The majority of players are new to rugby and are thriving as they learn the sport in a welcoming and supportive environment. Burley Women’s Head Coach, Jamie Manson, said: “It's been a really rewarding experience coaching the women's sessions. We've had people returning week after week and it's great to see how much they throw themselves into learning rugby."

We chatted to Nina, one of our first-time players, to learn more about her experiences so far at Burley.

How have you found the introduction to rugby at Burley?

I’ve loved it, it’s been really enjoyable to try something new. In fact, I'm loving it so much that I’ve brought loads of friends with me to join! It’s been really easy to pick up which is great as starting a new sport with new people can be difficult, but we are all a similar level which is great.

What’s been your favourite thing about starting rugby?

Meeting the girls has been the best part as everyone is really lovely. I’ve also enjoyed learning to play, it’s actually really fun and whenever I speak to the others who play they agree. It’s a great runaround, and a fantastic way to incorporate cardio while building a social life. It can be difficult to pick up a new hobby in your mid-20s but that’s exactly what we’ve all done and I’m really pleased with how it’s going!

A year ago, could you have predicted that you’d be playing rugby?

Absolutely not! I’d have been really daunted by the idea of falling over and tackling as it’s not something that comes naturally to me. People talk about rugby as a men’s sport but, having tried it, it’s great to give it our own girls’ twist. There’s a perception that rugby is for men with cauliflower ears, not women with helix piercings, but it’s been great to meet so many amazing girls and pick up new skills!

Has anything surprised you about rugby?

I play other team sports and my boyfriend plays for the men’s team so I already knew that Burley is a really welcoming, inclusive club. However, I’ve been pleasantly surprised by Jamie, the coach. You think of rugby coaches as shouting like it’s the army, but Jamie is so patient and encouraging. I remember him saying “if you don’t understand something it’s because I haven’t explained it well enough”.

What would you say to any women considering coming to Burley?

Do it! What have you got to lose? I wish I’d joined when I first moved to Leeds as it’s been great to meet so many amazing friends and learn new skills. It’s empowering to be part of a group of women supporting each other as we learn a new sport and push boundaries.

If you are interested in trying women’s rugby, contact us on Instagram or Facebook or attend a training session every Tuesday evening at Leeds Rugby Academy, Clarence Fields, Bridge Road, Kirkstall, Leeds, LS5 3BW.