Rugby: Sullivan to join front-row mates in century club

Pirates front-rowers (from left) Gemma Tuhega, Jess Tuhega and Courtney Sullivan are ready to take on University in the women's club final on Saturday. Photo by Peter McIntosh.
Pirates front-rowers (from left) Gemma Tuhega, Jess Tuhega and Courtney Sullivan are ready to take on University in the women's club final on Saturday. Photo by Peter McIntosh.
Courtney Sullivan is about to bring up her century of games for her club but she is still the rookie of the front row.

Sullivan (29), a loosehead prop, will play her 100th game in the Pirates front row in the women's club final at Hancock Park on Saturday.

Beside her as they have been for most of the past decade will be the Tuhega sisters.

Jess Tuhega (33), a hooker, has played 170 games for Pirates since 1999 while sister Gemma Tuhega (31) has played 157 games for the club since 2000.

Packing more than 400 club games of experience should be a bonus for Pirates on Saturday when the side takes on University but the team has been there plenty of times before and come away empty-handed.

Despite playing that many games, Jess has yet to win a women's title.

''I was pregnant in 2011 the only time we have won it in recent times.

"So I had to stand on the sidelines watching and screaming,'' she said.

She joked the excitment of the win in 2011 led to the arrival of son Tatum (3) a couple of days after the final.

She said Pirates have been the bridesmaids too often.

''We have been to so many semis and finals but just dipped out so we really want to win this one.''

The trio had always enjoyed playing with each other and Sullivan said it was great to get to 100 games as it was something she had aimed for at the start of the season.

Jess said the number of games played for the club was not something the trio, who are all teachers, discussed much but it showed dedication.

''It is pretty cool. I think it shows a lot of commitment and loyalty to play 100 games or over.

"The experience really helps but as for the fitness, well, I'm not sure,''

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