Girls and womens rugby is on the rise across the country. The RFU reporting a 50% rise in the numbers of players over the last five years from 2019 and the success of the England Women’s Rugby Team, "the Red Roses", has been a driving force behind this rise. With multiple Six Nations Championships and a World Cup runner-up finish in 2022, the team has captured the nation’s attention and is inspiring a new generation of players.

American superstar Ilona Maher, who has 8 Million followers across TikTok and Instagram, has recently joined the Bristol Bears playing in the Premiership womens rugby (PWR). In her debut match just over 9,000 supporters went to watch and cement the rise of the women's game.

Looking to capitalise on this popularity, Chesterfield Panthers are hosting a taster session for U12 girls at Dunston on Sunday 26th January, from 1.00-3.00pm. Head of the girls rugby section at Chesterfield Richard Waterhouse said this "Girls rugby is just growing and growing. Here in Derbyshire we have a great offering and can support new players looking to join and try the sport out. This taster session is a perfect opportunity for new girls to come down and see what it's all about".

On Sunday 19th January, Chesterfield girls joined up with Ilkeston to play against an U12s team from Long Eaton in Nottinghamshire. In an even and well contested match, Long Eaton edged it on the scoreline, but the Derbyshire combined team performed admirably and scored some excellent tries and played well altogether. The standout moment coming when a player kicked the ball out of hand over the advancing defenders, chased and touched down the ball to score a fantastic solo try.

U12 girls coach Steve Lord said this about the upcoming open session "If you like to get a bit muddy, being physical, or just running around then rugby has got something for everyone. We want to make the game enjoyable for all our players, develop their skills, and watch them grow up as a team and individuals."

Running from 1pm to 3pm the taster session is free to attend, open to girls in Year 6 and Year 7 at school and is being held at Chesterfield Panthers ground in Dunston. For more information please go to the club website.

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