Information from the first county development day

As this is our second year of county rugby, it is possible to compare this year with last and get an idea about how well we are doing, and how healthy the game is in the county.

Of course - as any students of statistics out there would point out - its not a perfect match as this year the day was a week or so earlier than last year (which will have made a difference for the U14s), and at a different location - but taking that into account there are some interesting results.

	2006	2005
	First day	First day	(All days)
Number of girls attending:
U14s:	17	19	(25)
U17s:	51	52	(66)
Number of clubs:
U14s	4	6	(6)
U17s	6	8	(8)
By age (at 1st September):
11	2	5	(8)
12	9	5	(5)
13	6	9	(12)
14	13	19	(21)
15	21	15	(23)
16	15	18	(22)
17	2	-	(-)

Also, looking at girls who have been to a development day in 2005 who came again in 2006...

Girls who were U14s (in 2005) returning in 2006: 76%
Girls who were U17s (in 2005) eligible to return in 2006: 59%*
(*ie. not including those who are now too old)

By age...
11 year-olds (in 2005) returning (as 12 year-olds) in 2006: 87%
12 year-olds (in 2005) returning (as 13 year-olds) in 2006: 60 %
13 year-olds (in 2005) returning (as 14 year-olds) in 2006: 75%
14 year-olds (in 2005) returning (as 15 year-olds) in 2006: 76%
15 year-olds (in 2005) returning (as 16 year-olds) in 2006: 39%

Whether any of this means anything, and if so what, I leave to you to decide.

The pwr of txt

This is just a useful observation/tip.

Last weekend I had to contact all 24 selected U17s to tell them about the first training session. In normal circumstamces this would have been a job that would have had me attached to a phone for hours, what with people engaged, away, etc. etc. And you never can guarantee that messages are passed on properly even if you get through.

However - as we now have mobile numbers for almost everyone - I tried texting instead. Sending one message to 23 numbers took about five minutes, and by the following morning I had had 19 written confirmations. So that's close to an 80% success rate - not bad. The others were then followed up in the "conventional" way.

So the tip is ... if you want to send a short message urgently to a large group of people then text messaging is wonderful. The message gets to the recipient as you sent it, you get a written confirmation they've had it, and it all takes minutes.

County U17 squad... and now the backs!

The names of almost all of the U17 squad have now been released. In addition to the forwards - whose names appeared on Thursday - the following 11 backs will also be in this season's county squad:

Lana Block (Welwyn); Charisse Fallon (Welwyn); Hannah Gallagher (Welwyn); Victoria Hampshire (Hertford); Harriet Lilley (Welwyn); Rosie Randfield (Letchworth); Alex Robertson (Saracens); Casey Shults (Welwyn); Natalie Threlfall (Letchworth); Sophie-Jane Tyler (Hertford); Megan Williams (Welwyn)

This may not be quite the final list as there are still a few girls who were unable to get to trials who need to be seen and maybe added to the final line up.

In the end 52 girls from eight clubs attended U17 trials this season - or let the selectors know that they wanted to be considered but were unable to take part - compared with 53 from nine last season. Watford RFC sent girls for the first time, but this season there were no girls from Bishops Stortford or Cheshunt.

Of the 24 names announced so far, 11 were in last season's U17 squad, and five made it into the squad having missed out last year. Three girls were selected who had never attended trials before, and finally five girls made the great step up from U14 rugby last season straight into the county U17 squad.

Congratulations to everyone.

The first training session for the U17s will be this Wednesday at the University of Hertfodshire Sports Village from 7.30 to 9.30

As last season there will also be a county "B" team, and all girls who came to trials but missed out are invited back to county training on 15th October at St Christopher School in Letchworth. Remember - last season the "B" team were the region's County Team of the Year after beating Oxfordshire 1st XV, as well as pushing the Essex to the limits, so there is a lot to play for yet!

As last season there will a squad will not be selected at this stage from the U14s - so if you are a U14 and did not get to Stevenage last week there is still a chance to get into the county team! So come along on Sunday 15th October!

County U17 squad selections: Forwards

Everyone who attended trials will also be contacted in writing, but as the first county training session is next Wednesday (at Hatfield Sports Village - see here for all training dates) we will be emailing those selected and also publishing the names here.

As some backs have yet to be seen by selectors the full county U17 squad list is not yet finalised. However, the forwards have now been selected, and appear below:

Ema Burgess (Hertford); Frances Dawson(Welwyn); Claire Foster (Hitchin); Milly Fuggles (Hertford); Hayley Guilder (Letchworth); Hannah Marques (Welwyn); Sophie Newman (Hertford); Naomi Parnell (Letchworth); Katie Pearcey (Hertford); Hannah Smith (Hertford); Geri Thomas (Fullers); Mel Waite (Hitchin); Laura Watson (Letchworth)

Congratulations to everyone selected.

Of the thirteen girls chosen, nine were in the U17 squad last season. The four new faces are Katie Pearcey and Hannah Smith (who both missed out on selection for the U17s last season), and Frances Dawson and Laura Watson who have made the jump from U14 rugby last season straight into this season's county U17 squad - an impressive performance.

If you missed out this time please come along to the next development day on October 15th at St Christopher School, Letchworth as we will be looking for form a county "B" squad as well.

World Cup: Kiwis complete hat trick of titles

In the end it was a problem that had been hinted at in the games with the USA and Canada - and even right back to Wales - an inability to turn possession and territory into points.

Without question England possess the strongest pack in world rugby. For the first thirty minutes or so they pushed the New Zealanders around, almost at will, with almost the entire first half taking place not only in the Kiwi half, but inside their 22. In particular England successfully targeted - and all but neutralised - New Zealand's full back and possibly leading player of the tournament, Amiria Marsh.

But despite all that pressure the only reward was a single penalty early on. New Zealand, on the other hand, found their way into the England half maybe three or four times, scored a try just before half time, and came in at he break leading 10-3.

The English tactics of keeping the ball with the forwards worked much of the time, but the few times it was released to the New Zealand backs they looked devastating, slicing through the English defence at times with amazing speed. And it was a flowing backs move at the start of the second half that lead to their second try, and a 15-3 lead.

This was soon cut to 15-10 when English pressure finally resulted in a penalty try, but from then on it was the turn on of the New Zealanders to put on the pressure. With the English tight five beginning to showing the effect of all the hard work they'd put in, the boot was now on the other foot and a classic forwards try, driving from a line out, extended the Kiwi lead to 10 points with only minutes to spare.

But England were not finished. With 77 minutes on the clock the fresh legs of Helen Clayton finally drove the England pack over the New Zealand line. With Shelley Rae slotting the extras the score was 20-17 as the game moved into injury time. Could we have a fairy tale ending?

No, in short. Desperate attempts by England to win back the ball from the restart lead to their being penalised from offside and pushed well back into their own half. Now having to run the ball from deep saw England turned over, and the ball in the Black Fern backs' hands - and finally into the hands of Amiria Marsh. For once free of English pressure she touched down in the corner to complete what was, ultimately, a deserved 25-17 New Zealand win.

So England have been frustrated by New Zealand again. What is the answer? Well, Sue Day, talking straight after the match, thinks its you! :

"If I can just add the big thing that is chaging in England, I think, is that girls are playing from a much younger age and some of the talent coming through is very exciting. They play the right kind of rugby - really good, exciting rugby - and I'm really looking forward to those players coming through when I'm sitting on the sidelines in a few years time"

Sunny Stevenage hosts the first county day

Over sixty girls worked hard in sweltering conditions in sunny Stevenage this afternoon - and left quite a problem for county coaches selecting teams for the forthcoming season. Around twenty U14s attended and should form the basis of a useful junior squad, while 44 U17s demonstrated their skills in a mini four-team "tournament".

In the latter the biggest winner was possibly the heat and humidity, with the pace of games slowing noticably as the afternoon wore on, but the girls from Welwyn (aided by Hitchin) impressed and seemed to be continuing where they left off last season. Letchworth, Saracens, Fullerians, and Hertford provided the bulk of the other participants.

