Photo: Rugby Australia Media - Karen Watson

This weekend the fourth and final round of the AON Uni 7’s takes place at the University of Canberra (UC). Second year Physiotherapy student and UC inside back Claudia Obst talks about the development of women’s rugby 7’s and the improvement in competition.

“The AON Uni7’s series has been a really important step for women’s rugby 7s and its development, with the standard in the competition improving each year,” said Claudia.

“It is a great opportunity for girls to showcase their abilities and keep improving their skills in a semi-professional environment, while it also gives the girls a direct pathway to competing at higher levels,” she said.

Balancing study commitments with sport can be a challenge for any athlete, however support networks are key according to Claudia.

“To become the best player I can be, I need to keep developing my skills and building consistency,” said Claudia.

“It can be difficult at times however I’m surrounded by a very solid support network who do all they can to help me be my best on the field and in class,” she said.

“UC has provided us with endless support and services to ensure we are able to perform at our best come tournament time,” said Claudia.

“The amount of time and effort put in by our coaching staff behind the scenes is unbelievable, and has been a large input into our success,” she said.

When it comes to rivalry, everyone has that one team they look forward to playing the most.

“I’m looking forward to playing the University of Sydney (USYD),” said Claudia.

“It’s always a tough, close game against them and I think if we keep to our structure, play our game and start the game on the front foot we can really stick it to them and come out with the win,” she said.

Photo: Rugby Australia Media - Karen Watson

In terms of who to beat, look no further than last year’s champions.

“The girls and I would love to beat Griffith Uni (GU),” said Claudia.

“We fell just short in our bronze medal match against them in Adelaide, so we really want to come out strong and get the win on home turf,” she said.

Round four of the AON Uni 7’s is at the University of Canberra this Saturday 26 October with finals to be held on Sunday 27 October.

University of Canberra take on the University of Adelaide in their first game of round four at 9.00am on Saturday morning.

All games will be live streamed on rugby.com.au.