Bay of Plenty Rugby Union have appointed a new Women's Regional Development Officer.

A former Te Puke High School Girls' 1st XV who played club rugby in North Harbour, Hayley Kerrison is described as bringing a wealth of rugby knowledge to the position.

Photo: File.

Bay of Plenty Rugby Union chief executive Mike Rogers says a combination of Hayley's strong organisational skills, and her previous position at Sport Bay of Plenty as their Primary Schools Event Co-ordinator, makes her a great fit for the role.

'Hayley is very passionate about providing opportunities for young people and will have a real impact in developing pathways for our young female players,” says Mike.

'Along with her background within rugby, she will be a fantastic fit for the Union.” Mike says the role will assist them in fostering the development of Women's rugby within the region.

'The role will not only play an important part in the expansion of women's rugby in the community, but will assist future growth development of female athletes within the high performance sector,” he adds.

New Zealand Rugby Union head of women's rugby development Cate Sexton has welcomed the appointment, and believe it is an important step towards developing women's rugby in the Bay of Plenty.

'The women's game is growing and we need to provide support and resources so girls and women of any age and ability have an opportunity to play rugby,” says Cate.

'We know there's a lot of interest and talent out there, and the Bay of Plenty is a major hub for women's rugby. We're really looking forward to having Hayley as a champion for our game.”

Hayley says she is excited by the new opportunity.

She admits: 'I am looking forward to working with the regional community to develop and increase the profile of women's rugby in the Bay of Plenty region.”

Hayley starts her new position on Monday, October 12.