Around 140 Central girls got a taste of sports usually dominated by boys - cricket, rugby and soccer - at Alexandra’s Molyneux Park this week (December 1).

The Fern Fever sports day was a collaboration for girls in years five to eight only, between three sporting associations: Football South, Otago Cricket and Otago Rugby.

Cricket development officer Sophie Gray said the activities included modified and inclusive games in a fun and safe girls-only environment to build skills in cricket, football and rugby.

Full pace: the girls played soccer against their peers

Alexandra Primary, Clyde School, Cromwell College, Cromwell Primary, Omakau School and The Terrace School sent groups of students to take part in four sport filled hours from 10am - 2pm. 

The games were designed for all levels, whether the girls had little to no experience in these sports, as well as those already playing the three codes on offer.

VIDEO Flags Learning about sideline flag signals for soccer referees was a fun activity for participants.

Music created a festival vibe and playing sport and ‘giving it a go‘ was paramount. 

Groups rotated around eight skills stations covering passing, scoring tries, dribbling, hitting the wickets, umpire flag movements and relays. Small sided games were played like non-stop cricket, rippa rugby, bull rush and soccer with a giant ball.

Learning cricket fielding skills

Coaches from the three sporting associations were on hand to inspire youngsters, including player representatives from the Otago Spirit rugby team.

Teachers and students relished the chance to be outdoors -  the weather even played ball with a warm summer day, a few clouds and temperature of approximately 20’C. 

Silky soccer skills were on display with a giant inflatable ball

Feedback from participants said the day was well organised and they would definitely be back if the event is held again.

VIDEO Rugby Teamwork on show as girls throw the oval ball around.