A squad of around 25 will now be selected for the U17s, but the intention is to also run a development team as well. For the U14s training will continue for the girls attending, but it is not too late for other U14s to come foreward and stake a claim for a place in the county side at the next development day next month.

County trials & development day: REMINDER!!

Remember - this Sunday trials (for U17s) and a development day (for U14s) will be held at Stevenage rugby club, registration at 1.30pm.

Vicky Lowe (U17 Head Coach) writes:

Hopefully you've been able to access the registration forms and the girls/coaches will have them all filled out before the day....this will speed up registration which will give coaches more time to warm up their teams.

Just to recap the format for the trials. The plan is to run 10 a side matches, most girls will be playing in club teams. I appreciate that not all clubs are able to bring a 10 a side team that are all experienced enough to be at the trials, so what we have asked clubs to do is link up to form mixed teams. Can I stress at this point that trials are not to be seen as competition between clubs, Luke, myself and the spotters are
looking at individual girls and the club (or school) they play for is irrelevant.

So we're asking the coaches to take responsibility for warming up their players and then we'll get everyone together, give you a schedule for the matches then we'll get cracking!

I'd also like to say we put a lot of thought into the trial format for this year. We looked at how trials are run in other counties and discussed the format with Peter Engledow. I realise there will always be teething problems but myself and Luke feel this will give us the best opportunity to spot talented rugby players. And I do expect this year to be more competitive than last year....and thats a good thing. For girls county rugby to be taken seriously we need to make it more competitive, more elitist and give our girls the best opportunity to progress further at regional and representative level.

I understand that some girls at your clubs may be very new to rugby, and if you feel the trials are not for them don't bring them. The matches will be full contact (though scrums may well be uncontested and will be decided on the day). The plan is to run development sessions, like last year, at the same time the county team train Sunday October 15th, Sunday November 12th and Sunday December 3rd). This will provide a fantastic opportunity for new players to gain experience and more coaching.

If anyone has questions or queries feel free to get in touch, my number is 07739 968499.

So far I've got numbers from 4 clubs (Fullers, Hertford, Letchworth and Sarries). Can the other clubs email me asap with numbers, or say which club you've linked with so we can work out a match schedule before Sunday.

Thanks
Look forward to seeing you all there.....don't forget boots and mouthguards (girls will not be able to play without them).

World Cup Final LIVE on Sky!

If you have Sky then set your videos / DVDs / whatever - or be prepared for a blearly start to the week - because the World Cup Final between England and New Zealand will be on Sky Sports 3 live from 11.55pm on Sunday night.

So not exactly a huge build-up to the game anticipated being as it starts at midnight, but even so its good to see.

The semi-finals also went out on Sky last night - 24 hours after the matches actually took place, but broadcast "as live" so you saw the entire games. Basically it seems to be the same coverage as the 24.7 internet broadcasts - Sky have not gone to the trouble of actually having reporters out there or anything.

Both teams should be fully up-to-strength and England seem confident that they can steal it. So remember to tune in - could be a memorable night!

World Cup: England 80 minutes from glory!

It nearly all went horribly wrong in the last few minutes, but England are in the World Cup Final on Sunday after a 20-14 win over Canada. At 17-0 up early in the second half everything seemed to be running to script. A Canadian try reduced the deficit, but on 73 minutes Charlotte Barras went over for her second try of the game and that seemed that.

But the Canadians had not read the script and came storming back. With most of England's first choice forwards now on the bench Canada came within inches of stealing the match - a last ditch tackle by Kim Shaylor denying a third Canadian try in the 79th minute - and England hung on.

New Zealand had few problems overcoming France in the other semi (40-10) and so the two teams will meet on Sunday in a repeat of the 2002 final.

Up until yesterday England seemed to be the form side - each perfromance better than the last while the Kiwis seemed to have peaked early. And it may well be that England relaxed too soon here, taking the place in the final for granted.

Where they have met common opposition New Zealand (Canada and France) have produced more convincing wins that England have managed, and must start on Sunday clear favourites. But if anyone can stop them it is England.

Incidentally you may be wondering - does all this matter? How would an England win affect me? Well, about 13 years ago the same two countries met in a women's world cup final where New Zealand started as favourites. It was also a time when the English men's team was pretty hopeless, and so when the England team won - and on TV too (thanks to a last minute change of mind at the BBC) - an event that had been ignored up until then suddenly grabbed headlines. Stars were born. Bouyed up on this the separate women's and men's governing bodies merged, with the women getting a cut of all of the men's sponsorship deals, and inclusion in TV contracts. The game remains now one of the highest profile women's team sports, with its national team taking part in an open-top bus ride through London last summer after they beat Australia. Before the win the sport struggled to raise even regional teams, now virtually every county has a side.

That sport was cricket, not rugby. But it shows why winning things like the World Cup is important. The parallels between women's rugby today and women's cricket in 1993 are remarkable - and if England win on Sunday it could be your sport that gets the open top bus treatment in 10 years time or so. And you might even be on the bus!

So - come on England!

World Cup: England through to semi-finals!

The long wait until midnight last night was rewarded by what in the end was a remarkably comfortable win by England over France to gain a well deserved semi-final berth. A dominant English forward display meant that France rarely threatened the English line.

England's first try can on eight minute from wing Danielle Waterman, picking up from behind a stong forward drive, and similar forward pressure - this time a scrum - saw the a second try by Danielle just before half time. With Sue Day scoring two more tries within ten minutes of the restart England were home and dry. The final score was 27-8, but that barely reflects the English dominance - it wasn't until the 71st minute that France made any impact on the scoreboard.

Elsewhere perhaps the performance of the night came from Scotland. With two wins under their belts already a semi-final berth was there for the taking - just New Zealand stood in their way! In a terrific game the Scots held off the Kiwi charge for 56 minutes knowing that a single bonus point would see them into the semis. But then the dam burst, with New Zealanders running in three tries in six minutes to take the game but - to Scotland's credit - not a bonus point.

In the remaining games Canada beat Kazakhstan 45-5, Ireland beat South Africa 37-0, Spain made up for a things in the earlier game with a 14-12 winover Samoa, and the USA continued to do well with a 10-6 win of over Australia.

So who went through? The USA finished sixth thanks on nine points, but Scotland, France and Canada finishing on 10 - so it was down to tries scored... and it was Scotland lost out.

So on Tuesday England play Canada (at midnight our time again) after New Zealand have taken on France, which should give us the much anticipated Anglo-Kiwi final next Sunday.

Update...

One remarkable, and hiterto uncommented on fact, is that this semi-final line up is exactly the same as four years ago (when England beat Canada 53-10 and New Zealand beat France 30-0). In addition the three teams of the four teams competing for 5th to 8th place are also the same as four years ago (USA, Australia and Scotland being joined by Ireland this time instead of Spain).

Latest county newsletter published

The sixth county newsletter - and the first of the new season - has been published.

The latest edition headlines the trials and development day at Stevenage on 17th, but also includes a summary of the main news items of the summer and a diary of key dates for the season and a contact listing of county coaches and managers.

Also now available is the registration form for the county day. Every player attending the day must arrive with a completed form as it provides important information for the organisers as well as essential parental permissions.

Female forwards day!

Old Albanians Rugby Club (Harpenden Road, St Albans) are running a special "forwards day" on Saturday 16th September 2006 from 9am-1pm to learn more about the skills involved in Forwards Rugby.

Females aged 18 and over of all abilities are welcome to come along and get quality coaching on scrummaging, line outs, specific training and conditioning and back row moves, plus more.
Cost: £5 to include BBQ lunch

For more details or to come along, contact Karina Page on 07921189900 or

County trials: What you need to know...

The season's barely started but trials are already only a week and a half away (though if you think that is early its worth bearing in mind that Essex held their trials the better part of two months ago, so we have some cathing up to do!).

So what's the lowdown?

Where and when... Stevenage Rugby Club, from 2.00 to c4.00. Registration from 1.30 - forms will be distributed beforehand. You are asked not to arrive too much before 1.30 so as not to collide with the tail end of Stevenage's morning training.

