TRAINING has resumed this week at Melksham Rugby Club.
Following the easing of lockdown restrictions, the club’s ladies’, men’s and children’s teams are now able to train outdoors in groups of six. And the club is hoping that league rugby will return to the pitch from September.
As players return to train, Hannah Berrelly – who set up the Melksham Ladies Rugby Team with fellow club stalwart Sophie Scratchley in the late summer of 2017 – has shared the journey of one of the fastest growing ladies’ rugby teams in the country.
“It was the only thing our club was missing and we had interest from ladies that had moved on from playing junior level,” said Hannah. “We saw the potential and wanted there to be more ladies’ teams within Wiltshire. Starting off slowly and developing the women really supported the growth of the club.”
The club continued, “Creating a team from scratch (pun intended) is not an easy feat, however with the support from team sponsor Autoline Services, the ladies were able to grow the team through the use of posters, social media and the all-important word of mouth.
“2019 saw a real surge in the competitive and social nature of the sport, with the ladies able to join a development league for the first time and have around 30 women committed to the sport and club.
“Rugby has always been a benefit to both the physical and mental wellbeing of millions around the world. This is why it’s not surprising to hear the feedback from the current female contingent at the club.
“In just over three years the ladies’ side has gone from strength to strength, becoming a more competitive force each time they take to the field. As with rugby in general, it’s not about whether you are big or small, or if you’ve ever even picked up a rugby ball before, it’s about friendship and resilience in even the darkest of times.”
Hannah said, “The current squad feel that it has supported them with their health and determination (especially through these hard times!).
“They have always expressed their love for being part of such a great sport alongside a very sociable team that is made up of a mixture of ages.”
For more details about training, visit www.facebook.com/melkshamrugby
