Now’s the time to try rugby

WOMEN’S rugby is enjoying a surge in interest in the aftermath of Ireland’s heroics at the World Cup in France, and one local club is keen to keep the ball rolling.

Clontarf Rugby Football Club will be following the formation of a women’s rugby squad last year with the addition of a girls’ under-15 squad.

Jim Stanley, Director of Rugby at Clontarf Rugby Club, explains: “We are determined to build on the success of the Irish Women’s rugby team at the World Cup and establish a power base for the game on the Northside of the city.

“The club has put together a dedicated team to nurture women’s and girls’ rugby through the initial stages of development.”

One member of this management team is senior squad Head Coach Ralph Mills.

“It’s a very exciting project to be involved in,

? says Mr Mills.

“We are building a programme from scratch to identify talented players who have had little or no exposure to rugby, and to fast-track their development into the regional and national stars of tomorrow.

“This is supported by a base of players of all levels who have discovered the fun and the camaraderie of rugby. It’s as much a family as a team.”

Aside from the support of both the club and team sponsors Hession Hairdressing, Mr Mills acknowledges the assistance of Leinster Rugby.

“They have been great,

? he says.

“There is the concerted effort to promote the women’s game in general, and they have helped with equipment and coaching sessions, too.

“It’s good to know that Clontarf Women’s Rugby is firmly on their radar.”

It also helps that Clontarf already boasts women’s rugby’s royalty in residence – Fiona Coghlan.

The recently retired captain of Ireland grew up around the corner and maintains strong ties with the club. She has already put in a shift training the Clontarf women. “That was some session,” adds Mr Mills.

“You could see the way the players responded – having Fiona there brought it home to everyone that something special was happening in the women’s game in Ireland and that we were a part of it.”

Aoife Teeling, openside flanker and Women’s Welfare Officer with the team, pointed out that the sport is for everyone.

“We range in age from 19 to 50,

? she states.

“We have players with their sights on an international career and those who just enjoy a run out with the girls.

“This year we’re competing in the Leinster Development League, which was set up to help new teams like ours find our feet in rugby competition.

“If you’ve ever thought about giving this a try, then now’s the time.”

Jim Stanley concurs.

“We welcome any women or girls who are interested in joining us in our quest to achieve the ambitious goals we have set,

? he adds.

Training for the squad is open to all women over 18, and takes place on Mondays and Wednesdays from this week at 7pm at Clontarf Rugby Club on Castle Avenue.

Training for the Girls’ under-15 squad takes place from September 7 on Sunday mornings at 11.30am at Clontarf Rugby Club.

For more information, phone 01-8336214 or email [email protected]

Meanwhile, Minister of State for Tourism and Sport, Michael Ring, congratulated the Irish team on their success in France.

“On behalf of the Irish people I am delighted to congratulate the Irish Women’s Rugby team on achieving fourth place at the World Cup,

? he said.

“An historic group stage win over four-time winners New Zealand and a first ever semi-final appearance was a fantastic achievement.

“Throughout the tournament, the team showed a great sense of team spirit and self-belief and I commend captain Fiona Coghlan and each of the players on their superb performances.

?

Minister Ring said the team has raised the profile of women’s rugby in Ireland and gained the respect of the rugby world.

Reform Alliance TD for Dublin Bay North, Terence Flanagan, also congratulated the team.

“It is amazing that Clontarf is home to both Fiona (Coghlan) and Brian O’Driscoll – two of the top people in rugby,

? he said.

“Everyone in the area is so proud of their success.

?