“A sense of belonging” – Swinton Lionesses host trials to encourage more young women to play rugby

Rugby League side Swinton Lionesses will host trials this week to to encourage more young women to get involved. 

The trials that will take place on Wednesday 13 November, will allow women to showcase their abilities and join the club.

Swinton Lionesses host trials at Salford City Roosters, with as many as possible being encouraged to part-take in the trials.

As one Lioness player Aimie Toher, spoke ahead of the try-outs, she said: “Team sport has a positive impact on mental health as it gives you a sense of belonging, it allows everyone to have a release from life stress and work.”

Aimie was able to find out that Rugby League is not just about exercise, but about the relationships you build with teammates and staff.

She continued: “It is such a positive space where everyone supports each other and that is what I was missing at previous clubs I played for.”

Aimie will be returning to the team next summer and is extremely happy to stay with the club.

She explained that th eboard member of Swinton Lions, Jason Harborow is creating an environment in where the women’s team is receiving the same amount of opportunities as the men’s.

She added: “He is very keen to give women everything that the men have and wants to push a one club approach, which I believe we definitely have.”

The Lioness trials are examples of the recent pathways that have developed for young girls who want to pursue the sport.

Acknowledging the work Swinton are doing and hoping in the future other clubs can follow in their footsteps, Aimie said: “The pathways that Swinton are providing for both the men’s and the women’s teams have shown to have great success.

“I look forward to seeing how this amazing club will grow together in the 2025 season.”

In recent years, the women’s game has been given opportunities such as live coverage on Sky and even England’s women’s rugby team being broadcast on the BBC.

These positive steps have seen the game move forward and allows for a bigger platform for women.

And if you are willing to participate in trials, they will take place on Wednesday 13 November between 7-8pm at Salford City Roosters.

More information and sign ups can be made here.