Derbyshire Dragons roar into new season with record growth

The club is inviting more girls to get involved and discover the confidence, friendships and opportunities that rugby can provide.

The future of girls' rugby in Derbyshire continues to look brighter than ever as Derbyshire Dragons prepare for their biggest and most exciting season yet.

Derbyshire Dragons, all 4 age groups togetherplaceholder image
Derbyshire Dragons, all 4 age groups together | Richard Waterhouse

The club has seen continued growth over the past year, leading to the introduction of a brand-new Under-12s squad for the 2026-27 campaign. The addition reflects increasing numbers of girls taking up rugby across the county and provides a pathway for players from an even younger age.

The Dragons' older age groups are also set for an exciting season of competition. The 12s will play their first fixtures as a girls-only squad at that age. The Under-14s will compete in the NLD Conference Cup, while both the Under-16s and Under-18s squads are hoping to retain a place in the prestigious RFU National Cup.

U12s getting ready for the seasonplaceholder image
U12s getting ready for the season | Richard Waterhouse

There is already plenty of success to build on. Last season's Under-18s enjoyed a memorable campaign, reaching the Regional Final of the RFU National Cup and being crowned NLD Conference champions.

Club coaches believe the continued growth demonstrates the increasing popularity of girls' rugby and the welcoming environment the Dragons have created for players of all abilities, whether they are experienced athletes or trying the sport for the first time.

With new teams, national-level competition and growing numbers of players pulling on the Dragons shirt, the club is inviting more girls to get involved and discover the confidence, friendships and opportunities that rugby can provide.

Anyone interested in joining Derbyshire Dragons can contact the club through its social media channels or attend one of its training sessions and become part of one of the county's fastest-growing girls' rugby programmes.

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