Written by Jenna Sampson
Talk of a women’s rugby team at Harding University is becoming a reality this fall. Freshmen Beth Gibbons, Alison Berry, Hannah McCarty and Kelsey DeShazo have decided to form a Women’s Rugby Club at Harding.On Sept. 21, informational meeting, with a turnout of 30 ladies who showed an interest in playing this intense sport. Despite a lack of experience, Gibbons and her colleagues share a love for the sport and are looking forward to working with girls with and without playing experience.”Those of us starting the team do not have experience, but we want to start a team here for girls who have had experience playing the game and are now showing interest in joining the team,” Gibbons said. “We also wanted to make it available to girls who have never played before but are willing to try something new.”Gibbons said the goal of the group is not just to compete with local teams, but to bring the players together. Including practice times, there will also be set dates when the team can work out and encourage each other.Although the team will not be affiliated with Harding University athletics, the leaders of the club said they are currently looking for a faculty member to be their sponsor. To find out more about the women’s team, join the Facebook group “Harding University Girl’s Rugby Team” or send an e-mail toegibbons@harding.edu.
