A historic day as women's rugby league gets underway in Oldham

History was made this weekend when training for Roughyeds' first ever women’s rugby league team took place at Melrose playing fields in Chadderton, organised by Oldham Rugby League Community Trust.

There were 15 girls, with ages ranging from 16 to 38, who took part in the session run by head coach Ste Fitzmartin, alongside the club’s strength and conditioning coach Kirstie Williamson - who certainly put them through their paces.

The girls had a mixture of backgrounds with some having played rugby union, as well as some with previous experience in rugby league.

For others, it was the first time they had ever picked up a rugby ball, but there was skill on show from all, as well as potential.

Head coach Fitzmartin was pleasantly surprised at the quality that was on show in the first session.

“I’m shocked, to be honest, at how high the standard was. There was 100% effort from the girls on show today,” he said.

“One was even sick afterwards - that’s how much effort she put in.

“After what I saw today, I’ll be looking to get a game on within six weeks, definitely.

"The standard of rugby and the knowledge is there, but now we need to build their fitness up and get a team spirit.

“These girls could potentially be the first try scorer or be the person to make the first tackle of this club.

"There’s a whole history to be made that they are going to be a part of.”

Thirty-eight-year-old Hannah Bates - whose uncle is Joe Warburton, secretary of the Oldham Past Players’ Association - took part in the session.

She played for Rochdale Ravens and was selected for the England under-21’s and Great Britain teams, but left the sport after becoming pregnant.

It was her first game in 15 years, but she is excited to finally be able to play for Oldham.

“It’s a fantastic opportunity, there’s never been a women’s rugby league team in Oldham before - I had to go to Rochdale when I was younger, so I’m glad I can now play for my hometown,” she said.

“Everybody who trained today was fantastic, even the girls that haven’t played before.

"We all put our hearts and souls in today.

“I think we were all ready for dying after that session, but we all really enjoyed it.”

Training takes place every Saturday, 10am-12pm, and all girls aged 16 and over are invited to the sessions, regardless of ability - email: oldhamwomenrl@outlook.com to get involved.

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