The demand for recreational women’s and girl’s rugby opportunities has significantly increased over the past couple of years following the success of the women's international team and Great Britain's participation in the sevens competition at this years Rio Olympics.

Liam Lester, Hartlepool Director of Rugby, said: "We have been delighted with the level of engagement and participation of women at O2 Touch this year and we were approached by some of those who took part about the potential for ladies rugby. The demand and appetite for rugby from the girls meant it was a no brainer to move forward with this.

"The ladies team will be a very welcome addition to the club and demonstrates the ambition we have for growing the game. It further strengthens our commitment as a club to offering playing opportunities for everyone.

"We want more activity at Mayfield Park and to provide greater support to the local community and the ladies team is something that we believe can help contribute towards this aim.

Vicky Coates, added: "O2 Touch got me back into playing rugby and me and some of the other girls who participated thought it would be great to form our own team. Following conversations and a bit of promotion on Facebook it was clear that there was plenty of demand and interest out there.

"We have had a lot of enthusiasm to get going and after chatting with Liam and Stewart Hind we were delighted to receive the support and backing of the club. We can't wait to get started now!"

Rugby is a sociable game; more women are playing because rugby clubs have welcoming, family atmospheres, and the sport is a great way to get fit.

The first ladies rugby taster session will take place on Sunday 15th January 2pm till 3pm at Mayfield Park, the home of Hartlepool Rugby Club.

An official launch will follow a week later on Sunday 15th January 2pm till 3pm.

Sessions will be fun with a focus around core skills and touch rugby (no contact or tackling) to begin with, while increasing participants understanding and knowledge of the game.

All new players are welcome and no previous rugby playing experience is required.

Ready to tackle a new sport? Want to get fit? Bored with the gym?

Want to meet new people and play rugby for fun?

Want to be part of something new and exciting?

Come along & get involved!

For more information please contact Vicky: vickycoates87@hotmail.co.uk or Stewart: hindstewart@gmail.com