From Breakaway to Breakthrough: The Inspiring Story of Broughton Women's RFC In the world of grassroots rugby, few stories are as compelling as that of Broughton Women's RFC—a club that has transformed from a small group of determined players seeking a new home into one of Edinburgh's most inclusive rugby communities. A New Beginning Born from Adversity The story begins in 2010 when a group of players at another club in Edinburgh found themselves at a crossroads. Conflicts over player treatment had reached a breaking point, and these passionate rugby players were left searching for a club they could call home. Enter Grant Hutchison and Mark Brown from Broughton RFC—two committee members who would change the trajectory of women's rugby at their club forever. What started as discussions quickly blossomed into something extraordinary. Led by future club president Rebecca Long, these pioneering women took to the Wardie slope with determination and vision. Alongside players like Billie, Shona Roche, Hannah Folely, Amanda Brindley, Jen Harris, Laura Kinghorn, and Sharon Forsyth, they laid the foundation for what would become a formidable women's section. More Than Just Support—True Equality From day one, Broughton RFC embraced their new female members with genuine commitment. This wasn't tokenism or reluctant accommodation; it was wholehearted acceptance. The club donated equipment and kit, ensuring the women's team could train and compete on equal footing with their male counterparts. The "one club ethos" wasn't just a slogan; it was a lived reality. Training areas were shared equally, match days were respected, and the clubhouse doors were always open. This commitment to gender equality is built on a rich history of female members who have been integral to building, furnishing, and running the club since the 1960s. The numbers speak to this commitment: over 14 years, the club has seen two female club presidents, two female vice presidents, two female secretaries, four female women's team coaches, and one female men's team coach. This isn't just progress, it's transformation. Achievements That Matter While silverware tells one story, Broughton's achievements run much deeper. Co-coach, Lorna Murdoch, shared some poignant moments with us. Their 2014 bowl competition victory against Ayr remains a defining moment, as does their recent semi-final appearance in the shield competition. But perhaps more meaningful is their league victory against rivals Dundee this season, a hard-fought 32-21 win that exemplified everything the club stands for. “We were playing Dundee, our closest rivals, with both teams fighting for the top of the league. It’s always a tough, close game against them. They’d beaten us earlier in the season, and we were determined to turn that around—and we did. The game was intense, neck-and-neck the entire way. As fullback, I had this unique perspective of seeing the whole pitch unfold in front of me. I could see how hard we’d worked to gel as a team, to understand each other and execute our game plan. Watching it all come together, I felt in complete awe of my teammates. We won 32-21. It was an emotional win—one we had all worked for, whether playing that day or not. I cried my eyes out. I was just so proud of how we’d pushed each other and ourselves.” - Lucy Hanna. What makes this club special isn't just winning games; it's about witnessing complete beginners light up the pitch, seeing hard work pay off in moments of pure rugby magic. “Every season has a special factor. The last few seasons have been particularly special by the number of new players who have joined the club. We have had debut players in almost every game of this season, some of whom are completely new to the sport. It’s a passion of this club to grow the sport and we feel that it has been come a hugely successful part of our culture.” – Lorna Murdoch. A Personal Journey of Belonging Lucy Hanna shares her story on how she came to call Broughton her club: “Rugby had been missing from my life for 15 years. When I moved to Edinburgh, I didn’t know where to start, so I asked in a Facebook group about women’s rugby teams. The response was overwhelming—so many clubs reached out, but the comments from Broughton players stood out. Their messages were warm, personal, and genuine. People shared how joining Broughton had "changed their life" or how they’d "made friends for life." They assured me it didn’t matter whether I’d played before or not; the club was open to everyone. It sounded like exactly what I needed, and it turned out to be even more than I could have hoped for. Being part of Broughton has given me a huge sense of purpose. At school, I struggled to fit in. When I found rugby in P7, it felt like I’d found my place. But that sense of belonging disappeared when I was 15 and the girls’ section dissolved. Looking back, I think I lost my way after that. Fast forward to joining Broughton at 27, and I found that acceptance again. Of course, I love playing the game—I’m competitive, and I enjoy the physical side of it—but the impact goes far deeper than that. Broughton has given me confidence that spills over into every aspect of my life. The support I’ve received from my team and coaches is unreal, and I’m proud to give that support back. When I struggle to show up for myself, I show up for them. There’s something special about friendships forged in sport. I’d even argue they have a quality that ordinary friendships don’t. But that’s something you’ll need to experience for yourself.”   