FREE rugby sessions for women and girls are being launched in the district, to encourage more females to try the sport.

The Warrior Camps, starting this weekend at clubs including Keighley and Horsforth RFC, offer a chance to try a new fitness regime, experience the basics of rugby and build new friendships.

Mothers and daughters (aged 13-plus) are invited to the camps, following research by Women In Sport suggesting that one in four young women are more likely to join a sport if their mothers also play.

The sessions follow the success of Warrior Camps, organised by England Rugby, over the past three years, which have seen 18,000 women and girls discover a love of rugby.

Sarah Hunter, England Red Rose captain, said: “It can often be daunting to try a new sport or get the motivation needed to go to the gym. Warrior Camps are the perfect opportunity to challenge yourself, and you can have fun and get fit at the same time.

“Warm-up activities, learning passing and catching skills, and fitness drills are combined to create these exciting sessions. Bringing a friend with you can help with the nerves but don’t worry if not; you’ll meet plenty of great ladies at the sessions. I’ve made friends for life!”

Steve Grainger, Rugby Development Director at the RFU, said: “2019 was a great year for women’s rugby with the Red Roses winning the Six Nations Grand Slam and continuing their winning streak at the Quilter Internationals this autumn.

“What better inspiration for any girls and women who might want to try it for themselves? We welcome anyone interested to head down to their local Warrior Camp this weekend to enjoy a rugby taster session in a fun and welcoming environment.”

England Rugby’s Inner Warrior campaign aims to attract more women to take up contact rugby. The camps teach key introductory skills and drills for rugby, with a sense of fun and help on hand each step of the way.

The taster sessions, taking place over five consecutive weekends, are free - all participants need to take part are a pair of trainers, usual workout gear and a ‘have a go’ attitude.

Each session will build on the previous week, increasing confidence and skills under the guidance of England Rugby community coaches. The sessions are also designed so that people can join at any time. And the Warrior Camps are also open to female players looking to get back into the game

Sessions take place every Saturday from January 11 to February 8, 10am-11am.

l For more information, or to register, visit englandrugby.com/innerwarrior.