Boroughmuir “Banshees” are up and running

Boroughmuir Rugby have broken new ground by fielding a team of under-16 girls known as “The Banshees”.

The Meggetland club chose events on International Women’s Day to launch the new outfit drawn from schools across Edinburgh and the Lothians and although some guested from other clubs the majority of players were from Boroughmuir.

They played three games at an Evolution Series event hosted by Leith RFC.

‘Muir official Andrew Cochran said: “Having a girls’ team out in Boroughmuir’s famous blue and green strips is something the whole club is delighted to see – and look forward to seeing more often going forward.

“This season we have teamed up with our sister club Murrayfield Wanderers to enable our players to take part in full team games at an increased level. We have played in their strip until now with the intention of supporting both girls’ squads and driving player participation forward.

“We have seen player numbers increase at this age level over the past six months with continued investment into recruitment and player development.”

Another official, Gillian Nimmo, added: “Since August, when I became Director of Girls Rugby, our ambition has been to build up age group team rugby for girls at Boroughmuir.

“Girls rugby is a really positive destination we’ve taken into schools, and we work hard to ensure players are happy and valued. I’m so proud of each player’s commitment and dedication, and delighted that so many young girls are growing and developing skills, friendships and are having fun as Boroughmuir Banshees.”

The growth in the girls’ game was also a topic discussed with Daniel Johnson MSP on a recent visit to Meggetland.

Mr Johnson said: “I’m delighted to see the success Boroughmuir have had in growing the girls’ game, in particular by engaging in schools across south Edinburgh and beyond. I was impressed by the community outreach work that the club does, their focus on youth and their ambition for the future.”