Girls game pushes forward as rugby revival takes hold

Girls rugby has seen a revival in recent weeks and between Oban High School School of Rugby and Oban Lorne RFC there have been numerous chances for under 14s and under 16s to play.

Inclusion in an established School of Rugby Conference of fixtures and festivals has seen the local girls attend competitions at Ravenscraig national training hub and travel as far as Moffat and Cumnock for competitive fixtures.

The numbers have been consistent and the under 16s enjoyed competing in the National Bowl competition. The under 14 girls have benefited from School of Rugby sessions at Oban High School to improve their skills and fitness. The school has a girls only school of rugby class which allows the students to develop as a squad, training and playing together.

Murray Hamilton, principal teacher of PE at Oban High School, said: ‘In order for the rugby club and the school to provide these opportunities, we need more volunteers to step up and help with the running of the teams.

‘We are looking for coaches to help with next year's under 14 and under 16 teams.

‘A coaching course is being held at Oban Lorne RFC on June 25 which is open to anyone who may be interested in helping with any teams.

‘The course will provide an essential look at rugby coaching and full support will be provided by Oban Lorne RFC.'

Last Sunday, Oban Lorne RFC welcomed Cartha Queen's Park from Glasgow for games at under 14 and under 16 level.

Under 14 girls teams from Mid Argyll, Mull and Lochaber also attended as they continue to develop. On a fantastic day which saw more than 150 tries scored, Oban came out on top in the under 14 competition, closely followed by Mid Argyll.

Cartha came in third with Mull and Lochaber, who only played their first games in

Orkney last weekend, showing real promise.

In the under 16 games, the Oban/Mull team were too strong for Cartha, winning by four tries over the two games played.

Regional development officer Andrew Johnston said: ‘It was a fantastic day and the quality of rugby was excellent. Girls rugby continues to grow across the area with really strong groups in Oban, Mid Argyll and Mull, with Lochaber and Islay also showing promise.'

The next girls fixture will part of the Mull 7s on Saturday May 21.

▎ See www.obantimes.co.uk for photographs