Empowering Girls Through Rugby: A Season of Triumph, Growth, and Friendship

By Matt Cooper, Danville Oaks Rugby | Photos provided by Jenny Kellogg

In the heart of our community, a group of young girls has been making their mark on the rugby pitch. The recently concluded season for the Danville Oaks Middle School Girls Rugby team has been nothing short of extraordinary. These talented athletes, aged between 11 and 14, have left an indelible mark, demonstrating incredible skill, resilience, and camaraderie. Most of the girls this season have never played rugby before. The perceived physicality of the sport can cause hesitation in most athletes (parents). With the support of the Danville Oaks, the girls created an environment of support, encouragement, and empowerment, enabling each player to thrive and reach new heights.

Through adversity and challenges that most “first seasons” bring, the girls ended their season strong. They won their last two matches with brilliant teamwork. Including a match against Motherlode Rugby from Shingle Springs, CA. Motherlode was the victor in the last three contests earlier in the season. The Danville Oaks girls really showcased how much they have grown throughout this season by securing the last win.

Beyond the scoreboard, this season has been transformative for each player involved. Rugby has served as a catalyst for personal growth, pushing these girls beyond their perceived limits and teaching them valuable life lessons. The sport has instilled in them a sense of resilience, self-confidence, and mental toughness that will undoubtedly benefit them both on and off the field. Through rugby, they have learned to face adversity head-on, embrace challenges, and emerge stronger, proving that they can achieve anything they set their minds to.

The girls this season have created lifelong friendships, and a strong foundation for girls/women’s rugby in our area. As they look to grow rugby in the upcoming seasons they welcome all “newbies” to join them on their journey, and in their community. Visit us at www. danvillerugby.com or on Instagram @danvillerugby.