Portlaoise women prepared for top flight debut

Portlaoise Women’s Rugby is on the crest of a wave as the team prepare to take part in the top flight in Ireland this season, the All Ireland League Division 1.

They begin their campaign next weekend away to a very talented UL Bohs side with the team eagerly anticipating the challenge that lies ahead.

In just 16 years since the ladies section was originally established, it has gone from strength to strength with a number of titles along the way.

Starting in the Leinster Development League, Portlaoise won Leinster League titles in 2006 and 2009, the North Midlands Ann Fitzpatrick Cup in 2011/12 and again in 2012/13 and last year winning the All Ireland Division 2 title to gain promotion to Division One where they will compete against the best of in Ireland.

This would not have been possible without a talented group of dedicated players many of whom have represented their club at both senior and U-19 provincial level as well as Intervarsity Competitions.

Portlaoise also boasts of being the home club of Six Nations Grand Slam Winning Team and Irish Seven’s star Alison Miller who has played an integral role in the development and success of the ladies team.

There is also a thriving underage section catering for girls aged 9-17. This was established and developed by senior team members to ensure that women’s rugby would continue to strive within the club.

The club caters for players of all abilities from beginners to more experienced players and also participates in many of the summer sevens rugby tournaments as well as hosting its own summer tag rugby league. With local sponsors Bankz Hairdressing and Grellan Delaney’s Late Night Bar on board again for another season, there will be a few good old fashioned nights out are always included on the fixture list. For anyone interested in joining the club training continues Tuesday and Friday nights at 7.30pm in Portlaoise RFC, Togher. See facebook for more information.

Coaching and Training for Portlaoise Womens Youths Section has commenced and next training session will be on Friday, September 13 commencing at 6.30pm for both under 12’s Under 15’s and Under 18’s.

Any girl interested in playing rugby is most welcome to come along. No previous playing experience is necessary. For further Details Contact Youth Co-ordinator Harry Nicholls mobile 087-6179990

Portlaoise Youths Section

Registration, Training and Coaching for the coming season will continue on Saturday mornings at Portlaoise RFC Grounds. Togher,

Registration fees for the coming season will be the same as last year, €60 per child for first child and €15 for each additional child. Presently the Portlaoise RFC is currently recruiting players and ex players who wish to get involved in coaching and management of their youths squads. Should you be interested in assisting either as a coach, Manager or Referee, please contact Youth Co-ordinator Harry Nicholls 087-6179990 or email; rhnicholls@eircom.net for further information.