Looking to the Future With over 40 members in their women's team, Broughton is thinking bigger. Their goals are ambitious yet grounded: maintain their position as one of Edinburgh's most inclusive clubs while pursuing competitive success. They're diversifying revenue through innovative sponsorship packages and increasing community engagement, recently hosting events for local GAA teams and Andy's Man Club. Katie Booth-McKeand, co-captain of the Women’s 1XV, shares what changes she would like to see in women’s rugby in Scotland: “ In the short term, women’s games played on Saturday rather than Sunday. This would open up the opportunity for big club days, raise the profile of women’s rugby and demonstrate that clubs and the SRU believe the women’s game deserves the same stage as the men’s. It’s great to see Premiership teams now playing on a Saturday. In the longer term, it’d be great if we could explore how to further close the gap between the top Prem teams and others - ultimately leading to greater variety in fixtures, and more competitive games!” Libby McCue, co-coach Women’s 1XV, gives an insight into what you can expect when joining Broughton RFC. “We continually look to tailor our sessions to develop new and experienced players alike. We have a particular focus in pre-season on preparing new players in both skills and fitness to cope with the demands of competitive rugby. Off pitch, we break down barriers in team sport by giving information on what players need to know, both in terms of kit and what’s involved in the preparation for games, and have an active team chat and social events.”   More Than a Game At its heart, Broughton Women's RFC represents something profound: the power of sport to build community, foster belonging, and transform lives. They've proven that when a club truly commits to inclusion and equality, everyone benefits. Their depth as a squad isn't just about having enough players—it's about creating an environment where everyone plays their part, where individual success serves the collective good. They don't play for themselves; they play for each other. As Broughton looks toward another century of rugby, they carry with them the lessons of these transformative 14 years: that sport at its best creates family, that inclusion strengthens rather than dilutes excellence, and that sometimes the most important victories happen long after the final whistle. We at Muddy Roots would like to thank Louise Murray-Forsyth, Lorna Murdoch, Katie Booth-McKeand, Lucy Hanna, and Libby McCue for sharing their experiences and history of Broughton Women's RFC. Also, previous president Mark Brown for providing photographs. Interested in joining Broughton Women's RFC? Visit our ‘find your local club’ page for social media channels or contact the club directly. Whether you're a seasoned player or have never touched a rugby ball, you'll find a warm welcome at Wardie.

From 4 Players to League Champions: The Inspiring Journey of Bishopton Ladies Rugby When Bishopton Ladies Rugby officially kicked off on January 28 th  2018, nobody could have predicted the remarkable transformation that would unfold over the next six years. What started as club president Andy Jackson's vision for "the next step for the club" has evolved into a championship-winning team that's rewriting the narrative of women's rugby in the West of Scotland. Humble Beginnings: When Dreams Seemed Impossible The early days were far from glamorous. One of the founding members, Kirstie Brownlie, recalls  "I remember it used to be on a Friday night at Renfrew sports centre and some weeks only 4 or 5 players were there, and it was so hard to imagine ever playing a full 15-a-side game.”. The journey from bootcamp-style fitness sessions to full contact rugby wasn't easy – roughly half the original players decided contact rugby wasn't for them.   First training session, 28th January 2018 The challenges were real and daunting. When the team joined the national bowl, they didn't have enough players to field 15 a side, let alone a full squad of 22. This led to a temporary amalgamation with Cumbernauld Ladies to form "Bishernauld" until they were strong enough to stand alone.   Bishernauld But even in those uncertain times, there was something special brewing. As current captain Kirstie reflects, "Although I don't ever remember the coaches or players really talking about worries of the team folding, for a long time we had a lot of uncertainty about what the future would hold." Breaking Through: First Victories That Changed Everything Every team has defining moments, and for Bishopton Ladies, their first league win against Wigtownshire was pure magic. The 19-5 victory against a team sitting third in the league while Bishopton were at the bottom was more than just three points – it was validation. "We were seen as a team that was easy to beat and lots of teams in the league were frequently putting big scores against us, so we never, ever thought we'd beat a team like them. I remember when the final whistle went, folk crying with happiness and celebrating as though we'd won the league." Bishopton v Wigtownshire, 19-5 Another milestone came with their first victory against Hamilton, a team they'd always seen as their closest rival. "For years we'd always seen them as our closest rival and had somehow always come up short and every time we lost you could feel the team's frustration, so when we finally managed to beat them it was incredible." The growth from those early struggles to recent dominance is perhaps best illustrated by this season's 89-0 victory over the same Hamilton side. As Kirstie puts it: "We were once getting beaten by that much week in week out, we saw them as our closest rivals and dreamed of the day we could finally beat them, to now having that score just shows how far we as a team have come."   