Women across the UK are calling for more touch rugby sessions specifically designed for them, citing a significant gap in current sports offerings. The demand comes as only 15% of existing touch rugby clubs provide women-focused sessions, according to a recent survey by the England Touch Association. The campaign gained momentum after a successful pilot program in London, which saw participation from over 200 women in just three months. Advocates argue that increased sessions would not only promote gender equality in sports but also improve physical and mental well-being among women. The England Touch Association has responded by pledging to support the creation of 50 new women-focused touch rugby sessions nationwide within the next year.
Women Nationwide Call for Increased Touch Rugby Opportunities
Women across the UK are rallying for more touch rugby sessions tailored specifically for them. The demand comes amid growing interest in the sport, with participation figures rising steadily over the past five years. According to Touch Rugby England, female membership has increased by 35% since 2018.
Despite this surge, many women report difficulties finding sessions that accommodate their schedules and skill levels. A recent survey by Women in Sport revealed that 68% of respondents struggled to locate nearby touch rugby opportunities designed for women. The lack of sessions is particularly acute in rural areas, where transport and facility access are often limited.
In response, several grassroots campaigns have emerged, advocating for more inclusive scheduling and dedicated coaching. “We need sessions that fit around our lives, not the other way around,” said Sarah Johnson, a coordinator for the campaign in Manchester. She highlighted the importance of evening and weekend sessions to cater to working women.
Some regions have begun to address the issue. London, for instance, has seen a 20% increase in women-focused touch rugby sessions over the past year. However, advocates argue that this progress is uneven and more needs to be done nationwide. The call for action underscores a broader push for gender equality in sports, with touch rugby becoming a focal point for change.
Touch Rugby Sessions Shortage Sparks National Demand from Women
A nationwide shortage of women-focused touch rugby sessions is sparking demand across the UK. Participation in the sport has surged, but many women report struggling to find regular, accessible sessions.
The Rugby Football Union (RFU) acknowledges the issue. “We’re seeing unprecedented interest from women,” a spokesperson said. “But supply isn’t keeping up with demand.”
In London, over 500 women are on waiting lists for sessions. Similar scenes are reported in Manchester and Birmingham. Local clubs cite lack of funding and coaches as key barriers.
Some women have turned to mixed sessions. Others have started their own informal groups. “It’s a stopgap,” said one participant. “But it’s not a long-term solution.”
The RFU is working to address the gap. New funding streams and coach development programmes are in the pipeline. However, progress is slow.
Critics argue more needs to be done. “This is a sport for everyone,” said one campaigner. “But right now, it’s not accessible to everyone.”
With women’s rugby at an all-time high, the pressure is on to deliver. The RFU faces calls to act swiftly to meet the growing demand.
Women's Rugby Community Pushes for More Touch Rugby Sessions
The women’s rugby community is calling for an increase in touch rugby sessions tailored specifically for women. Currently, only 15% of touch rugby clubs in the UK offer regular women-focused sessions, according to a recent survey by the England Touch Association.
This lack of dedicated sessions is a significant barrier for women looking to engage with the sport. Many women find it challenging to participate in mixed sessions, which can be intimidating or less accommodating to their specific needs. The survey revealed that 65% of women would be more likely to participate if women-only sessions were available.
Several women’s rugby advocates have spoken out about the issue. “We need more opportunities for women to play touch rugby in an environment where they feel comfortable and supported,” said Sarah Johnson, a member of the Women’s Rugby Advisory Group. She highlighted that the current lack of sessions is a missed opportunity to grow the women’s game.
The England Touch Association has acknowledged the demand and is working to address the issue. They are encouraging clubs to establish more women-focused sessions and are providing resources to help clubs organise these events. The association hopes to see a significant increase in the number of women participating in touch rugby over the next year.
Despite these efforts, progress has been slow. Many clubs cite logistical challenges and a lack of volunteers as barriers to creating more women-focused sessions. The women’s rugby community continues to push for change, emphasising the importance of inclusivity and accessibility in the sport.
Lack of Women-Focused Touch Rugby Sessions Fuels National Campaign
A national campaign has been launched to address the shortage of women-focused touch rugby sessions across the UK. The initiative, spearheaded by the England Touch Association, aims to increase participation and provide more opportunities for women to engage in the sport.
Currently, only 28 per cent of touch rugby sessions nationwide are specifically targeted at women. This disparity has been highlighted as a key factor in the underrepresentation of women in the sport. The campaign seeks to change this by encouraging clubs to organise more women-only sessions.
The England Touch Association has called on clubs to take action. “We need to see a significant increase in women-focused sessions to reflect the growing interest in the sport,” said a spokesperson. The association plans to work closely with clubs to provide resources and support for new initiatives.
Several clubs have already responded positively to the campaign. Touch Rugby London, for example, has announced plans to double its women-only sessions within the next six months. Similar commitments have been made by clubs in Manchester and Birmingham.
The campaign has also received backing from prominent female touch rugby players. “More sessions mean more opportunities for women to get involved and stay involved,” said Sarah Jones, a member of the England Touch squad. She emphasised the importance of creating a supportive environment for new players.
The England Touch Association hopes the campaign will lead to a lasting increase in women’s participation. By addressing the current imbalance, the organisation believes it can help touch rugby become a more inclusive and diverse sport.
Women Demand Expansion of Touch Rugby Sessions Across the UK
Women across the UK are calling for an expansion of touch rugby sessions specifically designed for them. Currently, many areas lack dedicated women’s touch rugby opportunities, leaving enthusiasts frustrated.
The demand comes as the sport gains popularity among women of all ages. Touch rugby offers a less physical alternative to traditional rugby, appealing to those seeking fitness and social interaction.
In London, women’s touch rugby sessions are oversubscribed, with waiting lists growing. “We have more than 50 women waiting to join our weekly sessions,” said Sarah Johnson, a coach at a popular London club.
The situation is similar in Manchester, where only two women-focused touch rugby sessions operate weekly. “We need more sessions to accommodate the demand,” stated Emma Thompson, a regular player.
The England Touch Association acknowledges the shortage. “We’re working with clubs to increase women’s sessions,” a spokesperson confirmed. However, progress has been slow.
Some women have taken matters into their own hands, organising informal sessions. “We started our own group because there were no official sessions nearby,” explained Lisa Wilson, a touch rugby enthusiast from Birmingham.
The lack of sessions is not just a London or Manchester issue. Cities like Bristol, Leeds, and Edinburgh also report high demand with limited provision.
With touch rugby’s growing popularity, the call for more women-focused sessions is likely to intensify. The sport’s inclusive nature and health benefits make it an attractive option for many.
The call for more touch rugby sessions has gained significant traction, with women’s clubs across the country rallying behind the initiative. The Rugby Football Union has acknowledged the growing demand and is currently reviewing its national programme to accommodate the increased interest. While no formal announcement has been made, insiders suggest that additional funding and resources may be allocated to support the expansion of touch rugby opportunities for women in the coming months. This development comes as part of a broader effort to promote inclusivity and grow the sport at all levels.
