ProAcademy Rugby Hosts Successful Girls-Only Rugby Camp at Barkers’ Butts RFC
ProAcademy Rugby recently held a highly successful girls-only rugby camp at Barkers’ Butts RFC, marking a significant step forward in promoting and developing female rugby talent. The camp, which attracted 22 enthusiastic participants, was led by former Gloucester Hartpury player Alice Burtonshaw and included a comprehensive Strength & Conditioning (S&C) workshop, alongside cutting-edge force plate testing, delivered by The Movement Physio team.
Alice Burtonshaw, whose experience at the top levels of women’s rugby provided invaluable insight, guided the girls through a day filled with skill development, tactical awareness, and the physical demands of the sport. Her hands-on approach and expert coaching were key to the camp’s success, as she shared her journey from grassroots rugby to the professional stage, inspiring the young athletes to pursue their own dreams.
In addition to on-field drills, the camp featured a detailed S&C workshop designed to educate the players on the importance of physical conditioning in rugby. This session was enhanced by force plate testing conducted by The Movement Physio team, providing the girls with detailed feedback on their power output and movement efficiency. The integration of sports science into the camp’s curriculum underscored ProAcademy Rugby’s commitment to holistic player development.
Chris Shipway, Head of Delivery at ProAcademy Rugby, expressed his satisfaction with the day’s events.
“We are thrilled with the turnout and the energy that all 22 girls brought to the camp. The goal of ProAcademy Rugby is to provide young female players with the same high-quality training and resources that are available to their male counterparts. Having Alice Burtonshaw lead the day, coupled with the expertise of The Movement Physio team, ensured that these girls left with not just improved skills, but also a greater understanding of what it takes to excel in rugby.”
The success of this camp at Barkers’ Butts RFC reflects a growing interest and investment in women’s rugby at the grassroots level. ProAcademy Rugby is dedicated to continuing its support of female athletes through specialised camps, development programs, and opportunities that empower the next generation of rugby stars.
As the sport continues to grow in popularity among women, events like these are crucial in ensuring that female athletes receive the guidance, training, and inspiration they need to succeed both on and off the pitch.