Bishopton v Hamilton, 89-0 Personal Transformations: More Than Just Rugby The impact of Bishopton Ladies extends far beyond the rugby pitch. For captain Kirstie, who joined because of her New Year's resolution, rugby has been life-changing: "Rugby has changed my life in several ways, I truly believe it has given me confidence and leadership skills that have allowed me to progress in my career. It has given me patience and resilience and a lot more appreciation for my body. I used to be a girl that strived to be skinny as possible and struggled with body image but now I want to fuel my body for a purpose and to be better, stronger and faster for my teammates." Vice-captain Jen's journey began as a Glasgow Warriors season ticket holder who, by her own admission, "didn't know half the laws, and had no idea what was happening when folk in the stands were shouting 'in at the side' or 'off his feet'!" After joining at age 35 in July 2019, she became part of the team's incredible growth story. "We are still season ticket holders at Glasgow Warriors and now we're the ones shouting 'in at the side!' and we actually know what we're talking about!" Leadership That Makes the Difference Success doesn't happen by accident, and Bishopton Ladies has been blessed with exceptional leadership. Founding captain Sarah Miles has been "influential throughout her time at the club. Leading the team through its hardships and unknowns in the beginning, never wavering from any challenge we faced right up to the current day." The 2024/2025 coaching trio of David Jackson (brother of the section's founder), Vanessa Reid-Phelps, and Sandy Glassford was instrumental in recent success. "Thanks to the coaches’ hard work and commitment the last two seasons the ladies have achieved everything they have set out to do and even more so this season, making club history." Building Community: More Than a Rugby Club What sets Bishopton apart is their commitment to community and inclusivity. The club's philosophy that "rugby should be accessible for everyone" is demonstrated through free kids' rugby programs, ensuring that, regardless of financial circumstances, children have a fun and safe place to make friends and enjoy the game. Their approach to welcoming new players and rival teams showcases true sportsmanship. Staying true to the founding notion of the team, when playing in a round-robin event where teams were short of players, Bishopton Ladies invited Ardrossan players to join them, ensuring they had the opportunity to compete with adequate game time. This act of sportsmanship was repaid when the Ardrossan team unfortunately folded – many of their players joined Bishopton because of this experience. From Underdogs to Champions: The Sweet Taste of Success The culmination of years of hard work came with this season's league championship. "To watch the team, grow in the way it has, having gone from 2018 with 4-5 players to now having to sometimes drop 4 or 5 players for game day. To see everyone really begin to flourish and reap the rewards of their consistent hard work is a fantastic feeling. The icing on the cake is winning the league, getting to say Bishopton ladies' winners of West 2 gives me goosebumps."   Bishopton Ladies, West League Division 2 Winners 2024/2025 Bishopton Ladies will be tackling new challenges this season with promotion to West Region League Division 1, being led by their new head coach Stacey MacLeod. The experience Stacey had playing with the team last season, she knew retirement couldn’t keep her away. Stacey comments, “The club are such a lovely community club and have been so welcoming and encouraging. I’m excited to watch this squad grow and build on last season's league win up in West 1.”. Looking Forward: Legacy and Growth The future vision for Bishopton Ladies is ambitious yet grounded in their core values. "My hope is that the club continues to grow, we continue to be positive role models that attract both girls and women to the sport. I cannot wait for the day that the current girls at the club are of age to pull on the ladies' jersey." Perhaps most importantly, they want to change perceptions: "Something I would like to see change is how women's rugby is perceived, that is a game for everyone and that you don't need to be confined to a certain stereotype." The Heart of It All As the growth of women's rugby in the West demonstrates, there's clearly an appetite for what they're offering. But beyond the trophies and league positions, what makes Bishopton Ladies special is captured perfectly in this sentiment: "we aim to be the beating heart of community." From 4-5 players showing up to Friday night training to league champions with a waiting list, Bishopton Ladies Rugby proves that with vision, determination, and genuine care for each other, incredible transformations are possible. Their story isn't just about rugby – it's about what happens when a community comes together to support each other's dreams.” We at Muddy Roots wish Bishopton Ladies all the best for the 2025/2026 season, and thank the club members for sharing their story with us. The legacy continues, and the best is yet to come.

