New WRU Head of Participation Ryan Jones last night kicked off the #TryOurGame initiative to encourage more women to play rugby.

Former Wales captain Jones, who starts in the role on Monday, took part in the first of a series of introductory rugby sessions, to be held around Wales during the Six Nations period.

The sessions are free and for all females over 16 who have either never played the game or used to play and fancy giving it another go.

Jones, who joined Wales Women internationals Shona Powell-Hughes and Cerys Hale at Bedwas RFC said, “With the RBS 6 Nations, Women’s Six Nations and Under 20 Six Nations in full swing, now’s the perfect time to see if rugby could also be for you.

“The health benefits of playing sport are clear, and rugby has the added advantage of creating a fun environment, where everyone is welcome. If you enjoy yourself we can put you in touch with a local club or you can get involved with summer Touch Rugby – or if you find playing’s not for you, there are lots more roles to find out about.”

The sessions are light hearted with no pressure to carry on. The next session is at Cardiff High School next Saturday (February 20), 10am – 12, followed by Ebbw Vale Sports Centre on Saturday 27 February and sessions at Neath, Abergele and Mold on Sunday 28 February. For the full list and to register for a session, go to www.wru.wales/tryourgame All sessions are free of charge.

National Women’s Rugby Manager Caroline Spanton said, “Rugby is for everyone, for all ages and abilities. Whether girls, and ladies, go on to develop a love for the game and decide they want to join a club, or prefer to play some touch rugby during the summer months, which in itself has huge health and social benefits and fits in easily with busy lives, I would encourage anyone to give these sessions a try. The coaches are friendly and will cater sessions according to ability and desire.

“We are seeing a huge growth in demand to play rugby, from younger girls in particular, and we are catering for that age group within the school-club hubs and by creating new cluster centres which will be in place in time for the spring and summer.”

Audio

Wales U20 reaction

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