The Welsh Rugby Union is looking for women and girls aged between 16 and 30 who are competing in any other sport at regional or county level, especially those that require quick, agile and/ or powerful athletes and would like to try their hand at rugby – with a view to playing internationally.
Two players who had never played rugby before, were identified at the last Talent ID and featured for Wales in this year’s Women’s Six Nations – lock Rebecca Rowe had previously been in the GB rowing team and Amy Evans was a Commonwealth Games weightlifter. Others were identified and have joined the elite programme in Wales.
National Women’s Rugby Manager Caroline Spanton said, “We identified a number of girls who became part of the elite programme and three of those made it into this year’s Six Nations campaign, with Amy and Rebecca having never played rugby before last September.
“We hope to identify new talent to become part of our programme moving forwards for both the Sevens and 15-a-side programmes and will invest time in supporting these players once identified.
“We also want to see the potential interest for developing an RGC Girls/Womens regional side and so the talent on display in Parc Eirias will help us identify what resources are available to make this a reality.
“We will be able to signpost girls into clubs and the existing regional programme for those not quite ready for international rugby.”
RGC General Manager Rupert Moon said, “We know there is a wealth of elite Welsh talent in north Wales and from Welsh exiles in the north of England and the Midlands. There will be a great Parc Eirias welcome for the girls at the Talent ID Day and a further chance to become part of the RGC family by spurring on the men in the afternoon.
“As a rugby region, we want to represent all elements of north Wales life. I have watched Abergele, Colwyn Bay and Welshpool Ladies teams this season but having an RGC Women’s team playing in the regional competition would mean girls could remain in the north while continuing to progress on the elite pathway.”
Women’s Talent ID Day
Saturday 25 April, Parc Eirias, Colwyn Bay
8.30 – 2pm (approx. finish)
Criteria for the Talent ID Day:
– Competing in any sport at a minimum of county/ regional level
– Female and aged 16-30
– Welsh qualified – born in Wales/ parents / grandparents born in Wales / residency for at least 36 months
– Fit, quick, agile, skilful and / or powerful and strong
– Mentally tough and competitive
For further information about eligibility, contact womensheadcoach@wru.co.uk or [CLICK HERE] to register today.