Bring with you... Registration form with parental permissions signed; rugby boots; gumshield. Gumshields are now compulsory in all girls' rugby so if you do not have one, or have incorrect footwear, or you do not have written parental permission you will not be allowed to trial!! Full stop. No exceptions.

What's going to happen? See the earlier note on this. Clubs are requested to contact Vicky and Luke with details of expected numbers of U17 trialists as soon as possible. If you have fewer than 10 girls then if possible please make arrangements to combine with another club before the trials. This can be organised on the day, but the more that can be done beforehand the smoother things will run.

What if someone cannot make the 17th? If one of your U17s cannot make the trials on the 17th for any reason then he tell Luke now! He and Vicky will then try to make arrangements to watch them before the trials.

Enjoy. We have listened and learned and the aim is that the day should be as fun and enjoyable as possible, whether you are selected for the county squad or not. That's partly why we've moved away from drills with the U17s. You come to rugby to play rugby, not to do drills!

There will be a newsletter out hopefully by the weekend, though it will contain nothing that has not appeared on this blog.

World Cup: England march on...

A throughly professional and effective performance by England saw them run in twelve tries against South Africa and rack up the largest total by any team in the world cup so far... until Canada beat it a couple of hours later!

74-8 was the score at Ellerslie Rugby Park in Edmonton, with the try scoring bonus point wrapped up before half time thanks to a brace of tries from Nicky Crawford, one from captain Sue Day, and another from Shelly Rae - who is now the tournament's highest scorer with 27 points thanks to the eight conversions she also kicked.

Another eight tries followed in the second half, including a three more from left wing Sue Day who was clearly having the sort of day that most people can only dream about. The only blot on the copybook came on 62 minutes when the South African pack managed to drive their flanker over the line for their only try of the game.

Anyway - lots of comment and more detailed reports will appear on the RFUW website and elsewhere (hopefully) - but the questionis... where does this leave things?

Because England were not the only team playing impressively. In the game of the night France - England's next opponents - put in an impressive performance, complete with try bonus, beating Australia 24-10. In fact that scoreline flatters Australia a bit - France were 17-0 up at half time with three tries already on the board, and had their bonus point wrapped up and pocketed before the Aussies had managed to cross their line for the one and only time.

Its not as if Australia are a poor side - though they are not the giants of the women's game as their men are - they racked up 68 points against South Africa last Thursday, only two tries less than England last night. Also if England have the tournaments best scorer then France have the second best - right-wing Catherine Devilliers, who has score five tries so far.

Elsewhere New Zealand ran in 50 unanswered points against Samoa, Canada destroyed a woeful Spain 79-0, the USA came back from their defeat against England to beat Ireland 24-11 and Scotland continued their 100% record with a 32-17 win over Kazakhstan.

Which leaves us with only four unbeaten teams, three (New Zealand, France and Scotland) on maximum 10 points and England one behind on 9. However with New Zealand also playing Scotland on Friday as well as France playing Engalnd only two teams can hope to finish the pool stage unbeaten. So there is hope yet for Samoa (who should destroy Spain), Canada (who will be too much for Kazakhstan) and either the USA or Australia who provide the warm-up act before the France/England battle.

Predictions? England should have enough to get by France - just. Certainly not by 30+ points they managed in Paris! And England know that they HAVE to win - defeat will almost certainly see them out before the semi-final stage. France - onthe other hand - can still qualify even if they lose, and just a single bonus point should be enough to secure a top four place.

My guess (my hope?) is that as Saturday dawns we will see a final pool table looking like this:

1. New Zealand (15); 2. England (13); 3. France (11); 4=. Canada, Scotland (10); 6=. Samoa, USA (9); 8. Australia (6); 9. Ireland (5); 10=. Kazakhstan, South Africa, Spain (0).

New title - wider coveage

At last nights ever so slightly sparsely attended county meeting (thank you Tabard, Welwyn, Saracens, OAs and Letchworth for turning up, and for Hitchin for at least sending apologies - but where were the rest of you?) it was requested that this blog broaden its scope a bit and so (da-da-da-dah!!!) a slight change of title.

So what difference will it make? Well basically material I receive connected with the adult game will now appear here as well. I won't be doing a retrospective search and adding "old" news - ie. anything from the adult game that happened or was announced before today - because that way a degree of madness lies, but any new stuff I get will appear here. So spread the word!

I'll grant you that my links with the adult game is not as good as with the junior, so I'll be relying on people telling me things a bit more!

World Cup: Free "highlights" available

Roughly 90-second clips from each of the games in the opening phase if the World Cup can now be downloaded. Click here now to see the best women rugby players in the world in action!

And tonight its round two with England aiming to get maximum points against South Africa. The coach - Geoff Richards - is ringing the changes a bit so as to rest some players before the crucial game with France on Friday. Is this wise? Log in tonight to find out!

URGENT: Feedback wanted on last year's regional programme

If you were in a regional squad last season Claire Sanderson at RFUW wants to know what you though about the experience.

There is a meeting in Loughborough on 12th September, but if you cannot make it (and most will not be able to) please contact Claire (clairesanderson@rfu.com) by 6th September with your comments, views, experience, recommendations, suggestions... ANYTHING AT ALL!!

In the end it is YOUR programme designed to make you a better player, and what people like Claire want to know is if it is working and how it could be made better.

So drop her a line. Now!

County trials: How far could rugby take you?

If you are a U17 then about 7,000 miles... or the west coast of the USA to be exact!

If you need an incentive to get into the county or regional team then how about being part of the first ever girls' rugby tour of the USA and Canada?

Today it has been announced that the RFUW have given permission for the official East Region's girls' U18 squad to take visit North America in July 2008. It will be the U18 squad because, as you will remember, age bands change next season. This means that it will effectively be the same as the U17 squad that is selected this season.

Ideas in the ambitious plan includes possible participation in a USA's West Coast championship (to be held in Washington State) or a similar inter-state tournament to be followed by games with at least one Canadian provincial team. The tour will take place in July 2008 as this best co-incides with both the US and Canadian seasons.

And - of course - the first stage in selection for the tour will be the county trials in Stevenage on the 17th - because "closed" regional trails mean that if you are not in a county squad its unlikely you'll make the regional squad.

Why North America? Because girls' rugby is a a BIG thing over there – a quarter of all American rugby players are women, and the attitude to the female game in the USA in particular seems to be hugely positive. East can expect a warm welcome, with plenty of top quality rugby in two different countries.

Clearly there will be a lot to do before then. Such tours are not "free" and there is a great deal of planning to do. But with the better part of two years to plan and fund raise for the trip it should be a event that you will remember forever.

And the first step to getting on that plane is only two weeks away...

As for the U14s the problem we face is that there is not the range of opposition available for the younger age group. This is also a huge step into the unknown, so we need to get it right. And if do and all goes well then we can expect future tours to follow - in both direction. So the intention is that you will get a chance - next time!

What's it like to be an international rugby player?

You cannot get a better idea that three blogs which a couple of players are doing during the World Cup. Okay, they are US players (scrumhalves Lee Knight and Claudia Braymer, and prop Jamie Burke) but its still really great stuff.

You can almost smell the Ralgex!

Take a look!

County trials: a day not to be missed!

County trials are only two week away - and it it promises to be an great afternoon's rugby.

For the under 14s it will be the first chance for those taking up the game this year to meet and work with other girls from across the county. And for the more experienced U14s its going to be time for them to step up and take on the role of leading new county team - possibly for the next two years, thanks to the age group changes next season.

For the under 17s the coaches have decided to replace the rather stale round of drills (which tend only to highlight girls who are good at drills) with more matchplay. A 10-a-side inter-club tournament is therefore planned. Clubs with fewer than 10 U17s (or with spare playerws in exces of 10) will combine together - so even if you are the only U17 at your club you should stil come along.

Registration at Stevenage RFC will begin at 1.30 with the aim for 2.00 start, and a 4.00 finish. Directions can be found here.

