Female coach is set to tackle rugby in schools

Published 7 Oct 2009 15:09 0 Comments

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YOUNGSTERS at local primary schools have scored a great result - they are getting the chance to play rugby with the help of Scotland's first female development officer.

Lindsey Smith, Scotland A and Hillhead Jordanhill prop, has just been appointed to get local youngsters into the sport - and Newmains Primary is one of several schools in Renfrew and Erskine who are taking part in a six-week block of sessions with the first lady.

The collective commitment by Scottish Rugby and Renfrewshire Council brings around £30,000 of investment annually into rugby in Renfrewshire - with Lindsey employed to recruit and retain rugby players in the area, create links with schools to maximise the opportunities to play rugby and increase participation at all levels of the club game.

Lindsey said: "I don't really think too much about the fact that I'm the first girl to do this job because it was just a job that I really wanted to do.

"Yes of course it means something to be the first girl to do it - but it means a lot more to me that I'm working to develop rugby in Renfrewshire.

"Currently, there isn't an awful lot of rugby in the area compared to other parts of Scotland so there's not a lot of young talent feeding into the clubs.

"My main job is to get into the schools, create an interest in rugby and then introduce the youngsters to the rugby clubs.

"Providing quality, fun opportunities for Scotland's young people to experience and play rugby is vital for the future of the game and for Scotland's young people and the fact that this area now has a dedicated development officer is a massive step forward."

Glen Tippett, regional development manager for Glasgow South, added: "Lindsey has the ability to help take this very proactive region forward and her appointment will continue to help bolster the growth of rugby from the grassroots up in an area not traditionally associated with the sport."

Lindsey is currently delivering rugby sessions in eight primary schools in Renfrew and Erskine - Kirklandneuk, Arkleston, Moorpark, Newmains, Barsail, Bargarron, Rashielea and St Anne's.

This article appeared in The Gazette 07 Oct 09

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