Game Changers: Carrick RFC Empowers Women and Girls Through Rugby

Carrick Rugby Football Club runs teams from youth levels to adult squads, providing a welcoming environment for players of all ages from as young as five. 

The Scottish Building Society is already active in charitable activities and last year, to make their 175th anniversary,  they established the Scottish Building Society Foundation to support local charities and community groups in the important work they undertake.  The Scottish Building Society Foundation aims to invest in the long-term future of communities in Scotland, with grant monies acting as a gateway to a sustainable future for vulnerable individuals and communities alike.

In 2023, The Scottish Building Society Foundation awarded the group a grant to support the development of women’s and girls' rugby within the club. The funding enabled them to hire a part-time Female Development Officer to specifically work with girls and young women, many of whom face social exclusion or other barriers to participation. This role focuses on creating female-friendly programmes, providing pastoral support, and building an inclusive environment where women and girls can engage in sport, develop confidence, and feel supported within the club.

For many in the community, Carrick RFC serves as an inclusive space where young people, families, and supporters are welcome to participate both on and off the field. Since implementing this project, the club has witnessed a remarkable rise in female participation, with 85 individuals benefiting directly. 

Club Development Officer Daryl Conway says

“This project has enabled us to offer support that goes far beyond what we imagined.  Without this funding, the scale of our female programmes wouldn’t be possible.”

The addition of dedicated female coaching staff has been pivotal in fostering a safe and supportive environment for women players. With Joanne Henry and Daryl Conway combining their expertise in coaching and project management, Carrick RFC was able to field its first female adult team, marking a historic milestone as they competed in the Aspiring League for the first time. 

Joanne Henry, part of the Women and Girls Coaching Team, reflects

“It was incredible to see our ladies’ team play their debut fixture. The touchline was full of supporters, and the sense of solidarity was unforgettable.” This presence of female staff has made it possible for players to address issues specific to women’s rugby in a secure setting, enhancing their sense of belonging and value within the club.

The benefits of this project have reached beyond the rugby pitch, extending into the broader Carrick community. Initiatives such as the "Little White Bag" programme, offering free sanitary products, and social events like cold-water swim socials and "Chatty Space" events have created new avenues for connection and engagement. 

Daryl Conway, Club Development Officer, says

Carrick RFC aims to sustain and expand these efforts by continuing to source additional funding and increasing club revenue through community events. The club is optimistic about the future of female rugby and anticipates that this foundational project will secure its place as a centre for community engagement and development.

“This project has not only shaped our women’s programme but also brought a renewed sense of pride and commitment among all our members,” 

This collaboration between Carrick RFC and the Scottish Building Society illustrates the far-reaching impact of targeted support in sports. By building a nurturing environment for women and young people in rugby, the club has strengthened its role as a cornerstone of the Carrick community.