Language Matters: Why "Girls" Isn't Appropriate for Adult Women in Rugby We need to talk about something that happens at rugby clubs up and down the country. You'll hear it at committee meetings, in match reports, and in casual conversation around the clubhouse: adult women players being called "girls." Now, before anyone gets defensive, this isn't about having a go at well-meaning club members. Most of the time, it's completely unintentional. But that doesn't mean we shouldn't address it. The Power of Language Here's the thing about language – it shapes how we think, whether we realise it or not. When we consistently refer to adult women as "girls," we're unconsciously treating them as less than their adult male counterparts. And yes, that includes the unintended patronising tone that often comes with it – you know, that slightly condescending "aren't they sweet" attitude that creeps in when people talk about "the girls doing so well.". What's Actually Happening Walk into any grassroots rugby club and you'll hear it. Committee meetings where officials discuss "the girls' team budget" while talking about "the men's team" in the same breath. Match reports celebrating how "the girls played their hearts out" while the men's team gets described as "putting in a professional performance." Social media posts about "our girls" versus "our senior squad." The frustrating part? Many of these officials genuinely support women's rugby. They turn up to matches, they fundraise, they put in the volunteer hours. But they're undermining their own efforts with language that comes across as belittling, even when that's the last thing they intend. Why "Girls" Just Doesn't Work Let's be honest about who we're talking about here. These aren't teenage players – they're adult women. Many are in their twenties, thirties, and beyond. They're juggling careers, mortgages, families, and serious training commitments. They've often been playing rugby for years, some are coaches themselves, and plenty are key figures in their clubs. Calling them "girls" is infantilising, and it often comes with that unintentional tone that makes it sound like they're being praised for trying hard rather than being recognised for their actual achievements. This reflects something we see everywhere, not just in rugby. Women often don't get the same linguistic markers of adulthood and authority that men do automatically. We've mostly figured this out in the workplace, but sport seems to be lagging behind. The Real Impact This language issue isn't just about hurt feelings – it has real effects. New female members notice when they're consistently referred to as "girls". It sends a message about how seriously their participation is taken, and potential sponsors pick up on it too. It also affects younger players looking ahead to their future in the sport. What message does it send when even accomplished adult women players are still being called "girls" and spoken about in that well-meaning but patronising way? Moving Forward This doesn't need to be a big confrontational thing. Most club officials using this language are doing it without thinking, and they'd probably be horrified to realise they're coming across as this way. The fix is actually pretty straightforward. Instead of "girls' team," try "women's team." Instead of "our girls," go with "our women players" or just "the team.". Talk to leadership members in your women’s teams and ask what language they prefer. Similarly, women, talk to your club committees. The Bottom Line Rugby clubs pride themselves on being welcoming, respectful places. Adult female rugby players aren't "girls" – they're women, athletes, and valued club members who deserve to be spoken about the same way we speak about everyone else. Most people in rugby are decent, well-intentioned folks who want to do right by everyone at their club. This is just one more way to make sure our actions match our intentions. After all, if we can master the complexities of the scrum laws, we can probably manage to call adult women "women."

