Huge interest sparks return of Shipston-on-Stour RFC's ladies section

THE overwhelming response to the launch of Shipston’s new and refreshed ladies section has left club chiefs over the moon.

After an online consultation to gauge interest, the first training session under floodlights kicked off with a healthy turnout of 30 ladies.

While the club has a popular girls section catering for those up to the age of 18, it has been a number of years since a ladies section played at Mayo Road.

Co-ordinator Simon Brown was overwhelmed with the response and the first session on 22nd November was attended by a mixture of complete newbies to the game, returnees and former mini and juniors players that had risen through the age groups.

Club chairman Andrew Powell told the Herald: “Brownie has been the driver of this from day one and his high-quality session proves beyond doubt the appetite is there to grow and develop the women’s game at Shipston.

“The skill level and desire are second to none and already the chatter in the group is about touch rugby, tag rugby and full contact.”

He added: “We strongly believe Shipston is a true community rugby club and Monday night is another piece of that jigsaw, further extending our offering to those in south Warwickshire and beyond.

“Whatever your age and whatever your ambition, we now offer coaching and playing on a Sunday up to 18 years old and beyond that on a Monday evening.

"If you are interested in coming along, please message us through our dedicated Facebook site or simply grab your boots and turn up on a Monday at 7pm.”