England Rugby and Girlguiding expand partnership to inspire more young players
England Rugby is continuing to grow the women's and girls’ game by expanding its partnership with Girlguiding regions across England.
Following the success of its collaboration with Girlguiding London and South East England earlier this year, England Rugby is now teaming up with Girlguiding South West England and Girlguiding North West England.
The partnerships will introduce the new Love Rugby badge, allowing Rainbows, Brownies, Guides, and Rangers to build and develop rugby skills while engaging in off-the-pitch activities such as writing a letter to a Red Rose or baking a treat to boost energy during rugby games.
Red Rose and former Brownie, Sarah Bern said: “I was involved in Brownies from a young age, and it really helped me develop my teamwork skills as well as my confidence in myself. This has been a huge benefit to me in my rugby career, as we always have to work together as a team to achieve a common goal. I can’t wait to see lots of girls complete the Love Rugby badge and be inspired to take up rugby in 2025.”
With the expansion of this initiative, even more girls will have the opportunity to experience the game, build confidence, and develop skills both on and off the pitch.
The collaboration will focus on T1 Rugby sessions and will enable participants to connect with local clubs, providing a space to continue playing after completing the badge.
Since launching in February, the partnership has already introduced 1,962 girls to rugby through the badge, with 50 Girlguiding units pairing up with 42 rugby clubs.
Clubs are already seeing the benefits of the collaboration, with a recent event at Sheppey Rugby Club seeing over 100 Girl Guides attend and eight girls expressing an interest in joining the club.
Rona Rommel, Region Chief Commissioner Girlguiding North West England, said: “We’re thrilled to partner with England Rugby to offer our members an exciting introduction to non-contact rugby. This collaboration aligns perfectly with our mission to empower girls and young women, providing them with fun, fitness, and the opportunity to develop valuable life skills.
“We can’t wait to see our members embrace the ‘Love Rugby’ challenge and be inspired by the upcoming Women’s Rugby World Cup in 2025.”
The collaboration will focus on T1 Rugby sessions and will enable participants to connect with local clubs, providing a space to continue playing after completing the badge.
With the Women’s Rugby World Cup 2025 in England only 137 days away, these exciting partnerships are providing more girls and young women the opportunity to be introduced to the sport and accelerate engagement in what is set to be a momentous year for the women’s game.
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