Women’s Rugby Launched in Kinsale

While the sight of women playing rugby has been part of the annual Kinsale Sevens event at the Cork club, Kinsale RFC have taken steps to form their own Women?s adult rugby team.

At a meeting held on Friday 5th October 2007 to discuss the prospect, Gemma Crowley, Women?s Development Officer with the Munster Branch, IRFU outlined the development and structure of Women?s Rugby in Munster and the rest of the country. 

Currently the following clubs participate in the Munster Development League-  Highfield 2nd XV, Galbally, Clonmel, Young Munster, Tralee, Dungarvan; also Bandon has recently set up a team and there are real prospects of others setting up in Munster during the present season.  To ensure, full match activity, games can be played with 10 a side, 13 a side and of course 15 a side.  Initially, challenge games will be the key, along with having a framework for coaching and training.

Gemma commended Kinsale Rugby on the spirit and warm welcome extended to Women?s Rugby and the tangible support structure being offered.  

Danny O?Connell outlined in detail, the coaching resources available and offering his commitment for the season ahead.  Danielle Kiely, ex Highfield and Munster, gave support and indicated she would like assist in the coaching.  Ronan Kett also advised that other coaching resources would available to provide skill-set sessions as part of the programme which would be set out by Danny O?Connell.

John O?Sullivan, Head Coach, Irish Women?s XV has expressed his support for the new team. 

Recruitment has thus begun, with women aged 18 and over invited to express their interest. 

For more information email maria@sportingtoursireland.ie