Rugby ladies are '˜pitch perfect'!

England coach Gary Street directs the players at Pitch up and Play

The day led to more women picking up a rugby ball for the first time, getting stuck in and having a load of fun.

So, if you thought rugby was a sport just for men, think again – with participation in women’s rugby doubling in the past 10 years and England Women’s Rugby Team being the reigning 15-a-side world champions, it is only about to get better.

First timer, Emma Gentry said: “I’ve never thought of playing rugby before.

“But everybody has made me feel so welcome and I’ve had an amazing day getting stuck in.

“I will definitely be going to training every Wednesday evening.”

Held in partnership with England Rugby, #RugbyWomen, Harrogate Rugby Club had some extra special guests attend the day – England players Tamara Taylor and Abbie Scott plus England Women’s coaches Gary Street and Matt Ferguson.

The Harrogate Ladies thank everyone who helped make Pitch Up and Play a huge success.

England coach Matt Ferguson with some of the ladies players

Harrogate Ladies are an established team who play in a league.

Their focus is to encourage women into the sport with enjoyable and fun sessions so whether you are brand new to rugby, or a returning player, they are the club for you.

Join them on a Wednesday for training from 7pm or email team manager [email protected] for further details of additional training nights.