England Rugby Stars Inspire Next Generation at Devon’s RugbyFest
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A nationwide initiative to grow the sport saw England rugby players visit Devon on Sunday, aiming to ignite a passion for the game in young girls and cultivate the future of the Red Roses. The event, held at Teignmouth Rugby Football Club, drew approximately 81 attendees, with a significant number experiencing rugby for the very first time.
A Boost Following World Cup Excitement
The RugbyFest event is part of a broader, nationwide celebration of rugby, designed through mini-festivals and open days to encourage participation among the next generation. Organizers noted a clear surge in interest following the recent Women’s Rugby World Cup, with roughly 30 girls at the Teignmouth event inspired to try the sport after watching the tournament.
“Thirty girls who have not played rugby before have been inspired by the World Cup and want to experience playing,” stated a representative from Teignmouth Rugby Club. “For us as a club, it is amazing.”
Players Emphasize Accessibility and Confidence
Claudia Moloney-Macdonald, a winger for the Red Roses, highlighted the importance of connecting with the team’s supporters at the grassroots level. “For us, it’s amazing to get back into the clubs and give back to the individuals who supported us and see how we can influence their journey,” she said.
Another player, Maddie Feaunti, a back row player who began playing rugby at age 18, emphasized the transformative power of early exposure to the sport. “Seeing these girls have the opportunity to play rugby from a very young age is going to be massive for us and England rugby as well,” Feaunti explained. She also acknowledged the initial hesitation some girls might feel, adding, “I feel like I’m a little bit shy, but I’m getting to be a little bit out there with them to hopefully inspire them and get them involved. It’s all about confidence and getting them involved.”
A Sport for Everyone
The positive impact of the event was immediately apparent, with young participants expressing their enthusiasm for the game. Three attendees – Izzy, Nancy, and Ffion – shared that they found rugby to be “fun and enjoyable” and a sport “for everyone.”
The event underscores a growing commitment to expanding opportunities for women and girls in rugby, fostering a more inclusive and vibrant future for the sport.
