Scottish Rugby has launched a new ‘Coach Support Programme’ in partnership with SP Energy Networks to support 10 girls’ rugby coaching groups across the country.

The programme aims to strengthen coaching skills and support young female players towards performance improvements and will run initially between October and December 2021.

Each club will work with an appointed Coach Development Officer from Scottish Rugby, who will provide club coaches with bespoke support including 1-to-1 meetings, development plans, match and training observations and reviews.

The 10 coaching groups selected for the programme are: Angus Girls, Kelpies Rugby, Garioch RFC, Orkney RFC, Edinburgh Harlequins, Kelso RFC, Biggar RFC, Whitecraigs RFC, Annan RFC and Greenock Wanderers.

The programme kicked off on Monday 3 October with an online session for clubs to meet their Coach Development Officer and learn more about the programme, its details and objectives.

Neil Graham, Head of Training & Education at Scottish Rugby said: “We are delighted to have SP Energy Networks supporting the delivery of the programme. Coaches are a crucial component in nurturing environments which allow players to develop and hone their skills.

“By engaging in the programme our 10 selected coaching groups can expect to gain a deeper understanding of their coaching practice, identify areas of strength and development, and a greater breadth of knowledge to help them deal with day-to-day coaching situations.

“It’s our hope that the programme will create longer-term benefits for girls in the game, to keep them engaged with the sport and support their individual overall development as they progress towards senior rugby.”

Frank Mitchell, CEO of SP Energy Networks said: “SP Energy Networks is passionate about inspiring and supporting women and girls both on the rugby pitch, and in the workplace. Our partnership with the Scotland women’s team is evidence of that commitment. Our aim has always been to support and drive forward grassroots rugby, placing ourselves closer to the communities we serve, whilst also striving to raise awareness of engineering as a career choice – especially for women and girls.

“Together we have developed this new programme to break barriers and empower girls’ rugby across Scotland. It is a deepening of our support of women’s rugby in Scotland, to ensure that potential international stars of the future are working with best-in-class coaches.

“The work these coaches have already done, and will continue to do, is instrumental in inspiring the next generation and we are proud to support them through this and beyond.”