A Cumbrian rugby club is encouraging people to try out the sport as it goes from strength to strength.
Creighton RUFC, based on Sycamore Lane in Carlisle, has recently gained a new coach and one of their players is representing the county for the first time in over 50 years.
Alex Langley, men’s senior coach said: “There’s a place for everyone in rugby. Not only is it great exercise but many of the lads have their own reasons for coming down, whether it’s for their mental health, the socialising and meeting new people or the rugby itself.
“It doesn’t matter whether you’ve got loads of experience or have never played before, we are a team and anyone who comes down will become part of that team too.”
Pre-season training begins on Wednesday July 2 at 7pm.
Harvey Foster, a Creighton RUFC player, said: “I joined the team just over a year ago with very little rugby experience. I wasn’t feeling my best confidence wise, but since joining, it’s been a total game changer.
“The lads are a great bunch. Supportive and always up for a laugh. Anyone is welcome, no matter your skill level, there is a place for everyone.
“Being part of the team has boosted my skills, strength, confidence, and happiness. It’s more than just rugby, it’s a solid community that’s had a massive impact on me.
“If you’re thinking about joining, I say go for it. You won’t regret it.”
Player Alex Taylor added: “I’ve played rugby for over 20 years now. Ten years ago I had fallen out of love with it for a short period of time but during that time my mental health began to spiral a bit, I put some weight on, and I was drinking too much.
“That’s when one of the Creighton old boys said, ‘get yourself back down to rugby, have a run about and have a laugh’.
“I’ve now been there 10 years, and I have played with lots of different lads over the years. I am now one of the lads who’s been there for the longest, and I couldn’t think of a better place to play rugby.
“Rugby is about the teamwork, no matter where you are on the pitch, you can look across and see someone who has your back.”
Keanan Foster, team captain, said: “There has been a lot of growth in the team recently, especially last season. I have seen a lot of personal and player development as well as the team really pulling together on and off the pitch.
“New players are welcome to join the session or even head down to watch if they’re still unsure. We look forward to seeing you there.”
