From rugby novice to competing at County level: Maisie Boyd’s Project Rugby story
Maisie was first introduced to rugby four years ago as a Year 9 student at Emmanuel College. Maisie, alongside her classmates, took part in a Project Rugby session led by Falcons Community Development Officer, Orla McCallion. At the time, Maisie was completely unaware that one rugby session could impact her life for good.
Project Rugby is a programme ran by Falcons Community, supported by Premiership Rugby and England Ruby. It is designed to increase participation in rugby between people from traditionally underrepresented groups.
Project Rugby has engaged with over 75,000 young people since the programme began, reinforcing rugby is a sport for everyone, no matter what their background and has a unique ability to change lives.
Following Maisie’s first taster session, she become hooked by the game and was keen to get more involved in the sport, joining an afterschool extracurricular session ran by Falcons Community.
Falcons Community Development Officer, Orla McCallion said: “Maisie had great potential and was gaining more and more confidence as the weeks went on.”
Through Project Rugby, Maisie was able to participate a fantastic Gateshead transition festival, and soon after, began attending Gateshead RFC training, alongside 18 other girls.
Fast forward four years, Maisie is continuing her rugby journey as a college student on Falcons Community’s Rugby Excellence Programme with Tynemet. Her game has significantly progressed, and has been selected for the North East and Cumbria Centre of Excellence.
Tynemet Rugby Excellence Programme Coach, Niall Johal said: “It is clear that the key values Maisie learnt through her Project Rugby sessions have transferred into our Tynemet environment and her our current game. She plays an important role as a leader during all training and matches.”
To find out more about Project Rugby and to find a session near you, head to **[www.projectrugby.co.uk][1]** or email **falconscommunity@newcastle-falcons.co.uk**.
To find out more about Falcons Community’s Rugby Excellence Programme with Tynemet, please email **niall.johal@newcastle-falcons.co.uk** or **drew.hayton@newcastle-falcons.co.uk**
[1]: http://www.projectrugby.co.uk