A historic time for Scottish Women's Rugby this year as selected games from the Arnold Clark Women's Premiership are being broadcasted live on BBC Alba. So, whether you're pitch side or on the couch, tonight you can watch Stirling County and Stewartry RFC face off live. The Squads Stirling County Stewartry RFC Chloe Brown S. Brook Kiera Macdonald N. Finlay Rachel Cox L. Nicholson Sarah Murdoch C. Dooley Sophie Murphy C. Craik Eilidh Graham H. Sainsbury Heather Davis S. Durnan Sam Taganekurukuru A. Henderson Jodie Murdoch (VC) C. Manson Ceitidh Ainsworth L. Ritchie (C) Brogan Henderson N. Wilson Ciorstaidh Ainsworth C. Johnstone Fi Keys L. Hill Rachel Crawford J. Stewart Sky Phimister D. Burns Gemma Thomson D. Currie Paige Anastacia K. Warrick Jenna Duncan B. Fergusson Aimee Dallas S. Hayes Maia MacDonald L. Bridge Frankie Nodes B. Ginnelly (VC) Sophie Mitchell H. Lyon Home: Stirling County Stirling County are currently in second position in the Premiership league table, they have had an impressive season so far, with 10 wins from 13 games. The 2023 Premiership winners will be looking to secure their place in the Premiership play off final. Stirling County currently have 53 points with third place Watsonian FC hot on their heels at 52, with 2 games to go! Playing on home turf tonight, Stirling will be determined not only to showcase their skills as squad but to get those all important points on the table. Ahead of tonight's fixture, Stirling is: " really excited to get on the pitch and showcase the talent we’ve got in our squad. So many of the girls are involved in the Glasgow and Edinburgh set ups this year, so to get this exposure of the game and show the country the high standard of rugby within the whole Premiership is a huge step forward for the sport." Stewartry RFC The Sirens are making the trip up from Dumfries and Galloway, currently in eighth position in the Premiership league table, a determined Stewartry is undeterred by the challenge ahead of them tonight as they step out at Bridgehaugh Park. Stewartry's Director of Rugby for Women and Girl's, Lauren Nicholson, says: “This is a really exciting opportunity for us as a Club and we want the team to go out there, give it 100%, enjoy it and create lasting memories. We have alot of excited girls in the girls section waiting to watch the Sirens on the TV and thats what its all about for us. Inspiring the next generation & giving a performance to be proud of." Clare Dooley the Club President: "Stewartry Rugby Club are extremely proud to have the only Dumfries and Galloway women’s rugby team competing in the Scottish Premiership, and are very much behind the team as they play away to Stirling County this Friday night. We are honoured to be part of this groundbreaking deal between Scottish Rugby and BBC Alba, which sees the match being televised. These televised matches mark the first time both men’s and women’s league domestic rugby matches in Scotland will be played on free-to-air television. It really is a historic moment for us at SRFC, that we have a senior 1st XV team that is part of this, and the whole club is in support. This match against Stirling County will prove to be a tough test for the team, and they are well aware of this, but players and coaches alike, have been working hard at training this week to focus on team goals and areas of their game they want to improve on. As noted by a fellow women’s rugby team the Sirens ‘have determination bursting from the seams’ so I’m sure they will approach this match with the usual grit. All of us at SRFC would like to wish them the very best of luck and, although I am also playing, the rest of the club look forward to watching them live tomorrow night!" Lisa Ritchie, 1XV Captain: "The Sirens are excited to head up to Stirling County on Friday night, with a full team and ready to challenge Stirling on their home turf. This is the first chance the Sirens have had to feature in the Friday night TV game and we are hoping that we can showcase rugby in Dumfries and Galloway and show how much the women’s game is growing in the area. This featuring on TV is certainly an exciting time for women’s rugby and shows the girls section what is possible if they have a women’s section in the women’s premiership. We are fully aware that Stirling are in the top 3 and won and the premiership last year, the challenge ahead will be hard and a physical battle but this is why we are in the premiership, to be up against the best in Scotland and keep striving to be better." It is evident that Stewartry are raring to go tonight, with the whole club behind them. It looks to be an evening of hard hits, grit, and a fantastic display of women's rugby in Scotland. We at Muddy Roots wish both teams well and will be watching on the big screen." Where to Watch Pitch Side: Stirling County Rugby Football Club, Bridgehaugh Park, FK9 5AP. Live Stream: BBC Alba https://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/m0025hg0 K.O: 7:30pm, 29th November 2024.

