RFU to expand women’s game

The women’s game is set for an unprecedented boost after the RFU announced plans to introduce rugby to 100,000 women and girls across the country.
The strategy, launched yesterday at the Houses of Parliament, aims to capitalise on the growing popularity of the women’s game following England‘s triumph at the World Cup last month.
It aims to grow the game to see 25,000 women and girls taking part in contact rugby by 2017, while expanding the reach of the game to attract more coaches, volunteers, officials, social players and fans
The women and girl’s game has seen great growth over the past 12 months with playing numbers increasing from 15,000 to 18,000 – double the growth seen in any other year – making England the largest female rugby playing population in the world.
England vice-captain Sarah Hunter, said: “It really feels like something has changed in our sport, and I am hugely excited about what the future holds for women’s rugby.
“It was great to be in the Houses of Parliament to help launch the strategy. It will hopefully inspire lots more women and girls to give rugby a go, with many no doubt getting hooked like us.”
Minister for Sport Helen Grant added: “The future of women’s rugby at the elite level is bright.
“England’s Women’s team are an inspiration to women and girls coming into the sport, particularly after their brilliant World Cup win.
“I welcome the RFU’s strategy to get more women involved in the game be that as players, coaches or volunteers.”