R

Despite the transformative power of sport, too many girls are still held back. By their teens, only 37% of girls enjoy taking part in sport, with 68% fearing they’ll be judged. But programmes like Project Rugby, through Schools Partnership, are changing this narrative.

For many young girls, the fear of judgement and a lack of confidence create barriers to engaging in sport. R, a student at a local SEND school in Bath, understands these challenges all too well. Living with Selective Mutism, she struggled to use her voice in social settings and felt intimidated by the thought of noisy, fast-paced environments like rugby.

“I never thought rugby was for me,” Ruby admits. “I usually just like to dance. I thought rugby would be too loud and I wouldn’t know what to do.”

Schools Partnership, and Project Rugby, exists to break down barriers like these. The programme is designed for young people who traditionally feel excluded from sport, offering tailored sessions that foster inclusivity and self-belief. By hosting these sessions at The Rec, a welcoming and iconic space, the Foundation brings sport within reach of everyone.

When R first attended Project Rugby, coaches saw her hesitation to speak or make eye contact. But they also noticed her exceptional coordination and movement, drawn from her love of dance. Coaches adapted the game to suit her strengths, encouraging her to use her balance and rhythm on the rugby pitch.

“That changed everything,” R says. “I realised my dancing feet were actually good for rugby. I started to feel brave.”

Through personalised guidance, R’s journey with us blossomed. In just three months, R transitioned from shy observation to actively calling for passes, chatting with teammates, and directing play. Each moment of success boosted her confidence, proving she could thrive both physically and socially within a team.

“When R joined us in September, she wouldn’t make eye contact, let alone speak,” a Bath Rugby Foundation coach reflects. “Once she realised she could out-step people, her confidence unlocked. Seeing her go from silent observation to laughing and calling for the ball is exactly why we do this.”

R’s story highlights the transformative impact of supportive environments and tailored coaching. Since discovering her place at The Rec, she has bridged the gap between arts and sport, realising she didn’t have to choose between the two.

“I love running with the ball now,” R shares. “Before coming to The Rec, I was too shy. Now I feel strong - and I like being part of the team.”

At Bath Rugby Foundation, we believe that sport can unlock confidence, connection, and potential in every young person - even those with the quietest voices.

Help us support more young girls

Through our Schools Partnership, we are helping 1,532 girls every year to rediscover their love of movement and sport. By offering mentoring, building self-confidence, and creating communities where young girls can feel like they belong, we are committed to breaking down barriers.

Join us in supporting girls like R to flourish, both on and off the pitch.

Please select a donation amount (required)

£5 Provides life-changing support, opening doors to education, inclusion, and opportunity for the young people who need it most.

£10 Allows us to provide a young person with learning disabilities their first experience of a fun and inclusive social club.

£20 Enables us to provide food for young people during our sessions, giving them access to a balanced diet.

£30 Ensures a young person can travel to our Alternative Learning Hub to access their education.

£50 Provides a week of sports activities for a young person, helping them to build confidence and friendships.

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