Uddingston's very own Selkies were recently recognised as winners in the Telegraph Media Group Honda Rugby Legacy Fund, a national competition which recognises grassroots clubs who are working hard to build a strong and vibrant ladies section to drive and develop the game.

At the Telegraph Media Group Honda Rugby Legacy Fund winners’ day, club representatives from across the UK came together to share their experiences and enjoy an engaging programme, which included a unique training session with England legend and Rugby World Cup winner Maggie Alphonsi.

As the winners compared notes on each of their women’s and girls’ clubs from Cumbria to Cornwall, and Scotland’s west coast, they discovered that women’s grassroots rugby is not just surviving but growing – one village, one school, one girl at a time.

At Silloth, Greenock and Uddingston rugby clubs, the Legacy Fund is helping them to build spaces designed specifically with women in mind – whether that means practical upgrades, academic support or simply a place where everyone feels they belong.

Kit that fits
Uddingston Rugby Club, based outside Glasgow, is just four years old and still finding its feet, but it is already serving a highly diverse community.

“We’re still very much in our infancy and still recruiting,” says Kirsten Sloan, the club’s vice-captain. “Lots of girls are picking it up in their late twenties, early thirties, students, mums – it’s very diverse.”

Their £1,000 award will cover more than just kit or travel. “It’s making sure these girls know they can come, they’re supported with finances, they don’t really have to worry about it.”

As with many young women’s teams, having access to properly fitting kit is a point of pride. “You start off with old men’s kit that doesn’t fit, and you don’t feel confident or comfortable,” says Sloan. “When you look the part and feel the part, it builds confidence.”

The club plans to use the funding to subsidise memberships, provide physiotherapy, cover travel expenses and promote rugby at local community events. “We want to make sure there are no financial barriers to anyone who wants to come and play,” adds club captain Jennifer Scahill.

The winners’ day left a lasting impression. “The opportunity to be with the other winners and train with Maggie Alphonsi has been incredible,” says Scahill. “It’s just super inspiring to hear her stories. We’re so grateful to be here.”

Congratulations to Jen, Kirsten, and all of our Selkies players, coaches and supporters - we are all proud of what you have achieved and the potential that you are developing.

Full details of the award and the clubs who were recognised can be found HERE