Vigo Rugby Club are taking part in an RFU initiative this weekend which aims to boost further still the number of women and girls giving the sport a try.

Meopham-based Vigo have joined the list of clubs participating in the RFU’s Allianz Inner Warrior Camp, a programme which has helped introduce more than 25,000 women and girls to rugby union since 2017.

The scheme has the backing of England legend Emily Scarratt, and on Saturday Vigo are inviting over-18s who have never played the game to give it a go. Former players who fancy a return to the sport are also invited. The session is between 10am-12pm, followed by lunch.

The women’s game is already well established, with double world champions England reaching another World Cup Final last year and the 2025 tournament due to be held at home. Kent duo Shaunagh Brown and Rosie Galligan were part of the squad that finished runners-up last November.

Before that, though, there is the new WXV tournament later this month in New Zealand featuring the Kiwis, Australia, France, Canada, Wales and, of course, the Red Roses.

The women’s and girls’ game in England has enjoyed an average year-on-year increase in participation of 12% over the past 10 years thanks to initiatives such as the Allianz Inner Warrior Camps. With England hosting Rugby World Cup 2025, the aim is to reach 100k registered female players by 2027.

“These camps are designed to welcome women and girls into rugby, with no judgement and no pressure,” outside-centre Scarratt said. “It’s a great opportunity to try something different, meet new people and get active with like-minded people.

“The reactions you get from those camps and days are amazing. I haven’t seen anyone who hasn’t had a brilliant experience and didn’t want to go back. They’ve made friends and had a new appreciation for rugby.

“Take a friend, just go and give it a try; you’ll feel great for setting yourself a new challenge.

“The great thing about rugby is there are a number of ways to play. If you don’t want to play full-contact rugby, you can play non-contact or get involved in volunteering.”

Vigo Rugby Club are based at Harvel Road, Meopham, DA13 0UA. For more information on the Allianz Inner Warrior camp visit englandrugby.com/innerwarrior or pitchero.com/clubs/vigorfc