Tackling barriers: How England is trying to keep women and girls in sport

LONDON: On a rugby pitch in inner-city London, a fresh wave of new players is signing up, inspired by England’s triumph at this year’s Women’s Rugby World Cup.

The Hackney Gladies – the women’s side of the Hackney Rugby Football Club – said the victory in September has sparked a surge in enthusiasm for the sport.

“This year, (interest has) just taken over. We've already had about 25 new signups … which has meant that people like me, who used to play, are stepping up and coaching,” said Lamees Idris, who chairs the senior teams.

She added that the World Cup win has helped shift attitudes on women’s rugby, challenging old stereotypes and bringing new visibility to the game.

The Rugby Football Union, the sport’s governing body in England, wants to build on the momentum. It aims to grow th