The format sees teams play short, fast-paced contact games on a full-sized field every Friday night over a six-week period.

Country Rugby League (CRL) female participation officer Kylie Hilder believes the announcement of new competitions is testament to the continued growth of women’s rugby league across regional NSW.

“The CRL 9’s is all about having fun and getting an opportunity to play rugby league with your friends in an enjoyable environment,” she said.

“So far, we have seen about 300 female players register for the inaugural competitions across regional NSW, consisting of both new faces and players from other forms of the game.

“With the addition of ladies league tag in the senior Country Championships last year and the creation of the 9’s, there are more opportunities than ever for women to be involved in rugby league.

“We’re really excited to see Group 21 and Tamworth host competitions in 2017 – and I expect to see other regions adopt the CRL 9’s in the future.”

Aberdeen will accommodate the inaugural round at McKinnon Field on Friday, February 3.

Other fixtures are scheduled for Denman, Greta Branxton, Singleton, Merriwa and Muswellbrook, with the final to take place at Olympic Park.

Group 21 secretary Jane Walmsley said everyone was looking forward to the six-team competition.

“We weren’t quite sure what numbers we’d get, however the response has been good,” she admitted.

“Each match will consist of two nine-minute halves.

“To be honest, I think only five per cent of them are ready for the physical nature of the game.

“But, it’s great the girls have embraced the concept.

“In fact, they’ve been crying out for it.”