London Irish Rugby

7th September 2007

London Irish launch Girls Rugby teams

London Irish are pleased to announce the launch of a girls' rugby section for U15's and U.18's for season 2007-2008.

It is unlikely that there is anyone involved with rugby anywhere in the world who has not heard of London Irish, a name which over its 109 year old history has become synonymous with good rugby football, friendliness and fun!

And remember, there is no need to be Irish or to come from an Irish background to join London Irish.

The girl's teams will be based at the Amateur and Professional Clubs training and playing facilities at The Avenue, Sunbury.

Considerable interest is already being shown within the greater Surrey area, the local community and schools and numbers have been very good at pre season training.

New playing members, who have already joined up, range from Surrey County and South of England Divisional players, right down to complete beginners. At London Irish we cater for all levels.

London Irish have put together a very high quality Coaching and Management team, including 3 International Players, to ensure that the girls get the best opportunity to develop as individuals and team players and above all have fun playing the game. 00

The Coaching staff for the Girls teams is :

• Shelley Rae, the current Wasps and England fly half with over 40 Caps to her name.
• Nicky Evans, the current Wasps and Welsh open side flanker.
• Francesca Mathews, Richmond RFC. Francesca is also the current England U.19 Squad.

• Charlie Connor, London Irish and Surrey;
• John Flynn, head of Youth Rugby Development at London Irish ARFC;
• Chris McGowan. Ex Ulster Ladies coach.

Guest Coaches

• Giselle Mather, the England U.19 Head Coach and London Irish Academy skills coach.
• Clare Vivian, England Ladies World Cup Winner in 2003.

In the first instance please contact. Dave Mathews, the Girls team manager on 07947074824, or John Flynn (johnf@blackstone.freeserve.co.uk) 07767 301 189.

Alternatively, you can find out more by visiting the London Irish Girls Rugby site at http://londonirishgirls.blogspot.com

Training is every Wednesday from 7.00pm and Sunday mornings from 10.00am to 12.00. Matches will be played on Sunday afternoons at 1.00pm.