Boars women won't settle for anything less than a premiership

Given the special connection Parkes Boars stalwart Kevin Oliver has with the club's women's team, it's only fitting to see him as their coach for 2025. In fact it's his second year in the role, which he was very happy to take on. Oliver had a vision for a women's side to have a permanent place among the Boar pack and he made 2020 the year he was going to instigate it, when he was club president. "I approached Mitch Westcott and asked if he could start coaching a women's side," he said. Wondering where the women were going to come from, Oliver told him not to worry and if he would be coach they'd be set. Oliver rallied to find players - he must have been pretty convincing because he managed to form a side fully equipped to take on the Westfund North Cup competition. Five years' on they've gone from strength to strength he said. "The girls are just loving it," he said. "We do have good numbers but we're always looking for more recruits. "It does give you a different perspective." The Boars women have cemented themselves as an ongoing threat in the competition. Last year they were minor premiers and runners-up overall. They've made the last two grand finals and the finals series for a number of years. The jewel in the crown, the premiership, has been just beyond reach but this season Parkes won't settle for anything less. "To get the Cup, then I can retire," Oliver laughed, speaking of their focus for 2025. Oliver said the players give everything they have each game and are always looking to better themselves. "They're always asking questions to improve their style and techniques," he said. He's feeling pretty positive about the season ahead. "We've lost a few and we've gained a few," Oliver said. "We've had some old girls come back and some new recruits which is great. "They've gelled as a team, considering we've only had a few runs at training. "They're clicking well." While the Parkes women didn't get a chance to put those skills into action during the club's season launch on Saturday at Spicer Oval, their moment will come this weekend when they head to Boorowa for the Beer and Rugby Festival. They're among the 10 women’s teams who will play three games over the course of Saturday. "That'll be a really good test for us," Oliver said. "I'm very proud to see where the club is now, having gone from men only in 2019 to men and women. "They bring a different perspective and energy." The women train Tuesdays and Thursdays at 6.30pm at Spicer Oval for anyone interested in joining them.