Bathurst St Pat’s, having won the past two titles, are expected to launch a bid for a fourth title in 2018, adding to its wins in 2012, 2016 and 2017.

Woodbridge Cup president Andrew Pull said the event has been growing each year since the inaugural event in 2011. This year’s competition is on March 11.

“We had 20 teams last year and 17 years last the year before. It’s pretty popular,” he said.

“St Pat’s are expected to be back this year. I was speaking to [coach] Mick Armstrong and he’s a big believer in this event and doesn’t want to miss it.

“Lithgow normally come and they always put in a good challenge.”

Bathurst Panthers have previously not entered the competition. 

The event originally came about when the Western Rugby League wanted women rugby league players to receive more recognition.

With free entry, Pull said the event attracts a good crowd.

“There’s plenty of good athletes out there and they’re very skillful,” he said.

“Some girls are even better than the man. It’s really good and it has improved since we started the event.”

The event will be held in Canowindra, with games played at the Tom Clyburn Oval.

The event is held in the town because of it’s great facilities and it’s central locality for competing teams from the Woodbridge Cup, Group 9, Group 10 and Group 11.

“There’s three playing fields in Canowindra, so everyone can be playing at once,” Pull said.

Games start at 10am.

Game duration will be 20 or 30 minutes, depending on entry numbers and all teams will play a minimum of two games each.

Nomination fees is $100 per team and closing date for nominations is on February 25, 2018.

Previous winners of the competition includes Canowindra, in 2011, Orange Hawks, in 2013, and Orange CYMS in 2014 and 2015. 

For more information or to nominate a team, contact Pull at 0487 379 691 or at pullyone@hotmail.com.