What was said in 1994 about the Sheffield Women
The Sheffield Eagles Women’s Rugby League Football Club first came together in the summer of 1989. The team was founded by teacher, Tracy Solomon, with assistance from Tim Butcher and the Sheffield Eagles. Initially they competed in touch~ and ~ pass friendly fixtures over the summer months. More players were then recruited and the team were later able to organise some friendly matches playing full tackle rugby.
In the following year they entered the Women’s Amateur Rugby League Association, Division 2, and played their first league matches. This 1990/91 season was a tough period for the team, who were still comparatively inexperienced and always struggling for numbers. Their final position at the season end was second from bottom.
During the summer of 1991 several new players were recruited, some of whom had previously played rugby union, and these added invaluable strength and experience to the team. The 1991/92 season brought some excellent results for the Women, notably winning away at Barrow 82-0. The team remained unbeaten in the league all season and became the 2nd Division Champions
They gained promotion to the 1st Division the following season where playing numbers were increased to 11 a side minimum. Unfortunately some key players moved away from the City and one or two bad injuries occurred and as a result the team were continuously short of players and were forced to concede some matches towards the end of the season.
The Women are back in the 2nd Division for the current season and are doing reasonably well so far, being in the second from top position at the moment, and on course for 7 promotion to Division 1 again.
Several players from the Sheffield squad has done particularly well including Sue Jackson and Tracy Hughes who have been selected to play for the Yorkshire side, and 2 of the younger members Nicki Leeson and Vicki Brookes selected to play for the Yorkshire Under 17's side.
Support has continuously been provided to the women’s team by the Sheffield Eagles, including provision of a curtain raiser at Don Valley Stadium every year, and assistance from various players in coaching.
The Women’s team have a Sponsor this season. Samson international, a sportswear company based in Leeds. who have kindly provided the new black and yellow kit.
The squad is made up of women of all ages varying from 15 yrs to over 40 yrs, from a whole variety of occupations and background. There is always a need for new players, particularly as some of the more experienced players are retiring at the end of this season.........................No experience is necessary, all you need is enthusiasm.
THE SAME STILL APPLIES TODAY !!