Society Spotlight - My experience with NUWRFC and why I think you should join...

At the start of last semester, I thought what better way to start second year than to join a new society. So, after the success of the Women’s Rugby World Cup and the sport constantly being played in my family home throughout my childhood, women’s rugby was calling my name; and that was how I landed becoming a member of NUWRFC.

To say I was nervous was an understatement, having never played of full contact rugby in my life before. However, unlike many of the other sport clubs on campus, they will train anyone, even if you’re at the rock bottom and have never touched a rugby ball in your life. I truly had no reason to be nervous and have not looked back since the first taster session. Monday and Friday evenings at Cochrane Park have now become part of my weekly schedule, and Wednesday matches are quickly becoming the best days of the week; joining has undoubtedly given me experiences I would have otherwise not had.

I think the thing that stuck out to me the most about the society was the welcoming atmosphere. Having explored other sports options at the university, none of them were as open and friendly as rugby, and it felt extremely easy to slot in the club amongst the other freshers and older players. The club atmosphere is something truly special, and makes you feel like you are part of something really big and important. Not only representing the university but also the power and promotion of women’s sport is one of the most empowering things I’ve been a part of.

In the first few weeks, we had already had our professional headshots taken for us, and the opportunity to join forces with a local rugby club for a pre-season match. This only continued when the BUCS campaign went underway with the opportunity to travel across the country to play against other universities every week, alongside partaking in a large sports events across Newcastle. It is truly unlike any other opportunity university can provide! Friends, cheering you on along the side lines, and the chance to run out on the pitch, proud to be a Newcastle student, has become a frequent sight, that I now couldn’t imagine my life without. Away buses and changing room atmosphere, alongside a match day crowd are the best, whether the outcome is a win or a loss; and being part of a team is one of the best feelings - having a whole group of people by your side no matter what.

Now is no better time to take my advice and come down and give it a go. With the six Nations having just kicked off, the women’s campaign just ahead, and the Men’s World Cup at the end of this year, rugby is thriving on and off the pitch. So, ditch just watching it with a pint in the pub and actually get playing too – I promise the tackles don’t hurt as bad you think!