“It’s such a good thing for all the clubs,” she said of League Tag’s inclusion in the Group 7 Rugby League competition.

“You can get involved, it’s not just watching your boyfriend or partner play… And showing we can play just as good as the boys.”

Kiama resident Pan, 23, has been involved with the Kiama Knights’ Women’s League Tag side since the competition kicked off in Group 7 in 2010.

The team has enjoyed a successful run, winning three premierships, as well as two Country Challenges. 

In previous years she has been a part of the playing roster, but an injury has sidelined her for the 2016 season. 

She’s stayed involved with the club though, managing the Kiama women’s team. 

“When the League Tag comp started (in Group 7) we had three teams – us, Jamberoo and Warilla.

“This year it’s 12 teams.”

Pan and some of her Kiama colleagues were also involved in the inaugural Greater Southern Stars representative team recently.

The side was comprised of players from Country Rugby League competitions in Groups 7, 6 and 16. 

Pan was enlisted as assistant coach, while Kiama’s Tyler Finn, Alana Glasson and Jaime Emerson were selected to be part of the playing squad for the Senior Country Championships. 

In their opening match, the Greater Southern Stars defeated Western Rams 30-6.

Last weekend, they travelled to Dubbo for the semi-finals.

Unfortunately they were knocked out of the competition by the East Coast Dolphins via an 18-10 defeat. 

“It was a really good experience,” Pan said.

“It’s just a step up for everyone, to be able to play with the best, against the best. It was great to come together and play in the same colours, and form life-long friendships.

“You’ll also enjoy it more when you play against them (other Group 7 players) in the future.”

Pan believed one of the most appealing aspects of Women’s League Tag was that it offered a “chance for girls who don’t want to play the full contact sport”.

“This way they can still get involved in the rugby league community,” she said.

“Growing up I played a lot of Oztag. I also watched my dad and older brother since I was a kid.

“I enjoy all (aspects) of it.”

Pan was also confident the Knights’ League Tag side would again be a contender when the semi-finals arrived.

“We’ve got a lot of depth; a number of the girls have played together for the past three or four years. 

“Hopefully we can be up there again come grand final time.”