Holderness Vikings are preparing to establish a brand-new Under 9s girls rugby league team after a hugely successful block of RugBees sessions delivered in partnership with Hull FC Community Foundation.

What began with just two girls already training at the club has quickly grown into something much bigger, with a further 8 girls becoming involved through weekly RugBees sessions and increased awareness of opportunities available at Holderness Vikings.

The growth in participation has created an exciting pathway for young girls to get involved in rugby league, with the club now looking to establish an Under 9s girls’ team to provide regular playing opportunities and continue building momentum.

RugBees, the RFL’s programme designed to introduce young girls to rugby league through fun, engaging and inclusive activities, has played a key role in supporting the club’s ambitions to grow the female game at grassroots level.

Through the Foundation’s delivery of the project, girls have been able to develop fundamental movement skills, build confidence, make new friends and experience the enjoyment of rugby league in a welcoming environment.

The increase in numbers reflects the growing appetite for girls’ rugby league across the local community and highlights the positive impact collaborative work between community clubs and Hull FC Community Foundation can have in creating new opportunities for young people.

Bethany Staveley-Haynes, who has been supporting the development of the sessions, praised the enthusiasm shown by the participants and the progress made over recent weeks.

“It’s been fantastic to see how quickly the sessions have grown and the excitement that the girls bring every week. What started as a handful of players has developed into a really strong group who are eager to learn, develop their skills and be part of a team.

“The RugBees sessions have created a brilliant environment where the girls can have fun, build confidence and make new friends, while also getting their first experiences of rugby league.

“To now be in a position where Holderness Vikings are looking to establish an Under 9s girls’ team is incredibly exciting. It’s a testament to the commitment of the club, the families and, most importantly, the girls themselves. We’re looking forward to seeing and supporting the team continue to grow and develop over the coming months.”

With strong foundations now in place, Holderness Vikings will be hoping their newest recruits are the first of many girls to pull on the club’s colours in the years ahead.