The commencement of the AFLW Premiership Competition is expected to provide a strong base towards representatives for New Zealand’s debut appearance in the 2020 Women’s International Cup.
Historically, every three years, the International Cup has taken place in Melbourne. New Zealand has competed in the Men’s competition in every year the tournament has taken place since its inception in 2002 but this will be the first time for the New Zealand Kahu.
A significant number of the player group to be announced are expected to based in Australia competing within the Australian system. Although these numbers are limited due to International Cup qualification standards, there will be a group of quality inclusions that will add to the experience and compliment youthful talent.
The two year plan is expected to include the following selection criteria, essential to maintain squad inclusion;
- Full participation in both training and playing schedules for the 2019 and 2020 Premiership seasons. (Australian based players to match with current Australian clubs)
- Attendance at scheduled regional face to face organisational sessions. (Scheduled between July to Apr between 2018 to 2020)
- Commitment to a remote training plan. (Programmes to be individually designed with the ability to be completed remotely)
- Commitment to Regional League Competitions between August to December in 2018 and 2019.
