More than a decade on from her twin sister representing Auckland, Shontelle Woodman is excited to get her first crack with the Vulcans at next month's National Women's Tournament. 

Shontelle's twin Sharnita donned the blue jersey back in 2008, before the pair went on to represent the Kiwi Ferns together. 

At 34 and with 11 seasons in the Auckland women's competition under her belt, Shontelle – who plays for the Richmond Roses – is the most experienced player in the Vulcans' squad for the national tournament and said she can't wait to represent them.  

"To play for the Auckland Vulcans is really special for me," Shontelle said.  

"I’ve played for Counties Manukau for a number of years previously, but my twin sister started out playing for Auckland so I’m following in her footsteps.

“I hope I represent her well and continue on our Auckland family legacy. 

“My eight-year-old daughter also plays for the Hamilton City Tigers, so I’m looking to keep it a generational thing for us representing Auckland."

Able to play comfortably in the centres or halves, Shontelle's versatility will be a huge plus for the Vulcans in the Championship competition, while she's also keen to help develop some of the squad's less experienced players. 

Shontelle is joined by fellow capped internationals Tanika-Jazz Noble-Bell, Lilieta Maumau-Pinomi, Cesca Luafalealo and Natalee Tagivaitau in the squad, while there are also first-year Farrelly Photos Women’s Premiership players such as Elizabeth Taka and Kaylarnee Meleisea.  

“I want to have a focus on the younger ones and helping them settle into the semi-professional environment by being open to them if they ever need help during the campaign," Shontelle said. 

“I want to lead by example by bringing a sense of consistency and hard work, while showcasing the skills I have to offer to the team.

“Kaylarnee played in the halves this year for Richmond but I can see her playing more as a second rower.

"She’s strong defensively, has good work ethic off the field, she's still new but is open to learning.”

Article added: Friday 15 September 2020