The start!
We were nervous about entering a league; would we get players, could we fulfil all the fixtures, would the club back us? These questions weighed heavily on our minds as we embarked on this new journey. Nonetheless, determination fuelled our efforts, and we took each challenge one step at a time.
Fortunately, our worries were soon dispelled by the passion and commitment of our team. The core of players were last year's U18s, along with the dedicated ladies who had kept things going. Andy Gelder and Chris Mosley assisted me in coaching and strategy, bringing their wealth of experience to every training session and match. Amanda Wilson took a big leap to become the Women's Director of Rugby, articulating our vision and liaising with the club to secure support. Manager Ian Patterson oversaw all administrative aspects, ensuring smooth operations and allowing the team to focus solely on their performance on the field.
Pre-season began with the team just focusing on fun, teamwork, and basic rugby skills. The coaches cleverly disguised fitness-based activities as enjoyable exercises, ensuring that every session was filled with laughter and camaraderie. Anyone who watched or heard about our pre-season preparations would have noticed the emphasis on having fun! This approach not only built a strong sense of unity among the players but also laid a solid foundation for the rigorous season ahead.

News travelled and players returned

Former players heard about the preseason efforts and started returning to the club to give rugby another try. Their return not only bolstered our numbers but also infused the team with a renewed sense of purpose and a rich tapestry of experience. Veteran players shared their wisdom and insights, fostering an environment where learning and growth were paramount.
We now needed a kit, equipment, and a playing strip. With the season fast approaching, an appeal for sponsors went out. Remarkably, all shirt sponsors were secured in about 30 minutes, with Kingdom Plumbing Services taking top billing (thanks for all your support, Kingy!). We also secured a dedicated shorts sponsor in WintWire.
For anyone not familiar with women's rugby, the correct fitting kit is essential and often gets overlooked. Therefore, being able to offer properly fitted shirts and shorts was a massive achievement. This not only ensured comfort and safety for the players but also boosted their confidence and pride as they took to the field wearing kits that truly represented the team's spirit and aspirations.

The season starts!

The efforts and enthusiasm during pre-season paid off as the Warriors took to the field with confidence and unity. Armed with their new kits and bolstered by returning players, the team was ready to face the challenges ahead.
Our first fixture was an away game at Selby, a match that started the season with a bang. It was a special moment for mother and daughter Vicki and Ella Greensmith, who played together on the pitch, celebrating the first league win of the season. The joy and pride felt by the team were palpable as they marked this significant victory.
However, the Warriors were soon brought back down to earth with their only loss of the season so far in an away game at Malton just a week later. This defeat served as a reminder of the tough road ahead, but it also strengthened the team's resolve to push forward and continue striving for excellence.
The period up to Christmas saw the Warriors have great training numbers on a Wednesday night on the main pitch, with 20-25 players regularly attending. This meant that on Wednesday nights, with all four girls' age groups training, there were regularly over 100 women and girls participating. This impressive turnout not only highlighted the growing interest and commitment to women's rugby within the club but also created an electrifying atmosphere that fuelled everyone's enthusiasm.
The sight of so many players honing their skills and pushing their limits together fostered a sense of camaraderie and shared purpose. It was a testament to the hard work and dedication of everyone involved in nurturing women's rugby at the club. The experienced players took younger and newer members under their wing, offering guidance and support, which in turn built a strong, cohesive unit ready to face any challenge.

As the season progressed, the Warriors continued to train with determination and passion, knowing that their efforts were laying the foundation for future success.
Before Christmas, the Warriors celebrated wins against Selby, York, Pocklington, Hemsworth, Hornsea, Doncaster's second team, and West Park Leeds’s second team. These victories were a testament to the team's relentless dedication and hard work. Each win brought the Warriors closer together, building a formidable and united front.
However, the last game before Christmas was tinged with sadness as it marked Robyn Patterson's final match for the Warriors. Robyn was heading to Australia for a year, where she would go on to thrive playing Rugby League. Her departure was a poignant moment for the team as she embodied the spirit of the Warriors. Robyn was known for her mentorship on the field, often guiding less experienced players and helping them grow. Her presence and leadership would be greatly missed, but her legacy of camaraderie and support would continue to inspire the team as they moved forward.

