Six Nations acts as springboard for women's rugby, claims Cambridgeshire club
England play France in their final match tonight
A women's rugby player in Cambridgeshire believes the Six Nations is helping provide more of a chance for females to shine in the game.
It comes as England's men's side play France in their final match, knowing a win would give them a shot of winning the tournament if Ireland slip up against Scotland.
England Rugby's Every Rose Strategy says it aims to have 100,000 females playing the game by 2027.
Laura Arrowsmith captains the March Bears women's team and is the club's honorary secretary.
She said the opportunities for women to develop in the sport are growing.
"There is a place for everybody"
"The game is physical, however there is a place for everybody on the rugby pitch," she said.
"When we get new ladies join, they're always quite surprised how there is a place for everyone and that everyone is welcome.
"I've always been an avid fan of rugby, I just never had the opportunity to play, but that's changing now and the women's rugby in the Six Nations is great to see."
Alana Ricci joined March Bears last summer and also helps the women's setup off the pitch.
She hopes watching the Six Nations can be the stepping stone for many females to try out the sport.
"International games are always shown on TVs in pubs, and whether you're there with family or out with the girls, I would naturally be drawn to that TV and I think that exposure encourages girls and women to explore it further," said Alana.
Retaining players
Laura hopes more women holding higher roles within rugby clubs is important, the challenge of retaining players still remains.
"Once they get to year 7, they separate from the mixed teams which then sees a drop in girls playing and that's something I know our junior section is trying to improve," she added.
"That is key, seeing women in these positions which will inspire the younger generation and just breaking down those barriers is really important."