Shrewsbury RUFC women go unbeaten, win promotion and launch a second team

Women's rugby is booming at Shrewsbury RUFC. Last season the senior women's side finished as undefeated NC3 league champions, earning promotion to NC2 for 2026/27. It was the first time in the club's history that the women's team had gone through a league season without a single loss.

The squad went through all ten league fixtures unbeaten with a hardworking, physical style and a strong 'play for each other' mentality, bringing through newcomers alongside players from the club's thriving girls' section. Highlights included a gritty away win against Newport Sirens in punishing conditions and a final-day thriller against Stafford IIs.

Shrewsbury players accounted for four of the top five try scorers in the division: Olivia Morris, Hollie Lock, Jordan Bixley and Menna Jones. Many of the team had been new to rugby just two seasons earlier. Pack leader Sarah Berry credited the success to the 100 per cent effort of players, coaches and supporters off the pitch.

Members of the women's team also keep the wider club running, serving as secretary and treasurer, coaching the minis and girls' sections, and managing social media.

Over the summer the club ran its six-week Inner Warrior programme, introducing women to the game alongside the first team's pre-season. It ended on Sunday 30 August with an intrasquad passing-out match at Sundorne Castle, where 39 women took to the pitch and 14 made their rugby debuts. The Reds edged the Blues 22-20, with the Blues missing a last-minute penalty that could have won it.

"To have 39 women play and to be able to field two teams is something we can all be incredibly proud of," said captain Jordan Bixley. Head coach Rob Edison, who led the programme with assistant coaches Simon Wait and Abbi Evans, added: "The fact there was only a two-point difference on the scoreboard proves just how quickly our new players have developed over the summer."

With support from club sponsor Mortgage Advice Bureau, the recruitment drive has allowed the club to establish a second women's team.

New players are always welcome, with or without experience. Training is on Mondays and Wednesdays from 7pm to 8.30pm at Shrewsbury RUFC, Uffington, Shrewsbury SY4 4RR. Find out more at shrewsburyrufc.rfu.club.