With a rising interest in the women’s game, the tour provided opportunities for school children, club members and the wider community to see the trophy and be inspired by their heroes.
The tour kicked off in Belfast on Monday with visits to six schools in addition to the official launch the Belfast Metropolitan College Rugby Academy at the Millfield campus.
Ireland star Stacey-lea Kennedy brought the trophy to her hometown of Derry-Londonderry on Tuesday, with Donegal native Nora Stapleton continuing the journey in her home county on Wednesday. Ashleigh Baxter will took over the reins by visiting a number of schools and clubs in Fermanagh and South Tyrone on Thursday, before making her way to Dungannon, Armagh and Cavan on Friday.
The tour, organised by Ulster Rugby’s two dedicated Female Rugby Officers, Zoe Templeton and Neal Johnston, enabled the Ireland Women to talk about their progression to the international rugby scene. They highlighted the health and social benefits of the sport and encouraged school children to give it a try.
This project has been made possible due to the generous support of the NI Executive and the Department of Culture, Arts and Leisure through the ‘Promoting Equality, Tackling Poverty and Social Exclusion through Sport Programme’.
The children at Saints & Scholars Primary School in Armagh welcome Ireland Grand Slam star Ashleigh Baxter during the 6 Nations Trophy Tour.
If you want to know more about girls rugby, please contact Ulster Branch Female Rugby Officers Zoe Templeton (Zoe.Templeton@ulsterrugby.com) and Neal Johnston (Neal.Johnston@ulsterrugby.com).