Following a period of regional training since the New Year, regional U18 women’s sides will compete against each other over three Sundays ahead of selection for the Wales Under 18 squad, led by Burgess as head coach.
The five regional sides will play each other in 20 minute matches this Sunday at Ystrad Mynach (11 – 4.30), at Merthyr RFC on Sunday 13 February and at Cardiff Arms Park on Sunday 20 February.
Burgess said, “I’ve watched training at all the regions over the past month and it’s been amazing to see the talent on show.
“The players – and management teams – have been so committed in their twice weekly training sessions and the girls have had a real taste of a high performance environment. They have not only benefitted from quality coaching but have developed their strength and fitness, learned about nutrition, analysis and other aspects of the game at this level.
“We wanted to put a competitive programme together to come together to play each other a number of times and step up another gear in a match situation. I can’t wait to watch them over the next three Sundays before the difficult task of selecting a Wales U18 squad.”
Wales prop Cerys Hale, who is Dragons U18 forwards coach said, “I’m thoroughly enjoying coaching these girls. Having an impact on the next generation of players is something I’m passionate about. I asked the girls recently what they want to do in the future and one of them said they want to play rugby professionally which is so good to hear following the announcement of our senior player contracts.
“Our main focus for these rounds of games is to help our players to keep improving with every experience. I can’t wait to see how they progress.”
Women’s Regional Tournament
Sunday 6 February Centre of Sporting Excellence, Ystrad Mynach 11am – 4.30pm
Sunday 13 February Merthyr RFC (The Wern) 11am – 4.30pm
Sunday 20 February Cardiff Arms Park 11am – 4.30pm
Free entry
