Shrewsbury RUFC celebrates major boost for women’s rugby

Shrewsbury RUFC's women's section has grown to two teams after 39 women took part in an intrasquad match.

The fixture at Sundorne Castle on Sunday, August 30, marked the end of a six-week Inner Warrior programme aimed at introducing women to rugby and helping the club expand its women's section.

Fourteen of those taking part made their rugby debuts, while another 10 players made their first appearances in a match during a pre-season friendly against Stafford RUFC Women the previous week.

The summer programme ran alongside the first team's pre-season training, giving new players the opportunity to learn the fundamentals of rugby, develop their skills and build confidence.

For the final fixture, two squads - Shrewsbury Blues and Shrewsbury Reds - were formed, bringing together experienced players and new recruits.

The Reds eventually claimed a narrow 22-20 victory after a closely fought contest. The Blues had a chance to snatch the win with a last-minute penalty, but the kick fell short.

Jordan Bixley, captain of Shrewsbury RUFC's women's team, said: “To have 39 women play and to be able to field two teams is something we can all be incredibly proud of.

“Seeing everyone come together, support one another and compete against each other was brilliant. We had injured players on the sidelines cheering on their peers, gatherings of family and friends showing their support, and even a former player running the line as a touch judge official.”

She added: “I think the biggest win is seeing the progression and growth of all our players, experienced and new, in such a short space of time. Hopefully this is the start of something really exciting for women’s rugby at Shrewsbury.”

Head coach Rob Edison said the match was a “fantastic way to finish the six-week programme”.

“To have 39 women involved, including 14 making their rugby debuts, is a huge achievement,” he said.

“The match itself was brilliant. It was competitive, it went right down to the wire, and the Blues even had a chance to steal a win with that final penalty.

“The fact there was only a two-point difference on the scoreboard proves just how quickly our new players have developed over the summer, and that’s what matters most.”

He added: “I am incredibly proud of them all, and excited to see the continued growth, strength and depth of women’s rugby at Shrewsbury RUFC.”

The recruitment drive has helped the club establish a second women's team, creating further opportunities for players at different stages of their rugby journeys.

The women's team continues to welcome new players, including those who have never played rugby before. Training takes place on Mondays and Wednesdays from 7pm to 8.30pm at Shrewsbury RUFC in Uffington.

You can follow Shrewsbury RUFC Women’s progress on social media, or to find out more, visit the club’s website.