
The 2020 Richmond Roses have approximately half of the 2019 Grand Final Team returning this season. Injury, retirement, pregnancy & work commitments all play a part for the other half of the team not returning this season. The Roses team manager Denys Marra was "pleased to announced that they will still be involved with the team when possible".
Alice Vailea & Va'anessa Molia-Fraser both suffered season ending knee injuries last season requiring surgery & the team look forward to hopefully having them back on the field at some point this season. Four players from the 2019 Under 18s Richmond Rosebuds move up this season including Maraea Ah Kuoi-Atmore & Rowena Meleisia-Koonwaiyou who both debuted for the Roses last season. Approximately 14 new players have aligned themselves with the Roses this season including a few ladies coming from Rugby Union backgrounds.
Since the season was given the green light the Roses have had good numbers at training ranging from 14-22. Going back to basics and teaching/fine tuning things has been the focus for these sessions.
The Richmond Roses are incredibly grateful to have Tony Murray (of Tony Murray Electrical Inspections) back on board with us this season as Major Sponsor & have also been fortunate enough to have a former Richmond Junior and Premier player Savi Hafoka (of Stone Solutions) jump onboard as another sponsor.
On the Roses management team side one of the coaches Tammi has been out of action for a while as she recovers from a hip operation. The team wish her a speedy recovery and have a player registration form at the ready for Tammi to sign upon her return to training.
Lastly, a special mention to Lorina 'Lori' Papali'i who after playing rugby league since 1994 has decided to hang up her boots and retire. On behalf of the entire Richmond club and New Zealand rugby league community we thank you for your dedication and service to not only the game itself but also to the Richmond Roses. We wish you all the best for the new journey ahead.