Taster is part of England Rugby programme to boost female participation

Haringey Rhinos are extending an invitation to local women to meet their Inner Warrior at a free rugby taster event.

Developed by England Rugby, the ‘Meet Your Inner Warrior’ campaign is aimed at women and girls to encourage greater female participation in contact rugby across the country.

From May 12-21, more than 150 Warrior Camps will take place at rugby clubs across England, with the hope of attracting over 1,000 players to the sport — sports kit and trainers will be the only equipment needed.

Haringey will be holding their event at the New River Sports Centre on White Hart Lane on Saturday, May 20, from 12pm to 2pm, with players of all abilities welcome.

Women’s club captain Samantha Shirley is hoping that Haringey’s Warrior Camp will inspire newcomers to fall in love with rugby.

“We’ve got team that plays competitively, but we have to tell some players that they can’t play on a weekend because we’ve only got one XV,” said the 33-year-old, who works as a beauty therapist.

“We’ve got a lot of young girls that are 16 or 17 that also want to play, but they have to wait until they’re 18.

“We’re looking to try and expand, and we also want to try and get a lot more young girls involved in our youth section so that they’re ready to bridge that gap — hopefully this event will really help with that.

“We want anyone to come and take part. We’re going to have a touch session and we also want to get across how important the discipline and mental strength involved in rugby is.”

The first round of Inner Warrior camps in January saw more than 1,500 women and girls enjoy their first taste of rugby, many of whom have continued their participation within the sport.

And as the RFU look to further expand the number of females involved in the sport, the continued success of the Inner Warrior campaign is a top priority.

England Women’s player Sarah McKenna said: “The Warrior Camps are perfect for those keen to get involved, get outdoors, keep fit and make friends.

“I’ve gained so much from rugby, both on and off the pitch, and would challenge everyone to step out of their comfort zone and meet their Inner Warrior.”

From May 12-21, over 150 Warrior Camps will take place in rugby clubs across England. To sign up or register your interest, head to www.englandrugby.com/innerwarrior.