Introduction As Storm Bert swept across Scotland, the rugby community faces a familiar challenge: frozen pitches and cancelled fixtures. Last weekend saw numerous matches postponed, leaving clubs and players grappling with disrupted training schedules. However, these weather-induced breaks don't have to halt your rugby development. Here's how you can turn this downtime into an opportunity for growth and improvement. As a Club: Maximising Team Development Off the Pitch When Mother Nature forces us off the field, it creates an ideal opportunity for collective analysis and strategic planning. Video analysis sessions can become a powerful tool for team development during these weather disruptions. Start by organising team viewing sessions of recent matches. These sessions allow players and coaches to: Identify patterns in play that might go unnoticed during the heat of the game. Analyse set-piece effectiveness and areas for improvement. Review defensive structures and communication. Assess decision-making in key moments. Highlight positive plays to reinforce good habits. Consider breaking down the analysis into position-specific groups. Forward pods can focus on scrummaging technique and lineout execution, while backs might analyse attacking lines and defensive positioning. This targeted approach ensures everyone gets maximum value from the sessions. Create a collaborative environment where players feel comfortable contributing observations. Sometimes, the most insightful comments come from players who notice details that even coaches might miss. Document key learning points and create specific training focuses for when you return to the field. Personal Development: Body Maintenance and Recovery Weather-enforced breaks provide an excellent opportunity to address those niggling injuries that players often push through during the regular season. Now is the perfect time to book that physiotherapy appointment you've been postponing. Many players carry minor injuries that, while not serious enough to prevent playing, can impact performance and potentially develop into more significant issues if left unaddressed. Focus on your rehabilitation exercises. Whether it's strengthening a weak shoulder or improving ankle stability, dedicated time for rehab work can make a significant difference. Create a daily routine of: Mobility exercises targeting problem areas. Strengthening exercises for injury prevention. Flexibility work to improve range of motion. Balance and proprioception training. Consider this period an investment in your body's longevity in the sport. Work with your physiotherapist to develop a personalised program that addresses your specific needs and injury history. Gym Work Out Program While outdoor training might be limited, the gym offers a controlled environment to maintain and improve your physical condition. Here's a comprehensive program to keep you match-ready: Upper Body Focus Bench Press: 4 sets of 8-10 reps for chest development. Military Press: 4 sets of 8-10 reps for shoulder strength. Bent-Over Rows: 4 sets of 10-12 reps for back development. Face Pulls: 3 sets of 15 reps for rotator cuff health. Push-Ups: 3 sets to failure for functional strength. Pull-Ups: 3 sets to failure for upper body power. Lower Body Development Squats: 5 sets of 5 reps for overall leg strength. Romanian Deadlifts: 4 sets of 8 reps for hamstring development. Walking Lunges: 3 sets of 20 steps for functional movement. Calf Raises: 4 sets of 15 reps for explosive power. Box Jumps: 4 sets of 6 reps for power development. Bulgarian Split Squats: 3 sets of 10 reps each leg for balance. Bodyweight Training Circuit Perform 3 rounds of: 20 Burpees. 30 Mountain Climbers. 15 Diamond Push-Ups. 20 Jump Squats. 30-second Plank Hold. 20 Body Weight Dips Rest 2 minutes between rounds. Socialising: Maintaining Life Balance While dedication to rugby is admirable, it's essential to maintain perspective and use this downtime constructively for social connections. Don't feel guilty about taking time to catch up with family and friends who might see less of you during the regular season. These relationships provide vital support and contribute to your mental well-being. Using the extra hours to: Organise team social events that build camaraderie off the field. Spend quality time with family members who support your rugby commitments. Catch up with friends outside the rugby circle for fresh perspectives. Engage in hobbies and interests that get pushed aside during the season. Remember, rugby is intense both physically and mentally. These social connections and breaks from the sport can help prevent burnout and maintain your passion for the game. Conclusion While frozen pitches and cancelled fixtures can be frustrating, viewing this period as an opportunity rather than a setback can lead to significant improvements in your game. By balancing team analysis, personal development, physical training, and social time, you can emerge from these weather disruptions as a more complete player and person. The Scottish weather may be temperamental, but your approach to development doesn't have to be. Use this time wisely, and you'll be ready to hit the ground running when conditions improve.

