DUTCH WOMEN LOOKED PRETTY IN PINK at HONG KONG SEVENS

The Dutch placed third over Australia at Hong Kong 7s (view full scores). They also showed their support for the Pink Ribbon Foundation’s quest against breast cancer by wearing an all pink strip. Read the press release below:

from http://www.rugby.nl/:

Hong Kong- The Netherlands Samurai Ladies team has landed and will contest for more than just silverware at this week’s Hong Kong Women’s Rugby Sevens Tournament.

The team will show their support for the Pink Ribbon Foundation’s quest against breast cancer by wearing an all pink strip which has been designed by Samurai, the official supplier to the Dutch Rugby Union. Tessa Veldhuis, member of the National Dutch 7’s side, said: “What a huge honor it is to work alongside the Pink Ribbon Foundation who do so much great work in the fight against breast cancer. Playing in aid of such a great cause will give us an extra incentive when we run out onto the field proudly dressed in pink”. David Clarke, Marketing Manager of Samurai Sportswear in aide of the partnership, said: “We are thrilled to support the Netherlands Samurai Ladies for the Hong Kong 7s and delighted to be working with the team and the Dutch Rugby Union to raise awareness for the Pink Ribbon Foundation.”

Marieke Leurink-ten Hove from Pink Ribbon in the Netherlands importantly points out that “One in eight women are affected by the disease and this is a fantastic opportunity to work alongside the Dutch Women’s Sevens team, who have committed themselves to contribute to our cause in raising breast cancer awareness amongst women and rugbysupporters”.

The Dutch have entered an invitational team into the Hong Kong Women’s Rugby Sevens tournament in association with team sponsor Samurai.

Terry Sands, Playing Chairmen of Samurai International RFC, said: “It is a fantastic opportunity to work with the NRB under the Netherlands Samurai Ladies banner for the Hong Kong 7s. The team have had a good start to the season and getting the players as much playing time on the International Stage is vital. I’m sure the Ladies will thrive on the buzz that exists here and gain massively from the experience.”

Hong Kong Women’s Rugby Sevens tournament organiser Ruth Mitchell, believes “they´ve helped the development of the women´s game via 36 different countries previously taken part over the last 16 years.

The iconic tournament will act as timely preparation for the Dutch who will re-group after the competition as the Netherlands National Team and turn their attention back to the two remaining tournaments left on the inaugural IRB Women’s Sevens World Series with Guangzhou, China (30/31 May) gearing up to host the 3rd leg and the city of Amsterdam is getting ready to host the World Series finale on May 17/18.

TEAM FOR HONG KONG WOMEN’S 7’s TOURNAMENT – 22nd March
1. Pein Selbeck
2. Tessel van Dongen
3. Anne Hielckert
4. Lorraine Laros
5. Kate Bradshaw
6. Anne Marie van Rossum
7. Kelly van Harskamp
8. Jannieke Lijdens
9. Velicia Oehlers
10. Linda Franssen (cap)
11. Tessa Veldhuis
12. Nicole Kwee