Ellingham & Ringwood Rugby Football Club is celebrating a landmark year for its girls’ section, whose rapid growth and on-field success mirror the national surge in interest following the Women’s Rugby World Cup and the Red Roses’ inspiring victory. The club has seen record numbers of players selected for the England Rugby Player Development Gateway (PDG), as well as at County level, reflecting both the depth of talent within the programme and the strength of the club’s coaching pathway.
This season, Ellingham & Ringwood RFC proudly sent its largest-ever cohort to Hampshire and Dorset/Wiltshire county trials across the U18 and U16 age groups. Following an exceptionally competitive selection process, three E&R players were chosen for their U18 County, with a further eleven selected for the England Rugby U16 PDG — a remarkable achievement that sets a new benchmark for the club.
At grassroots level, the girls’ section continues to thrive with impressive squad numbers and strong performances throughout the season. Both the U16 and U14 squads now boast more than 25 registered players each, while the U12s continue to expand as increasing numbers of young girls take up the sport. All squads have enjoyed highly competitive fixtures so far, demonstrating the momentum and enthusiasm surrounding the programme.
The club is also delighted to announce new sponsorship for the girls’ section from SG Survey Independent Marine Surveyors & Consultants, who have generously supplied brand-new match shirts along with pre- and post-match team apparel. Their support represents a significant investment in the continued development of female rugby within the community.
Steven Hicks, Co-Chair of the Girls Division, said:
“The progress we’ve seen this year is nothing short of extraordinary. Our players, coaches, and volunteers have worked incredibly hard to build a supportive, ambitious environment that allows girls to develop both on and off the pitch. Seeing so many of our players recognised at PDG level is a testament to the effort and passion across the entire section. We’re excited for what comes next.”
Ellingham & Ringwood RFC remains committed to fostering the next generation of female rugby players and welcomes new members across all age groups.

Pictured

Under 18 Hampshire Squad 25/26
• Beattie M-B
• Darcy H
Under 18 Dorset & Wilts Squad
• Lula R

Under 16 Player Development Gateway (PDG) - Hampshire Squad 25/26
• Joanna M
• Caitlin M
• Lillie P
• Clodagh G
• Maisie B
• Bethan H
• Harriet B

Under 16 Player Development Gateway (PDG) - Dorset & Wilts Squad
• Emily R
• Kiri M
• Ava D
• Florence v d F