Women are making their mark in what were once considered men-only sports and it is not unusual to see female teams competing in football, cricket and rugby.

Beccles Ladies rugby team have been playing friendly matches for some time but next season the club is taking a gigantic step forward.

The team will be playing competitive league games at senior, under-18 and under-15 level and is putting out an appeal for more players to join.

The club is already establishing itself in the ladies game and although the team was playing friendly matches a number of their players have been attracting the eye of county and Eastern Counties level selectors.

It is hoped that the club will continue to grow and everyone is looking forward to the new season.

Senior captain Anna Peck said: “We are welcoming both experienced players and those new to rugby for all three teams.

“There is an excellent coaching system here at Beccles and we are very grateful to the coaching given by Owen Hadridge and Callum Roberts.”

Fixtures secretary and player Laura Nutt said: “This is a very friendly club and everyone is so helpful.

“I have really enjoyed being part of Beccles Rugby Club and I am sure everyone joining us will feel the same.”

Senior players range from 18 years old to 56 years old and their are also healthy squads in both the under-18 and under-15 teams.

“We have been to local schools and the support from the girls has been tremendous.

“Rugby has been getting a lot of publicity across the media and the ladies game has really taken off as a result,” said Laura.

Beccles club chairman Alan Cooper, said: “It is a huge step going from playing friendly games to playing in a league.

“However, as a club it is a step we are looking forward to making with some confidence.”

Mr Cooper said a number of improvements are planned for the club.

“With the support of the Rugby Football Union and Sport England grants we will have new state of the art floodlights operational for training nights and night games.

“The project has been six years in the making and will greatly enhance our training facilities and this the playing standars of the club.

“It is a great time for the rugby club and particularly the ladies team,” he said.

In the past 12 months the club’s youth section has increased from 42 to 78 members and the club has invested heavily in a summer coaching programme including three ladies coaches.

The majority of the team in the senior squad are new to Beccles this season or new to rugby altogether.

The club is extremely grateful for the sponsorship its gets from local estate agents Musker McIntyre.

Recent matches have given the ladies a significant boost with with and 36_0 win over Haringey and a 14_7 victory against Bury Foxes.

Between now and August the team members will be training and playing tag/touch rugby.

From September this year until April 2014 there will be full contact league rugby.

The ladies train on Wednesday nights from 7pm to 8.30pm at Beccles RUFC, Beef Meadow, Common Lane, Beccles. There is also fitness training from 7pm to 8pm on Thursdays.

Next season’s club opening day is planned for Sunday, August 31, when there will be pre-season games for all ladies age groups followed by a barbecue and music.

If you would like to join this progressive club or would like more information contact Laura Nutt on 07896 303155.