World Cup: England begin with a win.

England have started their World Cup campaign with a win, but it was a frustrating night for everyone on both sides of the Atlantic.

Followers of the game around the world attempting to use the internet-based live broadcast were faced with blank screens for part or all of some of the first round games - including England's match. Australia's game with South Africa was unavailable until the second half, and there were reports from some viewers of problems with the Katakhstan/Samoa feed as well.

Then - just as everyone was taking their seat's for the game of the night- a power cut at England's ground cut transmission before it had begun. Second half coverage was promised but whether this came on I cannot confirm as your correspondent had given up by that point.

The good news is that the semi-finals and final will be on Sky - assuming England get there.

They should do - but fact is that last night it was well into the second half before England broke the deadlock, and it was not until the the USA were reduced to 14 players by a sin-binning that England were able to force their way across the Americans' line. And in a game dominated by the forwards and robust defending it was not until the last minute before England were able cross the line again.

The size of England's task was emphasised by 66-7 thrashing New Zealand gave to Canada earlier in the day. Canada beat the USA only a few weeks ago, and are seeded two places above them for this tournament. On this evidence there is a gap of some 30 points between the top two seeds.

But teams can peak too early in tournament like this. England's Six Nations had a shaky start as well, with England going behind to Wales at OAs before eventually winning the game - and then then tournament - quite comfortably. Hopefully this is just eveidence of a slow start again.

Elsewhere Australia beat England's next opponents - South Africa - by 68-12, a margin of victory that England should significantly exceed on Monday if they are to show progress. France - England's final pool opponents - beat Ireland 43-0, and play Australia next. Scotland recorded a comfortable win over Spain and may have a good chance of a semi-final place, while in the final game Samoa prepared for their game with the Kiwis on Monday with a 20-5 win over Kazakhstan.

• More photographs, a detailed match report, and reaction from the England camp can be found on the RFUW website.

World Cup kicks off TODAY!

Its only hours away now.

At midnight tonight, our time, the team many of us saw lift the Six Nations title at Old Albanians in March start their World Cup campaign against the USA.

That's a heck of an opponent to draw first up - possibly the strongest opponents in the tournament other New Zealand - it'll give us the best indication yet as to how England will do. New Zealand also have a tricky opener against hosts Canada, who drew their recent two-match series with the USA.

England are also due to take on South Africa (who they beat by over 100 points in 2005) on Monday (9.30pm our time) and then France (who England beat fairly comfortably in Paris in February) in their final pool game on Friday (also midnight our time). Then its the semi-finals the 12th, and - hopefully - the final at midnight on Sunday 17th September (county trials day!).

Anyway - spare a thought to the team when you go to bed tonight. After all, in a few years' time, it could be you!

PS - Good article in The Times (who actually have a correspondent out there, ex-England cricketer Sarah Potter) and Planet Rugby have a preview as well.

RFUW Launch U17 Talent Development Group (TDG)

With the England Women's team now in Canada for the Women’s Rugby World Cup, the RFUW is looking forward to the development of players who will represent England in the future, and has announced the introduction of a U17 Talent Development Group (TDG) which will provide selected players with a thorough individual development programme.

Following a series of "Talent Identification Days" in October , approximately thirty players will be invited to join the national "TDG"which will meet regularly throughout the year.

Players will receive:

• Core rugby skill development
• Game understanding
• Strength and Conditioning education and development workshops
• Nutritional advice
• Sports psychology
• Performance Lifestyle
• Online player diaries
• Player kit

The aim is that "TDG" will be a ‘step up’ from Regional rugby and will underpin and raise the standard of England representative squad for years to come.

Players from Hertfordshire who attended the U14 & U17 PDA’s in Guildford last summer will receive a letter inviting them to a "Talent Identification Day" ("TID") on 26th October, and county coaches will be invited to nominate ‘wild cards’ to the "TID" days. Selection and identification of players to attend the "TDG" will also be on-going throughout the season.

In February 2007, the RFUW also will be launching an U14 Talent Development Group - more information on this will be published nearer the time

A comprehensive document with further information about the programme is available via the following link

TDG Programme Presentation.pdf

A new season dawns. County trials and more...

Many will have already started training, but the new rugby season officially starts on Sunday. Seems like it ended only yesterday!

This also means that county trials are barely a fortnight away - they are earlier in the seaosn than last year, and MUCH more important because they are now your gateway to regional selection. Regional trails will be a "closed" event this year - so if you are not put forward by your county coaches you will not be able to attend!

More details about how trails will work will appear next week, but they will be at Stevenage and the plan for the U17 selection at least is that it is likely based on game play, rather than just drills, with a 10-a-side inter-club tournament under discussion.

U14 selection should be much less formal, not least because many girls will have barely statred playing the game. Simply showing the commitment to attend the trials will count heavily in your favour - so come along, regardless of your experience!

Next week should also see a major announcement which should make selection for the U17 squad even keener. No more yet - but watch this space...

Beckenham & Rochford festivals

All clubs should now have received entry forms for the Beckenham and Rochford festivals , which take place next month. Both U17 and U14 events are now planned for both dates - 8th October at Beckenham and 22nd at Rochford.

If you have not heard anything and want to enter please contact Lorraine Hooton at Beckenham and Tina Turner at Rochford.

Watch every match LIVE from the Women's Rugby World Cup

While we await any news about UK TV broadcasts (... long silence ...) , the IRB has announced that it is bringing you will be able to watch every match LIVE or replayed as live from the IRB Women's Rugby World Cup 2006 through the internet.

The tournament, which is being staged in Edmonton, Canada, begins on 31 August and climaxes with the final on 17 September. The Black Ferns of New Zealand are the defending champions but the competition is set to be stiffer than ever.

You can watch a single match LIVE for £2.50. Or you can follow ENgland through their three pool games, LIVE, for £6.50. Access to every single game is also available via a "tournament pass", covering all 30 games, costing £49.99. There are also packages for the semi finals and final.

You can also watch a replay of every match as live, for £1.50. More details at http://www.rwcwomens.com/EN/News/video+home.htm

U17 and U14 National Cup: entries now open

Entries are now being invited by RFUW for the 2007-8 U17 and U14 National Cup Competitions . This will be the first year that there has been an official U14 cup following last years pilot "Midlands Cup" event.

All affilliated clubs should have received details now from Richard Tamplin at RFUW, but in summary entries need to be in by 16th October. £90 entrance fee must be paid and £50 of this is a returnable deposit if all fixtures are met.

Round one will be on 26th November 2006 and will consist of two 16 team tournaments covering the "north" and "south" of England (however defined, but its a reasonable assumption that we'll be in the South). Entrance on a first come first served basis. Maximum Squad size 25.

4 Pools of 4 teams – The draw for the pools will be done at random. Matches to be played to U17 / U14 RFUW Age Band Rules. Top teams from each pool go through to the 2nd Round

Round two will be on 4th Feb 2007. 4 teams - round robin play each other at one venue
The winning side from the pool goes through to challenge the winner of the north section in the final on 15th April 2007.

Does your club need any money?

Funding is available now!

The Local Network Fund – a Department for Education and Skills fund administered by the Hertfordshire Community Foundation enables local voluntary groups (including sports clubs) to develop projects and activities for "young people who have limited opportunities or access to services" (a definition that particularly and unequivically includes girls' sports teams). The aim is to improve outcomes for children and young people enabling them to thrive and reach their full potential.

Grants can be made to locally managed voluntary and community groups working with young people aged under 19 years (up to 25 for those with learning disabilities).

Applications are invited under the following themes:

• Being healthy Activities that promote a healthy lifestyle so that children and young people are able to enjoy good health, including - Sports sessions - Healthy eating classes - Peer support programmes on drug misuse
• Staying safe Activities that contribute to children and young people being protected from harm and neglect and growing up able to look after themselves, for instance: - Anti bullying projects - Safe cycling groups - After-school clubs - Child Contact Centres
• Enjoying and achieving Activities that help children and young people maximise their potential and develop skills for adulthood, for example: - Theatre arts groups - Self advocacy skills programmes - Cultural dance and music projects
• Making a positive contribution Activities which enable children and young people use their skills and abilities in ways to enhance their own lives and the lives of their community, for example: - Conservation schemes - Recycling programmes - Mentoring projects
• Achieving economic well-being Activities which help children and young people overcome income barriers and achieve their full potential in life, such as: - Preparation for work and training - Financial literacy classes for young people

... and with a bit of thought most clubs could reasonably make a bid under several of these headings.

