After a successful Rugby League World Cup, both England’s men’s and women’s teams were knocked out at the semi-final stage.
Despite the disappointment of not getting to the final, there is a bigger conversation to be had around the legacy effect on the women’s game in this country.
A key part will be England Rugby League’s HerLegacy sessions being run by Super League clubs, community clubs and foundations. One of these sessions is being put on by the Huddersfield Giants Community Trust and will take place at Newsome Panthers on Wednesday December 7 starting at 5.30pm and finishing at 7.45pm.
Session organiser and head of the Giants’ women’s team James Westerby said: “It’s an initiative following the success of the England’s women’s team at the World Cup. The club foundations were asked to put on some sessions to try and get more girls into playing rugby and help inspire the next generation.
“The session will be split into three age groups across the evening, 5-8, 9-12 and 13-16. We also have two of the England team coming along to the sessions in Shona Hoyle and Olivia Wood and they’ll help run those sessions along with our staff in Jacob and Brandon. Hopefully the sessions will give the girls a good idea of what rugby league is all about.
“We have over 50 girls already signed up to the session which is brilliant. Women’s rugby has definitely had an upturn in players and spotlight over the last few years and we are helping to continue to grow that.”
On partnering with Newsome Panthers Westerby added: “To hold it at one of our community clubs is brilliant. Obviously it’s not just about that particular club, however.
“These sessions are for any girls across the Huddersfield and wider West Yorkshire area to come and have a taste of rugby league. However, it is brilliant to see that the Panthers have just recently set up their own girls’ team this year.”
On hosting the event at Newsome, club secretary Becky Roberts said: “Newsome Panthers are extremely proud to be hosting the HerLegacy Coaching Sessions in association with Huddersfield Giants Community Trust.
“We started 2022 with four girls playing in our U11s. Fast forward just six months and we have three up and coming teams registered for the 2023 season.
“The girls have spent the last couple of weeks watching the Rugby League World Cup and now, to get the opportunity to learn and be inspired by two of our England Rugby League Women is amazing!
“We want to give everyone the opportunity to try rugby league so if you have a daughter, grand-daughter, sister, cousin or friend who wants to try rugby league then get in touch.”
Find out more about the session HERE.
