What to Expect at Your First Session
Trying something new is exciting, but if we’re honest, it can also be a little nerve-wracking! If you’ve never picked up a rugby ball before, walking into your first session can feel pretty daunting. But you’re not alone, and you don’t have to know all the rules (or what position you play) to get started!
Here’s what you can expect from your first time at training.
Everyone was once a Beginner too
From the outside its easy to assume that everyone around you is super confident, but at some point every woman on your new team has been exactly where you are, starting rugby for the first time or joining a new club and feeling nervous about it. Even many of the current international players can get a bit nervous before joining a new club!
Lots of women start rugby for the first time at uni or come to rugby later in life, whether it’s post-study, post-kids, or after watching a game and thinking, I want to try that, so rugby clubs are used to welcoming players of all levels.
don’t panic about kit
You don’t need to buy tons of specialist kit right away. Start with what you have: leggings or shorts, a t-shirt and hoodie and you’ll be good to go. The pieces of kit you will need are boots and if you’re planning to get stuck straight into contact a gumshield. Check out our Rugby for Rookies kit guide here for more information on what to bring to your first session.
Expect to learn new things and have a laugh
A typical first session will include a warm-up, some ball-handling basics, maybe a bit of contact with bags (only if you’re ready!), and a few small-sided games. Try not to worry about getting everything right first time, it’s less about being good straight away and more about being prepared to give things a go and get stuck in.
The team will help you settle in
You don’t have to be the fittest, fastest, or loudest. Rugby is a sport that values all body types, personalities, and skill sets. One of the best things about rugby is how quickly your new teammates will welcome you to the squad. Most clubs will follow training with a chat, or a drink and you’ll be surprised how quickly you make friends and feel part of the group.
A piece of advice that we loved from Bristol Bears star Pamphinette Buisa is to focus on the little things like learning your teammates names, and making sure to ask how they’re doing, to help you settle in at your new club.
It’s normal to be nervous
It’s okay to feel unsure. New skills, new faces, new environments - it’s a lot. But the important part is showing up. The rest will come. Everyone on that pitch was a beginner once too, and they’ll be cheering you on for even giving it a go.