Your First Rugby Match: A Complete Preparation Guide The anticipation of a first rugby match can send butterflies through even the most confident athlete's stomach. Standing on that pitch for the first time, hearing the referee's whistle, and preparing for that first contact – it's a milestone moment in any rugby player's journey. Yet there's comfort in knowing that every single person on that field, from the seasoned veterans to the opposing team, once stood in those same boots, feeling those same nerves. The Mental Game: Embracing the Challenge Rugby is unique in its combination of physicality, strategy, and teamwork. New players often worry about making mistakes or letting their team down, but it's important to remember that rugby teams are known for their exceptional supportive culture. Veterans understand the importance of nurturing new talent, as the sport's future depends on welcoming and developing fresh players. Team captains and experienced players typically take new players under their wing, offering guidance, support, and encouragement. They remember their first game and understand exactly what those pre-match jitters feel like. This mentorship is a cherished tradition in rugby culture, making the sport more accessible to newcomers. Physical Preparation: The Week Before Proper preparation begins well before match day. In the week leading up to the game: Maintain regular sleep patterns and aim for 7-8 hours each night Stay well-hydrated throughout the week Eat balanced meals with plenty of complex carbohydrates and lean proteins Attend all training sessions to stay sharp and connected with teammates Listen to your body and avoid overtraining Get any minor niggles or injuries checked by the team physio Nutrition: Fuelling for Success Match day nutrition plays a crucial role in performance. Here's a guide for match day eating: 3-4 Hours Before Kick-Off: A substantial meal rich in complex carbohydrates Lean protein source Low in fat and fibre Examples: Whole grain pasta with tomato-based sauce and chicken Brown rice with grilled fish and steamed vegetables Porridge with banana and honey Whole grain toast with scrambled eggs and spinach 1-2 Hours Before: Light snack if needed Easily digestible carbohydrates Examples: Banana Energy bar Sports drink Rice cakes with honey The Essential Match Day Checklist You might think packing your rugby boots is a fairly obvious part of packing your game day bag, but you would not be the first (and certainly not the last) to turn up on game day without your boots. Use this handy checklist to help get you prepared for kick off. Kit Bag Essentials: □ Rugby boots with appropriate studs □ Mouth guard (properly fitted) □ Rugby socks □ Rugby shorts □ Team jersey □ Training shirt for warm-up □ Thermal base layer (weather dependent) □ Water bottle □ Sports tape/strapping □ Towel □ Post-match change of clothes □ Flip-flops/slides for shower □ Toiletries □ Light snack for after the game Additional Items: □ Lifting blocks (if you are jumping in lineouts) □ Zinc oxide tape (for ears if playing in forwards) □ Scrum cap (optional) □ Anti-inflammatory gel □ Basic first aid supplies Match Day Timeline Night Before: Pack kit bag using checklist Check weather forecast and pack accordingly Lay out morning clothes Get to bed early Morning Of: Wake up with plenty of time to digest breakfast Stay hydrated but don't overdo it Double-check kit bag Plan to arrive at least 90 minutes before kick-off At the Ground: Check in with coach and teammates Familiarize yourself with facilities Begin warm-up with team Listen to pre-match briefing Take a moment to mentally prepare During the Match Remember these key points during the game: Communication is crucial – don't be afraid to talk to teammates Listen for calls from your scrum-half and captain Stay in your defensive line Run straight and hard when carrying the ball Tackle low and wrap properly Keep your hands up, always expect the ball If unsure, ask teammates or the referee for clarification Post-Match Routine The game doesn't end at the final whistle. Rugby has a strong social tradition: Thank the referee and opposition Join the team huddle Participate in post-match analysis Clean boots and kit Attend the social gathering if there is one Take note of learning points for next time Looking Ahead The first game is a significant milestone, but it's just the beginning of a rugby journey. Each match brings new experiences, lessons, and improvements. Focus on personal development rather than perfection, and remember that every international player once stood where you're standing – at the beginning of their rugby career. Most importantly, enjoy the experience. Rugby is more than just a sport; it's a community that welcomes new players with open arms. Those pre-match nerves will soon transform into excitement as you become more comfortable with the game and your role within the team. Remember, rugby is a sport for all shapes, sizes, and skill levels. Every position requires different attributes, and there's a place for everyone on the field. Trust in your preparation, rely on your teammates, and embrace the challenge ahead. Get your name in for selection and welcome to the rugby family!

