Ulster Rugby vs Munster

FEMALE RUGBY ATHLETE PERFORMANCE PROGRAMME

In the Cardiff match programme we featured an article on the Female Rugby Athlete Performance Programme which was, at that time, still in its infancy.

FEMALE RUGBY UPDATE

University on 3rd January. On the day, players will take part in a battery of fitness tests to benchmark themselves against current Ireland International standards. They will also participate in mental and lifestyle skills workshops delivered by the Sports Institute of Northern Ireland, before an on-field training session. Since the commencement of the programme, there have already been significant successes at international level. Queen’s University’s Claire McLaughlin was included on the squad for Ireland’s recent senior international friendly against England. Enniskillen’s Kathryn Dane has also recently been included in the Ireland senior training squad. There are a number of acknowledgements that must be made to various partners who have enabled this programme to become a reality: » » The Ulster Rugby Supporters Club for their financial contribution. » » Sports Institute Northern Ireland for their mental skills, lifestyle and nutrition support. » » Queen’s University Belfast, Dungannon RFC, Dromore RFC, Malone RFC and Ballymena Academy for access to their facilities. » » The various coaches for their expertise and input. » » The players for their enthusiasm for, and commitment to, the programme.

In line with the aims of the IRFU (Ulster Branch) Women’s Rugby Strategy regarding provincial performance and international representation, the programme identifies, and provides assistance for, talented players who have the potential to play at the highest level in the female game. In collaboration with the Irish Senior, Ulster Senior and Ulster U18 Girls’ coaching staff, 30 players were invited to apply for a place on the programme. Twenty three players, both Senior and U18 were successful and commenced their additional training provision in early November. The players are provided with assistance in the following areas to enable them maximise their potential: » » On field technical and tactical support » » Strength and Conditioning and rehabilitation support » » Mental skills and lifestyle support The programme is delivered at various centres across the Province, with specialist coaches delivering the various elements of content. Ulster Rugby’s Director of Rugby, Les Kiss (pictured below right) demonstrated his support for the programme and his commitment to developing rugby throughout all areas of the provincial game by assisting with the delivery of a recent on-field skills session. The players will enjoy a well-earned break over Christmas before a half-day camp at Ulster

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