Post Christmas blues
After Christmas, the season proved to be frustrating, with numerous games being cancelled due to weather or the opposition not showing up. Despite these setbacks, the Warriors continued to work diligently on the training pitch, ensuring that when the games resumed, they would be more than ready to perform at their best.
The return of several players, including ex-Beasts who left higher leagues to rejoin the club where their rugby journeys began, was a testament to the environment and culture being built within the Warriors. This influx of experience and talent further strengthened the team and amplified their sense of camaraderie.

The Warriors’ perseverance paid off with crucial wins against Doncaster's second team, Selby, and a nail-biting top-of-the-table clash with Pocklington. These victories clinched the Warriors' promotion and secured their league title with two games left in the season. The collective effort and unwavering determination of the players were evident as they celebrated their remarkable achievement.

Have fun and enjoy the game
Our goal was never to win the league or gain promotion, it was to ensure we had 15 players for every game, something that would give us a bonus point if we did, and most importantly have fun! The Warriors embraced this philosophy wholeheartedly, understanding that the true essence of the sport lies in teamwork, enjoyment, and the shared experiences on the field.
As the season went on, the focus on participation and camaraderie proved to be a winning strategy. Every match was an opportunity to bond, grow, and celebrate the spirit of rugby. The laughter, encouragement, and collective effort were the driving forces behind the team's remarkable journey. Each player's commitment to showing up and giving their best, regardless of the stakes, created an environment where success was measured not just by victories but by the joy and togetherness experienced along the way.

Through the highs and lows, the Warriors remained united, exemplifying the core values of determination, resilience, and companionship. This approach ultimately led to their astonishing achievements, proving that when a team's primary goal is to foster a positive and inclusive atmosphere, the results can surpass even the loftiest expectations. The Warriors' story is a testament to the power of community and the undeniable magic that happens when people come together to support and uplift one another.
One particularly pleasing aspect has been the continuity and growth within the team. Impressively, six or seven of the players have been with Sandal since they were under 12s. This long-standing commitment and development have been instrumental in building the team's core strength and unity. Additionally, the support of the U18s coaches, who have encouraged younger players to "play up," has significantly bolstered the squad's depth. As a result, the team often fields squads of 22, with 16 or 17 of the players emerging from the Sandal girls' pathway. This seamless integration of younger talent has not only enhanced the team’s performance but also ensured a bright future for the club, as experienced players mentor and inspire the next generation of Warriors. The combined efforts from all levels of the club underline the cohesive and supportive environment that Sandal Rugby Club fosters.

What’s next?

Looking ahead, the Warriors have one home game left on Saturday, April 26th, and we would love for everyone to come and appreciate what Women's Rugby brings to Sandal as a club. The enthusiasm and dedication of the players are truly remarkable, and their performances showcase the strength and spirit of women's sports.
Additionally, we are always recruiting and will be looking to add players over the summer. This is a fantastic opportunity for anyone interested in joining a supportive and dynamic team that values both competition and camaraderie. The Warriors welcome players of all skill levels and backgrounds, fostering an inclusive environment where everyone can thrive.
We are also actively seeking sponsors for both off-field and on-field playing kits. Sponsorship is crucial for the continued growth and success of the team, providing essential resources that enhance the players' experience and performance. With the Women's Rugby World Cup being held in England this year, there has never been a better time to invest in women's rugby. The visibility and excitement surrounding the tournament offer an excellent platform for sponsors to engage with a passionate and growing audience.

The Warriors are more than just a rugby team; they represent the heart and soul of Sandal Rugby Club. Their journey is a testament to the power of community, dedication, and the joy of the game. We invite everyone to join us in celebrating and supporting these incredible athletes as they continue to make history on and off the field.