For too long, women's rugby has been told through the lens of men's rugby – compared to it, measured against it, defined by it. But our experiences, challenges, and triumphs are uniquely our own. That's why "Pass It On" exists – a platform created by female rugby players, for female rugby players and aspiring players. Every story shared here comes from the passionate community of female rugby players across Scotland who are changing the face of the sport. The State of Women's Rugby in Scotland Women's rugby in Scotland stands at a pivotal moment. With participation numbers growing year on year and the national team securing crucial international wins, the momentum is building. From the Borders to the Highlands and Islands, women's teams are emerging and establishing themselves as vital parts of traditional rugby clubs. Yet, we still face significant challenges: limited media coverage, scheduling conflicts with men's matches, and the persistent need to prove ourselves worthy of equal resources and recognition. Breaking Down Barriers The old stereotype that "rugby's not for girls" is finally being dismantled, but its echoes still influence how women and girls perceive the sport. Across Scotland, dedicated coaches and players are working to change this narrative. Clubs are introducing women-only "try rugby" sessions, creating supportive environments where newcomers can learn without pressure. These initiatives are proving that rugby truly is a sport for every body type – whether you're tall, short, strong, lean, fast, or steady, there's a position where your unique physical attributes become advantages. Building Communities, Not Just Teams What sets women's rugby apart in Scotland is the extraordinary sense of community. Teams across the country aren't just competing against each other; they're collaborating to grow the sport. Veterans mentor newcomers, clubs share resources and knowledge, and players often help establish teams at neighbouring clubs to ensure more women have access to the sport. The rugby clubhouse has become a space where women can be unapologetically strong, competitive, and ambitious. After matches, home teams host visiting sides, sharing meals and stories, building networks that extend far beyond the pitch. These connections have created a powerful support system for women in sport across Scotland. Education and Development A crucial part of growing women's rugby is developing female coaches, referees, and administrators. Clubs and the Scottish Rugby Union are increasingly offering development pathways specifically for women, recognizing that representation at all levels of the sport is essential for its growth. Current players are being encouraged to take coaching courses, referee certifications, and leadership roles within their clubs, ensuring the future of women's rugby will be shaped by women themselves. Balancing Act One of the unique challenges in women's rugby is balancing the sport with work, family, and other commitments. Many clubs are adapting by offering flexible training schedules, childcare support during sessions, and social rugby options. This acknowledgment that women often juggle multiple responsibilities has made the sport more accessible to a broader range of participants. Youth Development The future of women's rugby in Scotland lies in youth development. Schools and clubs are collaborating to introduce girls to rugby at younger ages, creating pathways from primary school through to senior rugby. Role models are emerging at every level, showing young girls that they too can aspire to wear the thistle on their chest or lead their local club to victory. Getting Involved The beauty of women's rugby in Scotland is that it's never too late to start. Clubs across the country welcome newcomers of all ages and abilities, offering: Beginner-friendly training sessions Touch rugby programs for those who prefer non-contact Flexible commitment options Supportive learning environments Equipment loan schemes Experienced mentors The Road Ahead While we celebrate how far women's rugby has come in Scotland, we're clear-eyed about the work that remains. We need more coverage, more resources, and more recognition. But most importantly, we need more women to join us – as players, coaches, officials, and supporters. Join the Movement This blog will share weekly insights from the world of women's rugby in Scotland: Player stories and experiences Club spotlights and success stories Training tips and advice Match reports and tournament coverage Development opportunities News about the national team Discussions about the challenges and triumphs of women in rugby Your Turn to Pass It On Every woman who joins a rugby club in Scotland adds her voice to our growing chorus. Whether you're looking for competitive sport, fitness, friendship, or a new challenge, there's a place for you in our rugby family. The women's rugby community in Scotland is growing stronger every day, and we'd love you to be part of it. Want to know more about women's rugby in Scotland? Follow our blog for weekly stories from players across the country, training tips, and updates on the national team. Join our community of women supporting women in sport and share your own rugby journey using #PassItOn.