Warrior Camps took place in 100 rugby clubs across the country during January.
The Warrior Camps were launched as part of England Rugby’s ‘Meet Your Inner Warrior’ campaign which kicked off on January 11 aimed at getting more women playing contact rugby.
Bath RFC had one of the highest number of attendees, with around 80 women braving the elements to reveal their Inner Warriors, while Driffield RUFC saw 28 girls and women attend their Warrior Camp, including seven new U13s and six new women.
Steve Grainger, RFU Rugby Development Director, said “It’s been great to see women of all ages and abilities attend the Warrior Camps and get behind the new campaign. With so many new recruits attending the sessions we’re making extremely positive steps in bringing more women into the game. We want to encourage women to pick up a rugby ball and experience the sense of belonging, camaraderie and sportsmanship that comes with playing for their local rugby team.”
Since launching ‘Meet Your Inner Warrior’, 1,000 people have attended Warrior Camps nationwide, the creative film attracted over 120k views within 24hrs of launch and the campaign has achieved 3.7million in reach.
Bury RFC mixed playing with some social fun, hosting ‘Cream Team and Prosecco’ following their Warrior Camp. This worked a treat, serving up 36 new players for the session in addition to 14 existing players, of which all were made to feel completely welcome. The day culminated in a raffle raising £1,000 for the club.
Similarly, Hartlepool Rovers RFC had a successful Warrior Camp, with 13 new players attending, all with an infectious enthusiasm and desire to give rugby a try.
Hartlepool Rover coach Darren Smith has big ambitions for the club.
“We started with just two female rugby players in June 2015 and have now grown to over 40 across juniors to seniors. We hope to continue to build on this across the coming season and encourage more girls to try the sport.”
Rushden and Higham RFC had an extra special guest in attendance, personal trainer Chloe Madeley. Chloe took part in the Warrior Camp, trying her hand at rugby for the first time.
Chloe said, “I had a great time taking part in the Warrior Camp at Rushden and Higham RFC. If you want to get into fitness while doing something social at the same time, I would recommend you give rugby a go. Not only are you getting active but you get to be with a load of girls who are happy to get muddy and have a laugh. It’s honestly so much fun.”
Rt. Hon Amanda Solloway MP attended the Derby RFC Warrior Camp and, seeing all the fun they were having, swiftly borrowed socks, boots and a top from the club so she could join in.
The next set of Warrior Camps will take place in May 2017. To stay tuned on news and upcoming Warrior Camp dates, register your details here.
Report courtesy of the RFU