There are some limitations on who and what can’t be funded, but these shoudl not cause a problem in most cases:

• Individuals
• Statutory organisations (such as schools)
• Trips abroad
• Activities helping only one child or family
• Groups based outside Hertfordshire
• Groups with a turnover of more than £100,000
• Projects for personal profit
• Groups where the primary purpose is to promote political or religious beliefs.
• Organisations that already hold a Local Network Fund grant (for the current financial year)
• Grant making bodies.

Grants range from £250 to £7,000. They can be awarded for projects that last up to one year. The fund will close in March 2008 at which time all projects must be completed.

To ask for an Application pack call the LNF National call centre on 0845 1130 161.

These packs include further guidance for applicants and the contact number for your local Council for Voluntary Service (CVS) representative who can provide advice and help with completing your application form.

There is more information on the fund on the LNF website: www.everychildmatters.gov.uk/localnetworkfund.

For additional information please contact Helen Doubal, Local Network Fund Officer

Vacancy for Community Rugby Coach (Hertfordshire): Paid position

Rugby Football Union
Community Rugby Coach
Hertfordshire
Full Time – 35 hours per week
Salary: £16K - £18K pa plus benefits and expenses
2 year contract (subject to funding)

The Rugby Football Union, in association with its partners (Saracens Ltd and Hertfordshire RFU), is looking to appoint a rugby coach as part of Sport England’s Community Sports Coaches Scheme (CSCS) to deliver its development programmes in Hertfordshire.

Responsibilities:

• To deliver rugby coaching to young people in local schools and within the districts, as directed by the Rugby Development Officer (RDO) and CRC Management Group.
• To introduce leadership skills to young people and provide ongoing support and sustainability by delivering teacher and coach education.
• To take a professional approach in the planning, preparation and organisation of the coaching programme.
• To maintain a comprehensive schedule of coaching as established and administered by the RDO and Management Group.

Qualifications:

Must be educated to at least 'GCSE' standard preferably with at least five GCSEs at grade C or above.

Will have experience of coaching children and young people.
Preferred candidates should also hold:

• an RFU coaching qualification (preferably Level 2).
• A National Foundation Referees Certificate Part 1.
• A recognised First Aid qualification.
• Current Driving Licence

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

Ideally successful candidates should have a good knowledge and understanding of the game and the operation of junior, youth and senior rugby in Hertfordshire. They should be keen to develop a career in the sports sector and to develop their personal skills. You must have use of a car to carry out your duties.

Closing date for aplications: Monday 21st August, 2006
Interviews will be held on: 30th August 2006

Applications should be made using an RFU Application Form, which can be obtained by downloading from the RFU website careers page. Alternatively, for an information pack or application form, you can call our recruitment hotline 0870 143 2404; or e-mail recruitment@therfu.com. When completing your application please quote job reference code: CRC/297/Herts

For further information, and an informal discussion please contact Peter Engledow, RFU Rugby Development Officer (Herts) – 07764 960407. Please submit completed applications to: The Recruitment Officer, Rugby Football Union, Rugby House, Rugby Road, Twickenham, TW1 1DS or to recruitment@therfu.com.

The Criminal Records Bureau enhanced disclosure process applies to this post

Key dates for 2006/7

County dates:

U14s

• 17th September (Selection at Stevenage)
• 15th October (Training at St Christopher School)
• 12th November (Inter-county tournament at TBC)
• 3rd December (Inter-county tournament at Westcliff)

U17s

• 17th September (Selection at Stevenage)
• 27th September (Evening training at Sports Village, Hatfield)
• 15th October (Training at St Christopher School)
• 18th October (Evening training at Sports Village, Hatfield)
• 12th November (U14 & U17 squads: Inter-county tournament at Grove RFC, Oxon)
  (U17 Barbarians: Training at Old Albanians)
• 22nd November (U17 squad: Evening training at Sports Village, Hatfield)
• 3rd December (Inter-county tournament at Westcliff)

Regional dates:

Seniors

• Trials: 3rd December (St Christopher School, Letchworth) and 28th January (King's School, Ely)
• Training: 3rd February, 17th February, 10th March (all Culford School)
• Fixtures: 11th February - v South East (Basildon)
  25th February - v North East (Ely RFC)
  18th March - v East Midlands (Coalville)
  31st March - Senior regional finals (Wasps)
  

Juniors

• Trials: 28th January (Ely RFC)
• Training: 11th February, 25th February, 11th March, 22nd April (all Culford School)
• Fixtures: 18th March - v East Midlands (Aylestone St James)
  1st April - v Yorkshire & North East (Ely RFC)
• National Festival: now 6th/7th May (Rugby School?)

England dates:

• Six Nations: England v Scotland - 3rd February (Old Albanians)
• Six Nations: England v Italy - 10th February (Twickenham)
• Six Nations: England v Frabce - 11th March (Old Albanians)

Club dates:

Festivals

• Beckenham festival: 8th October
• Rochford festival: 22nd October
• London North senior regional tens : 28th April. (Colchester RFC)
• London North U17 regional tens : 28th April. (Hemel Hempsted)
• National tens (U17 & senior): 12/13th May ("Midlands" - TBA)
• "Regional" (Hertfordshire?) Sevens: 20th May
• National Sevens: 26th-27th May (Leighton Buzzard)

National Knock-out cup

• Round one: 26th November
• Round two: 4th February
• Final: 15th April

Schools dates:

• 3rd-17th September: "World Cup projects and development days"
• 3rd-11th February: "Six Nations projects and trips"
• 18th February-10th March: "Preparation for U14 emerging schools - local competitions, Six Nations trips, and projects"
• 11th March: U14 Emerging Schools qualifiers
• 18th March: "Six Nations projects and trips"
• 5th May: Emerging Schools Finals (tbc)

Promoting girls' rugby - USA style

USA Rugby have come up with a new and interesting recruitment poster. The simplicity of style of interesting compared with those from RFUW. Which is more effective?

What is even more interesting is that the recruitment posters for boys and adult rugby follow the same style - and that the adult poster gives equal prominence to men's and women's rugby!

Coaching "beyond Level 1"

Also new this season are a series of coach training evenings called "Beyond Level One", aimed at extending the abilities of Level One coaches who may feel reluctant to go straight for a full Level Two qualification (though they will also provide candidates a good base before they start their Level Two course). The sessions will cost £10.00 per candidate and you can pitch up on the night, but obviously if possible it would be good if your club could advise approximate numbers.

All courses will take place at Welwyn RFC, due to its central position within the County.

• Principles of Attack Wed 27 September
• Understanding Defence Wed 18 October
• Building a Scrum Wed 8 November
• Lineout- Technical and Tactical Wed 13 December
• Continuity Skills Wed 10 January
• Coaching Process Skills Wed 21 February

Contact your club's coaching officer or Peter Engledow (peterengledow@rfu.com) for more details.

Be more than just a spectator!

Calling all parents! Do you spend hours standing on the touchline every season? Well, now there are more opportunties than ever that will allow you to become a more active in helping your team.

If you are interested contact your club first - they will have a coaching officer who will have application forms. They may well also pay your fees for you.

But if you wish to book independently course close 3 weeks before start date. Forms are available from Peter Engledow (peterengledow@rfu.com) and need to be returned to him at University of Hertfordshire Office A/ 561, College Lane , Hatfield, Herts AL10 9AB. Cheques payable to RFDL.

START RUGBY
A new introductory course designed to give volunteers some basic ideas for drills and games-orientated coaching, especially for players new to the game. £25.00 per candidate.

