have a bunch of young talent.    The visitors from Saturday will be a tough opponent for the Stormers in the years to come with all of their young talented players gaining valuable Rugby playing experience.

The Stormers are a formidable side.  Coach Kate Turpin has this side looking better than they have in years.  She has put together a cohesive group in a short time but the players willingness also deserves to be noted. 

Player of the Match for Little Rock:  Annalise Evans, she was all over the pitch winning the ball at the rucks and making hard tackles on defense.  She even had the time to score two tries.