Women’s rugby has never been more popular, and North Dorset RFC hopes to build on that momentum by creating one of the strongest girls’ rugby programmes in the region. The Gillingham-based club is expanding a section that has grown steadily in recent years, with girls from across North Dorset already representing the club every week. Now it hopes to attract even more players from Gillingham, Shaftesbury, Sturminster Newton, Blandford, Wincanton, Warminster and the surrounding villages.
Inspired by the success of England’s Red Roses and the rising profile of the women’s game, the club believes more girls are discovering rugby than ever before. Rather than launching a new initiative from scratch, it is investing in an established programme, providing qualified coaching and clear development pathways for girls aged 11 to 18.
A real opportunity
The new season begins with free summer training sessions before a Signing Event on 4th September, where existing and new players will be welcomed to the club. Designed to recreate the excitement of signing for a professional side, players will formally commit to the season, pose for photographs and celebrate with teammates and their families.
Amber Pearce, chair of girls’ and women’s rugby at North Dorset RFC, said the club wanted every girl to feel there was a place for her, whatever her previous experience: ‘We’re incredibly proud of the girls already representing North Dorset,’ she said. ‘They’ve built a fantastic team culture based on friendship, encouragement and enjoyment, and they’re the reason we’re so excited about the future.
‘We want every girl to know there’s a place for her here. Whether you’re confident, curious or simply looking to try something new, we’d love you to come along and meet the team.’
Club chair Janet Dimmack said the recent growth of women’s rugby had created a real opportunity for grassroots clubs.
‘The growth of women’s rugby has been extraordinary,’ she said. ‘We already have a wonderful group of girls playing fantastic rugby, and we’re committed to building on that success. Our ambition is to become the club of choice for girls’ rugby across our area by creating an environment where players can develop, thrive and enjoy being part of a team.’
Free training sessions begin on 28th July and continue throughout August, Tuesday evenings and Sunday mornings at North Dorset RFC in Gillingham. Girls in school years 6 to 13 are welcome, whether they have played rugby before or are trying the sport for the first time.
- Training starts from: 28 July 2026, Tues and Sunday during August
- When & Where: Training takes place on Tuesday evenings, 7pm – 8.30pm and Sundays 10am at North Dorset RFC, Gillingham, Dorset SP8 5SY
- Signing Event: Friday 4th September, 6.30pm
- Venue: North Dorset RFC, Gillingham, Dorset SP8 5SY
- Who can join? Girls of all ages from Year 6 – Year 13 (11–18yrs)
- Experience needed? None. Beginners are always welcome.
- Catchment: Gillingham, Shaftesbury, Sturminster Newton, Blandford, Wincanton and the wider Blackmore Vale.
- For more information, visit https://www.ndrfc.co.uk or follow North Dorset RFC on social media.
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