Suttonians introduce their first women’s senior team

IT has been a long time coming but this season, Suttonians Rugby Club, now in its 90th year, is delighted to introduce its very first senior women’s team.

After much time and effort by club members and a large recruitment drive, the Northside club have taken yet another giant leap forward.

Aisling Halpin, a member of the team, told Northside People:

“Following the success and the excitement surrounding women’s rugby in recent years we decided that there was no time like the present to open the gate for any ladies wishing to be involved.

“I am a player on the ladies’ team and although we are newly established, I must commend the club on the overall set-up they have provided for us.

“I have played at four different clubs over the past 17 years and I must admit that I am highly impressed with the facilities available to the women’s team.

“Suttonians have ensured that all attention, opportunity and amenities for the senior women’s team are equal to that of the senior men’s team.

“In my opinion, not only is that highly motivational for our players but also for women’s club rugby in general.

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Aisling said the coaches are excellent.

“We are very lucky to have the Senior Leinster Women’s head coach, Robert Forbes, as the Director of Rugby,

? she stated.

“His involvement with the development of the women’s team has been and continues to be paramount to our success.

“Rob takes the ladies’ team for regular training clinics while Senior Leinster Women’s player, Sarah-Jane Cody, and Suttonians senior player, Conor Barron, coach the women’s team twice weekly.

“I am also very impressed with the facilities made available to us such as a physiotherapist, a nutritionist, fitness and conditioning plans, reduced gym memberships, pitch and dressing room availability and our very own uniquely designed jerseys and training gear.

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Aisling said the squad comprises an almost equal number of experienced players and complete newcomers which she believes makes it great for any ladies wishing to join.

“Whether you play another sport or have never played a sport in your life, we welcome everyone into our family.

? she stated.

“I say

‘family’ because that is exactly what we are.

“Although we work hard on the pitch, our main focus is always to have fun. There are fantastic social opportunities that come with being part of a rugby club and not only that but a large support network.

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The ladies’ team is open to women age 18 and over.

“It doesn’t matter if you have played a lot of rugby or none at all, we love to see our squad growing,

? added Aisling.

“We train from 7.15pm to 8.30pm every Tuesday and Thursday night and anyone is welcome to come down and join our family.

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Suttonians Rugby Club is located directly across the road from Sutton DART Station. If you would like more information, contact the manager, Hayley Burke, on 085-7231282 or on Facebook: Facebook.com/SuttoniansRFC Twitter:@SuttoniansRFC.