Shelford Rugby Club announce relaunch of successful Project 11 programme

Following the success of its launch 12 months ago, Shelford Rugby Club have announced the return of Project 11.

The initiative was born in the summer of 2024 to introduce girls aged nine to 11 (school years 5 and 6) to rugby in a supportive, girls-only environment every Wednesday evening (6-7pm).

Twenty-five girls took part in the free sessions, with 15 of those going on to join Shelford at various age groups.

Charlene Whalley, who puts on the sessions alongside running Shelford’s Under-12 and Under-14 Girls’ teams, said: “The reason both my husband Dave and I were keen to spearhead this project is because we see it as a meaningful way to give back to our community. We want to inspire young girls to build friendships, confidence, and strength in a safe, welcoming space where they can truly be themselves and have fun.”

A club statement added: “Charlene also manages a unique U12 and U14 girls team that includes six autistic players, among them her daughter, Paige. Under her leadership, the team has achieved remarkable success on and off the pitch, embodying the values of inclusion, resilience, and empowerment through sport.”

For more information, visit shelfordrugby.co.uk/project-11-is-back/.