Girls’ Rugby On The Rise As Vectis RFC Sees Record Youth Growth

Girls’ rugby is continuing to grow on the Isle of Wight, with Vectis Rugby Football Club highlighting a surge in participation and interest in the women’s game.

The club, which now has around 290 young players across its youth teams, says the girls’ section is playing a key role in what’s being described as a golden era for grassroots rugby on the Island.

Head coach of the girls’ squad, Nicole Sturges-Brookes, says the aim is to ensure every girl feels included and confident when stepping onto the pitch.

She says the increasing visibility of the England women’s team, the Red Roses, is inspiring young players locally, helping to break down stereotypes and show that rugby is a sport for everyone.

Nicole also emphasised that rugby is uniquely inclusive, with roles for all shapes, sizes and abilities, and reassured newcomers that contact elements of the game are introduced gradually, with player safety always the priority.

Beyond the sport itself, she says the focus is on building confidence, resilience and strong team connections that stay with players for life.

Vectis RFC continues to grow across all age groups — from Under 6s to Under 18s — and is encouraging both boys and girls, of any experience level, to get involved, including a current push to recruit Under 14 boys.