The Vanuatu Rugby League (VRL) has officially named its Women’s train-on squad ahead of a historic international 9-a-side match against the Singapore Sunbirds this June. The match will be played as part of a double-header with the men’s national team on Saturday, June 6 at Korman Stadium in Port Vila.
The upcoming fixture will mark an incredible milestone for both nations, with it being the first time the Singapore Sunbirds have taken the field, whilst for the Vanuatu women it will be the first time they have played in Vanuatu.
The match will be played over three 15 minute thirds to decide the victor.
Experienced core to lead Vanuatu squad
The Vanuatu women’s squad will be led by Winona Kalpukai and Jaimeen Kenni, who co-captained the team during their historic debut at the 2023 Pacific Games in Honiara, Solomon Islands. Kenni famously etched her name into the record books by scoring Vanuatu’s first-ever international try.
Joining them from that landmark Pacific Games tournament are veterans Majory Thompson and Melta Cyprus, while Louisa Obed joins the squad after being a late withdrawal from the Games due to injury.
Joining this core in the squad, are a number of players from last year’s Fijian Cup team, including Amele Shem, Stephanie Garae, Doreen Dick, Bryanna Kaltack, Salote Kalpoi, and Jessica Neverservette.
Train-On squad
- Majory Thompson
- Doreen Dick
- Bryanna Kaltack
- Jessica Neverservette
- Winona Kalpukai
- Louisa Obed
- Melta Cyprus
- Stephanie Garae
- Thelma Kalpukai
- Thandy Tumukon
- Jaimeen Kenni
- Amele Shem
- Stella Shem
- Alliana David
- Georgiana Siro
- Sharron Kenni
- Salote Kalpoi
- Jerolyne Kawo
- Ashley Daniel
- Carol Shem
- Antoinette Kara
- Shanaya Bakokoto
Match details
Venue: Korman Stadium, Port Vila:
Saturday, June 6
Women’s Nines:
Singapore Sunbirds vs. Vanuatu Women’s National Team
1:30pm kick off
