Girls join the pack at Bideford RFC as World Cup fever takes over

It has been a wonderful six weeks for the growth and development of female rugby in the UK, and North Devon is feeling the brunt of enthusiasm after England’s sensational victory over Canada in the World Cup Final.

The Red Roses were sensational throughout the tournament, culminating in Saturday’s victory at a sold-out Twickenham, and the wave of excitement was felt particularly keenly in the South-West with so many games played at Exeter’s Sandy Park and in Bristol.

The female section of Bideford Rugby Club was already flourishing with four age groups playing on the girls’ side and a senior women’s team competing at a very good level.

Building on the momentum of the Red Roses, Bideford RFC hosted a ‘Join the Pack’ party at the club for the Final and the door is open for more youngsters to become part of this special rugby family.

“At Bideford, we get a steady flow of youngsters playing rugby,” said Sarah-Jane ‘Griggy’ Palmer. “It can be hard work to get the juniors interested in watching rugby but hosting the amazing World Cup Final was designed to increase numbers even more.

“The day was billed as ‘Join the Pack’ and we now hope that England’s victory will see another flurry of interest. We run all four age groups on the girls’ side of the game, U12, U14, U16 and the U18 Vixens, who are the equivalent to the Colts.

“We train together as a whole squad from 6.15pm on a Tuesday and anyone interested in coming along can just give me a call on 07972 728000 for more information.”

The players at Bideford benefit hugely from a holistic approach at the club, with all made to feel welcome, and they have worked incredibly hard to keep the girls motivated through the testing times of teenage years and changing lifestyles.

Thankfully, the hook of playing rugby with friends is extremely powerful, and long may that continue.

“The challenge we get with the U18s is they are now all starting College or weekend jobs, but once we’ve got them, the players are hooked on the game,” added Sarah-Jane.

“We describe ourselves as a rugby family and it is incredible to see the girls grow in confidence through new friendships and a shared love of the game. Once they are hooked, they tend to stay in rugby.

“Even as the girls get older and go through hormonal stages, they will still turn up because this is where their friends are and where they feel most comfortable.

“On the adult side, the World Cup generated so much excitement. Everybody embraced the tournament and the men’s side of the club has been just as excited.

“We are very lucky at Bideford to be treated equally and very much supported in all our endeavours, which goes a long way for all of us. I was at the semi-final in Bristol and the clubhouse was packed for that game as well.”