• Wed 11 Oct – Welwyn Rfc 7pm -9.30pm
• Sat 14 Oct – Fullerians Rfc 10am -12.30pm

TAG RUGBY
The basic introductory game generally played at club level by U8s and below, but also used as a means of bringing new players into the game throughout the primary school age group - and sometimes beyond up to U14 level. This form of the game is also used at all county Youth Games - an excellent recruitment ground for girls' rugby. £25.00 per candidate.

• Wed 18 Oct – Old Verulamian RFC 7pm -9.30pm
• Sat 21 Oct – Hertford Rfc 10 am -12.30pm

Win a training session with the England women's team

Fancy testing your skills against some of the finest women's rugby players around? The BBC are giving girls the chance to train with the England women's rugby team at their base in Loughborough on 16 August.

The Women's Six Nations champions will be preparing for the Rugby World Cup in Edmonton, Canada, which begins on 31 August. The winners will have lunch with the entire squad before lacing their boots up for a training session with members of the England team.

To win this fantastic prize, all you have to do is: Explain, in no more than 50 words, why they should choose you to train with the England women's rugby squad. Be as original as possible with your answer, we want something that stands out from the crowd.

Ideally, they would like the winners to have previous rugby experience, but it's not essential - a passion for the game, however, is a must. A runner-up will receive a signed England shirt and a bag of rugby goodies.

But note : the closing date is Monday 7 August.

More details and entry form at http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/rugby_union/get_involved/5194002.stm

Regional fixtures 2006/7

East region's fixtures for 2006/7 have now been released. U14s and U17s this year will play the same opponents:

Sunday 18th March: East Midlands vs East (Coalville?)
Sunday 1st April: East vs North East vs Yorkshire (TBA - but somewhere in East Region)
Sunday 6th May: U14 regional championship (TBC - Rugby School?)
Monday 7th May: U17 regional championship (TBC - Rugby School?)

Support the region: coaches and managers wanted

Application are invited for a range of posts at East Region (and - come to that - every other region as well). Posts for which applications are requested include:

• Programme manager
• Team coach (all age groups)
• Team manager (all age groups)
• Welfare manager

A small remuneration is available for each post, along with travel and other expenses. For application forms and further details contact Claire Sanderson (ClaireSanderson@rfu.com).

Failure to apply for anything disbars anyone from making any complaints about all the posts being taken by people from Essex!

Regional Programme Review - make your views known

The RFUW is forming a Regional Programme Review Group to to look at the design and rationale behind the programme and are inviting comments on the current format and suggestions for the future.

The suggested main areas for discussion is "Development vs Talent Identification"

Although it does act as a Talent Identification System for both Youth and Seniors, it also plays a role in allowing women and girls to play the full sided game and receive new coaching ideas to feed into their clubs. However, is there too much emphasis on Talent Identification and should the programme be all about development? Alternatively do you think the programme does not reflect the competitive needs of those aspiring to be England Players of the future?

Questions to consider:

Youth

• Selection: Should Trials be open or through County/Club nominations? Are the trials in their current format suitable?
• Developmental or Talent Identification? Is it possible to combine the two? How?
• Should all Youth Players selected for a Regional Squad have the right to equal playing time within the programme or should the emphasis be on allowing the more talented players time on the pitch?
• Should the ethos for the programme be about performing to the highest level or about having fun? Is it the same for both age groups?
• Should the Royal Sun Alliance Tournament be about winning or about ensuring that everybody gets at least 1 game?

Senior

• Selection - Trials and/or County/Club nomination? Should there be a guideline on which players would be suitable?
• Should the Senior Programme be development or Talent Identification orientated?
• Should players who have climbed the Pathway to England and are on their way down be eligible?
• Should Representative players (i.e. England U19s and England Students) be considered for the relevant age-groups? Should players selected for Super 4s and Super League but not selected for the England 44 be allowed to trial for Senior Regional?
• Should there be an age-limit for Senior Programme candidates e.g. U23s or U25s?

NB These questions are not exhaustive and are a guideline for your suggestions. If you wish to discuss one of the questions, clearly state which one in your feedback. If you wish to discuss elements of the programme not included so far please feel free to do so. RFUW greatly appreciate suggestions as well as constructive criticism.

Any suggestions and comments will be considered by the Review Group, and their findings will be presented to the RFUW Board once the consultation is completed. The Development & Performance Departments will then examine ways in which these findings can be implemented for the future running of the Programme.

RFUW are also interested in thoughts about the current format. As always funding is limited, but suggestions on how we can make the most of the funding available are also welcome.

Expressions of interest are also invited from those wishing to be considered to sit on the Regional Programme Review GroupThe Review Group is expected to meet no more than four times over the next season with the first meeting on Saturday August 12th. (other dates will be: Sat 7th Oct, Sunday 12th Nov, Sunday 1st April).

Comments to the review and expressions of interest should be forwarded to Claire Sanderson on clairesanderson@rfu.com. Please include “Regional Programme Review” in the subject line of all e-mails.

Become the most important person on the field

It does not matter how many players you have , how well trained they are, and what positions they play in - without a referee they'll never get a game.

The girls' game in particular is always short of officials - so why not encourage a few volunteers at your club to get qualified?

A Mini / Midi Referee Course is being run at University of Hertfordshire De Havilland Campus(Hatfield) on Saturday 7th October. Coaches, parents and ex-players are all welcome.

You owe it to yourself and the players under you to make sure you are fully up to date with the Laws of the Game and covered with reference to the Child Protection Act and “Duty of Care” .. no matter if it’s Mini/Midi or the 15-a-side game – junior or adult then here’s a chance to obtain full official accreditation from the Rugby Football Union

Whether it be only to referee members of your own club or join a referee society and referee at the highest levels, then this course will get you an RFU accreditation to help you do so!

Contact: Bill Ractliffe 01727 766987 or 07710 058187 or bill.ractliffe@ntlworld.com for details.
The Mini / Midi Referee course on the 7th is designed for anyone wishing to referee any game from Under 7s through to Under 12s, but there are other courses coming up as well for other age groups. Contact Bill for details.

Please note the closing date for the above course is Monday 11 September. Cost £30 – includes all course literature, worksheets, Law Books and official RFU Accreditation documents.

Club co-ordinators' meeting

For the development of your club the Herts Rugby Development Team have organised a development evening, ‘Tackling Safety’ for your Club Coach Coordinators and Club Reps.
The session will be held at a venue TBC on the 4th Sept and will start promptly at 19:30 hrs, so please be early. The likely venue will be the University of Hertfordshire or a central club like Welwyn.

The areas that will be covered are as follows:

• Tackling Safety/Contact
• Coaching Database
• Non-Award Courses
• Best Practice
• Q & A.

The session will be split into 3 sections:

• Intro / Booklet
• Practical
• Q & A/ feedback

Therefore it will be important that the attendees are able to feedback and deliver the Non-Award Courses to your club coaches. Please feel free to invite club members who you feel might be the best persons at your club to deliver to your club coaches.

If your club is still to identify a Club Coach Coordinator please do so and contact Peter Engledow with details.

To confirm you attendance, (with names of attendee(s)) email Peterengledow@rfu.com

Peter Engledow, Jamie Traxon & Ben Taylor
Herts Rugby Development Team

Relive England's Six Nations triumph

You can now relive the highlights of almost all of England's Six Nations campaign at SportUK.TV. This free website - officially supported by RFUW - has recently been redesigned and gives video highlights of all of England's home games, as well as most away fixtures.

So if you are suffering from rugby withdrawl symtoms you can help alleviate this by not only reliving the two victorious days at Old Albanians, but also by watching highlights of England's wins at Murryfield and Paris.

(And for those who weren't at OAs - yes, it really was as cold as it looks.

No - thinking about it - it was colder!)

Can you help to run the new adult county team?

Can you spare time to help the an adult county team?

