An Insight Report into our Girls Tackle Rugby Programme, commissioned by Sale Sharks Foundation and produced by academics from Manchester Metropolitan University’s Institute of Sport, has highlighted the positive impact that playing rugby has for girls aged 11 to 14.
Examining the effectiveness of our flagship programme, the study found that participation in both contact and non-contact forms of rugby union can improve girls’ wellbeing and all aspects of physical literacy, based on just 60 minutes of rugby per week.
The Girls Tackle Rugby programme inspires and empowers girls in Years 7 to 9 by making rugby union accessible, inclusive and enjoyable.
Delivered by elite female players from Sale Sharks Women, the programme provides high-quality coaching designed to build confidence, resilience and a lifelong connection to the sport.
The study found statistically significant improvements in all four components of physical literacy (psychological, social, cognitive and physical), as well as psychological wellbeing, following participation in a 12-week Girls Tackle Rugby programme.
No differences by age or ethnicity were identified, highlighting that all girls who participated in the research improved regardless of their background.
The involvement of elite female players as coaches was a standout factor in the programme’s success. They acted as role models who challenged stereotypes, inspired enjoyment, built confidence and raised aspirations among participants.
Equally important was the creation of girls-only spaces, which fostered a sense of comfort, belonging and freedom.
The same-sex space allowed girls to fully engage with the sport without fear of judgement.
88% of participants reported feeling more confident, and 97% said their perception of rugby had changed for the better following the programme.
Lead researcher Dr Ben Ives, Senior Lecturer in Sport Coaching and Faculty Lead for the Institute for Children’s Futures at Manchester Met, said:
“One of the most exciting findings from the study was the improvement in both physical literacy and psychological wellbeing with just 60 minutes of rugby a week.
“Physical literacy is about developing the confidence, motivation, and movement skills to be active for life, and seeing that grow with just one session a week is hugely encouraging, as we know that being physically active over the life course results in improved health. Working with Sale Sharks Foundation has been a fantastic partnership, and we’re excited to continue building on this research to further improve the lives of young girls.”
Speaking on the launch of the Girls Tackle Rugby Report, Jack Leech, Rugby Development Lead at Sale Sharks Foundation, said:
“This is a subject we’re extremely passionate about developing, so that we can truly understand the positive impact our sport has on young people.
“The study comes at the perfect time to be having this conversation, with the recent success of the Women’s Rugby World Cup helping to bring the sport into the mainstream and inspire a new generation of players.
“Through research and insights like these, we can shape our future strategy and continue to break barriers, build belonging and shape brighter futures for all our programme participants.”
The full ‘Girls Tackle Rugby: Insight Report’ is available to read here.