The U17s and U14s had a great start last year, and now we want to give the same opportunities to adult players in Hertfordshire. But the teams do not run themselves and a few volunteers are needed to step forward and make it happen. Basically we need coaches and administrative support:
County Coach details:

There are vacancies for a Head Coach and both a backs and a forwards coach

The W & G RDO , with the Herts Sports Partnership, is seeking to appoint a Head Coach and both backs and forwards coaches for a County Senior Women’s Team. The coaches should have experience of coaching women in rugby, and will be able to deliver a coaching programme suitable to ensure further development of the players. The Head Coach will be at least a level 2 coach, working towards level 3, and the assistant coaches ideally will also be level 2. They will work as a team to organise a trials and selection process and then deliver suitable coaching plan.

All the coaches will need to have good communication and organisational skills, both verbally and written, and will be on e-mail. References as to suitability and experience will be taken and as some players at senior level may be under 18 years of age, coaches will need to agree to be CRB checked.

The coaches will need to be willing to work with the Herts Girls and Women’s Rugby Development Group, at least one of them attending each meeting of the group. The Group meets about every 6 weeks during the season.

The RDO is committed to supporting and developing coaches and follows the guidelines set out by the Herts Sports Partnership for the employment and deployment of coaches across the county.

Administrative support:

There are vacancies for a Team Manager, Press Officer, Kit Manager, and Fixtures Secretary.

The W & G RDO , with the Herts Sports Partnership is seeking to appoint a team, comprising of a Team Manager, Kit Manager, Fixtures Secretary and Press Officer, to help run a Senior Women’s County Rugby Team.

Excellent communication and organisational skills are essential, as is an understanding of women’s rugby. Successful applicants must be on e-mail and will have good verbal and written communication skills. References as to suitability for these positions will be taken.

How to apply

For further details and an application form, please contact Amanda Bate by e-mail: A.1.Bate@herts.ac.uk, or phone on: 01707 281008, or write to: Amanda Bate, Active Sports, Rugby Development Officer (Girls and Women), Hertfordshire Sports Village, De Havilland Campus, Hatfield Business Park, Hatfield, Herts AL10 9EU.

Closing date: 15th August.

Athlete Support Programme: Contact numbers

We've now had the first three sessions and - after a good initial turnout - there have been a few no-shows.

This is inevitable - people are ill - but if you have any problems getting to any future sessions it is essential that you contact Fiona or Amanda as soon as possible. Do not leave this until the last minute. Essentially you are also expected to attend unless you are actually ill in bed as even if that just means you watch the active sessions you will still gain something!

If you have any problems at all you must phone as soon as possible - Amanda can be reached (or texted) on 07871 589454. You can also reach Fiona via the Sports Centre reception on 01707 284466.

This is the first year girls have been involved with this, so the impression you give will be remembered. Failure to attend not only jeapodises your place on the programme, but the future involvement of all girls. So work with each other to make it a success - encourage each other, and if a friend of your's has travel problems (for example) see if you can offer them a lift!

One last thing is that you need to remember to bring with you the books you were given. Few of you did, apparently.

Girls U14 Emerging Schools 2006/7: Start planning NOW!

Details are beginning to emerge about the new Girls U14 "Emerging School" championship", which will run next season.

The Emerging Schools tournament - sponsored by The Daily Mail - has been running for some years, and the schools final at Twickenham is now an established (and very successful) event. Last year - for the first time - some girls schools were included in a relatively small scale pilot event, but it caught the headlines and so next season its going national.

Grants will be available through Herts Sports Partnership (ie. Amanda) to get coaches into schools across the county. The plan is to have district level events in the autumn, leading to a county tournament in February. The best teams from that will go onto regional finals on 11th March and the national final at Twickenham on 5th May.

Clearly a base of girls playing rugby at school must benefit clubs, so if at all possible you will be (indeed probably are already being) encouraged to work with your local schools to get this going.

But clearly NOW is the time to start. If you leave it until September then local PE teachers will already have their plans for the year in place and you're going to miss out. To get schools up and running sufficient for the district and county tournaments you really need to be able to hit the ground running at the start of the Autumn term.

One thing in everyone's favour will be that the World Cup in Canada will be taking place at the beginning of September, with a real chance of England success that can be used to develop interest in the game (its always good to be associated with a sport that England can win at!).

So try to have a word with your local PE teachers now - they'll probably be pretty supportive. If you have girls from your club at a particular school obviously that will give you a great base to build on.

This really is a brilliant opportunity for us to use. A new national junior tournament building on a successful international team just at a time when all the other, higher profile, international teams are an embarrassment. What more could we want?

U14 "Emerging Schools" Competition rules:

Basically as standard RFUW U14 rugby, but with a few odd tweaks:

• Half pitch
  (You will recall that the club game is going full pitch)
• Full contact
• Uncontested scrums
  (No option for contested - unlike the club game next season)
• Tactical kicking is allowed
• Hand-offs permitted chest and below
• No conversions
• Re-starts after tries are scrums, put in to the conceding team
  (Possibly the most significant difference)
• Size 4 ball
• 12 a-side (at present 5 in the scrum but RFUW are looking to change this to 6)

Local newspapers highlight Hertfordshire award success

I guess I should mention that local newspapers covering most of north and central Herts (including the Comet, Advertiser, Crow, Herald and Times series) include a report on the county's success at the East awards "do" a few weeks back.

Thanks to Amanda for submitting the article which, for some reason the "usual channels" somehow neglected to do.

Can't think why.

The photo might be a clue though...

Summer rugby courses

Just a reminder that across the county this summer your local district councils will be organising summer events, and in many areas these will include rugby courses.

Always open to girls as well as boys, often at a bargin price, and invariably aimed at relative newcomers to the game these courses will be ideal for many up-and-coming U14s.

Typical of such an events, for example, is one being put on by North Herts District Council at Hitchin RFC from 31st July to 4th August. At this course girls (and boys) aged between 8 and 13 will get five mornings of coaching for only £25.70 - a fraction of what you would normally pay at commercial Rugby Camps.

So have a look through the brochures that schools will be handing out about now - and if you are a bit concerned about the course being flooded by boys, get together with a few friends and teammates and go as a group. What else had you got planned?

England U19 trials

England U19 trials will be held on Saturday 7th October at somewhere in the Midlands (venue still to be confirmed - watch this space) .

Any girls aged between 16 and 18 on 1st September 2006 can attend - you do not have to have previously attended summer camps etc. - but RFUW request that you should be of "regional standard". If in doubt ask you club coach.

Information - including trial forms - will appear on the RFUW's website next month and have to be returned to RFW by 18th September.

Support England... Promote the Women's game... (and annoy the blokes a bit!)

The RFUW are offering some rather neat car stickers with the slogan "Six Nations Grand Slam Winners 2006" on them and (in slightly smaller type) "Next challenge: Women's World Cup Edmonton".

There is also an accompanying poster with similar wording and action shots from the Six Nations campaign. Just to emphasise the point that at least one England rugby team is capable of winning things....

Both are - by the looks of it - free (the RFUW's latest mailing doesn't actually say one way or the other).

So drop RFUW a line and order now. The stickers are sticky on the back so can be used not just on cars, but also bags, exercise books, lockers, bedroom doors, and a multitude of other similar places. And the poster would look great on your club or school noticeboard!

In addition the "Girl Power" posters have been updated with a new (and rather better) text - again copies available from RFUW in both A3 and A5 sizes.

Beckenham Festival to include U14 competition

Exciting news just received about the Beckenham Festival - for the first time there will be a U14 competition as well as the usual U17 event!

As in previous years it is emphasised that this will be a "development" event, so slightly simplified rules (details expected later).

Beckenham RFC are sendig invitations to clubs in the region this week (all clubs who took part in Herts 7s are likely to be contacted). With two age groups now taking part entries are likely to be taken very quickly, so don't miss out!

Coaching courses: 2006/7

The following are the dates of RFU coaching courses in Hertfordshire next season. All courses wil be held at the University of Herts de Haviland Campus in Hatfield. For more information or to make a booking please contact:

Helen Bridgeman (RFU Regional Administrator London North), East Midlands Rugby Union, The Rugby House, Wellingborough School, Irthlingborough Road, Wellingborough, NN8 2BX Tel No. 01933 222218, Email : admin@emru.co.uk

Level One (£88.13):

• 3rd & 17th September 2006 (closing date: 3rd August 2006)
• 8th & 22nd October 2006 (closing date: 8th September 2006)
• 4th & 18th November 2006 (closing date: 4th October 2006)
• 3rd & 17th December 2006 (closing date: 3rd November 2006)
• 14th & 21st January 2007 (closing date: 14th December 2006)
• 11th & 25th February 2007 (closing date: 11th January 2007)
• 4th & 18th March 2007 (closing date: 4th February 2007)
• 1st & 15th April 2007 (closing date: 1st March 2007)
• 6th & 27th May 2007 (closing date: 13th April 2007)
• 10th & 24th June 2007 (closing date: 10th May 2007

Level Two (£126.25)

• Part One – 9th/10th September 2006
  Part Two – 9th/10th December 2006
  (closing date: 9th August 2006)
  
• Part One – 27th/28th January 2007
  Part Two – 2nd/3rd June 2007
  (Closing date: 18th December 2006)

Level Three

• Please contact Helen on 01933 222218 for information

County trials and training venues: amended venues

The venues for the four county dates (see earlier post on "key dates") have now been confirmed as follows:

• 17th September - Stevenage RFC
• 15th October - St Christopher School (Barrington Road, Letchworth SG6 3JZ).
• 12th November - Letchworth RFC

All from c12.30 to 3.30.

This will be followed on 3rd December by an inter-county festival at Westcliff RFC in Essex, which will include not only Hertfordshire, Essex, and Eastern Counties but it is also hoped at least three or four other counties as well.

First Aid Course

Amanda has passed on information about a First Aid course being organised by Herts Sports Partnership for Appointed Persons on Sunday 10th September 2006 (9.30am to 4.30pm) at the Herts Sports Village in Hatfield.

She says its is an excellent course run by Tony Bennison, who is a rugby coach and so knows just what sort of injuries we might be dealing with, and urges clubs to send at least one person on this course. Note however that it is open to all sports and places will be booked on a first come first served basis, so book NOW to avoid disappointment.

Click here for further details and a booking form, and contact g.a.keen@herts.ac.uk if you need more information.

Alternatively you can book a course at your own club. If you are interested please contact Tony direct - Tony.Bennison@abcfirstaid.co.uk.

Girls' rugby summer camp

News of this rugby "camp" has taken a while to filter through, but is worth having a look at because it seems to be that great rarity - a camp specifically for girls!

It will be a two day event on 24th and 25th August at Old Grammarians RFC in Winchmore Hill, North London - so its very accessible, being only just over the border into Middlesex (see here for a map).

The camp is run by Crusaders Rugby and costs a very reasonable £50, with the possibility of a further 15% discount for early booking (ie. four weeks ahead). The girls course would seem to be a late addition to their schedule as it does not appear on the website so contact david@crusadersrugby.co.uk for more information.

Beckenham festival date confirmed

The date of the Beckenham U17 festival has been conformed as 8th October. Invitations go out shortly.

Last season only on Herts team took part - which is a pity as its an good festival which is aimed specifically at new U17 players. It also attracts entries from across the South East, giving you a chance to meet clubs you'd never normally play outside of National Sevens.

More information will appear here as it becomes known.

Comments welcome!

A minor design glitch has now been sorted out which means that you can now leave comments about any articles on this blog.

Just click on the "comments" link below, and away you go!

Don't feel shy - let's make this a two way process!!

Hertfordshire hat-trick! [UPDATE]

Hertfordshire Junior Rugby were winners of three of awards at last night's East Region Dinner & Awards evening.

Hopefully we'll have some pictures of the winners with their awards later. In the meanwhile we join the festivities a little later in the evening...

The lack winners' photos is partly (well, entirely) due to my being one of them (Volunteer of the Year) and therefore being unable to take pictures that I was in.

Other awards went to Amanda Bate (Outstanding Achievement) , and the Hertfordshire county team (especially the U17 A team) who deservedly won the first County Team of the Year award.

In addition a fourth award went to Hertfordshire when OA Saints were awarded Club of the Year mainly for their performances in their first year of Women's Premiership rugby.

Other award winners that I can remember were:

• U17 Player of the Year: Kat Emerson (Basildon)
• U14 Player of the Year: Emily Scott (Basildon)
• Coach/Manager of the Year: Mrs Chris Emerson (Basildon)
• I think that Holly Le Grave (Basildon) won Senior Player of the Year
• Ironically I can't actually recall the winner of Unsung Hero. I don't think they were from Basildon though...

(Seriously - these awards can only go to people who are nominated. So next year make sure you put your best players and supporters forward. Don't expect anyone outside your club to do it!)

Update: First few photos already up on Rugby Matters website! More to come yet I suspect...

Your region needs YOU!!

Applications are being invited for all positions in the East Regional structure.

Its not that anyone is leaving as such, but with the expansion of the game in the East new volunteers are needed to help with the programme.

Among the posts included on the application form are U14, U17 and Senior coaches, team and programme managers.

Pretty much anyone who puts their hand up is likely to be accepted in some capacity, so now if your chance to shape the future direction of England's strongest and most successful region!

Further information from Claire Sanderson, RFUW WRDM Midlands, c/o Hockey Pavilion, Loughborough University, Loughborough, Leicestershire, LE11 3TU (email clairesanderson@rfu.com).

We are not alone

A second county has launched a "blog" - and its another East county as well - thus confirming our place as the most switched on region off the field, as well as the best on it.

So a big welcome to the Eastern Counties Girls' Rugby blog!

Obviously a bit thin atthe moment, what with our having some weeks' start, and much of the content seems terribly familiar, but its good to see.

But come on Essex - what's keeping you?

The conference season

The only activity on the field may be the wind blowig through the lengthening grass, but off the field there is still a lot going on.

Saturday 1st July sees the first "divisional" conference for our area (ie. East + East Midlands), which takes place at Coventry RUFC. This replaces the National Conference at the request of many clubs who can sometimes find that issues in other regions aren’t always relevant to their own development.

The agenda includes team building, club development planning, recruitment of volunteers, and working with the meda . Its a packed day that promises to be both informative and practical, and also contains a refreshing and enlightening presentation from one of the RFU’s Volunteer representatives – Alex Murphy. This will focus on the importance of volunteers and how best to recruit, retain and reward even with seemingly nothing to offer!

The section of the day devoted to Club Development Plans should be useful when planning for the future. The opportunity will be provided to share best practice with other clubs and make a start on your own. Finally, with the World Cup less than four months away, we hope to have an inspirational insight into the preparation and goals of the World Cup Squad.

To attend please email Colleen Webb on stormstorm@hotmail.com

Twenty Herts girls make a little piece of history

The names of the twenty players who will be the first girls to ever take part in Herts RFU's "Athlete Support Programme" have been announced:

Nikki Alcock (Letchworth), Emma Burgess (Hertford), Megan Childs (Saracens), Francis Dawson (Welwyn), Rebecca Dawson (Welwyn), Amanda Finch (Saracens), Milly Fuggles (Hertford), Hannah Gallagher (Welwyn), Hayley Guilder (Letchworth), Carla Kelly (Letchworth), Harriet Lilley (Welwyn), Hannah Marques (Welwyn), Alex Robertson (Saracens), Jess Robinson (Letchworth), Claire Shutler (Saracens), Gerry Thomas (Fullerians), Natalie Threlfall (Letchworth), Emily Vivian (Letchworth), Melissa Waite (Hitchin), Megan Williams (Welwyn)

Up until now the programme - run mainly during the summer at the University of Hertfordshire - has been restricted to the top U15 boys in the county, but this year half of the places have been allocated to girls, and the county coaches have selected the leading girls aged U16 or younger.

The twenty will now take part in a series of fitness and conditioning evenings in June and July lead by the University's Sports and Social Science Officer, Fiona Castree. They and their parents will also receive advice on nutrition and athletic development throughout the rest of the year.