Doncaster Demons join Doncaster Phoenix family

The amateur women's rugby union team has been a part of the Mini Junior section at Doncaster RFC for several years.

But they have now formed a women's section at ambitious Midlands Premier Division club Phoenix.

Phoenix, who are also based at Castle Park, have risen through the divisions in recent seasons and the Doncaster girls, who play in Women's NC North 2 East, will now be hoping to follow suit.

David Townend, president of Doncaster Phoenix, said: 'We have been speaking to the ladies for around a year or so now and realised that the Demons were a perfect fit to enlarge the Phoenix family.

'We already run three senior male sides, plus a veteran outfit - the Dragons - so we welcome the ladies who will enjoy our friendly, social but professional, approach to rugby.

'There are many synergies between the teams and hope that we can work together in ways such as fundraising, attracting sponsorship, coaching and recruitment.'

Gemma French, Demons' team manager, said: 'The team is excited about the future as part of Doncaster Phoenix. We just felt the time was right to move over, but still permitting the team to train, play and socialise in familiar surroundings at Castle Park.  

'There is plenty to look forward to and we are hopeful that the new women's arm of the Phoenix will attract even more players and increase the publicity of our game.'

Castle Park has been chosen to an international women's match between England and Canada on November 18.

Doncaster Knights, in conjunction with Doncaster College, also announced plans to launch a new girls rugby academy this month.

Doncaster's women started the new league season with a narrow 15-12 defeat at Hull Ionians on Sunday.

They welcome West Park Leeds Ladies II to Castle Park this Sunday.

The club currently has around 25 members but are actively recruiting and would like to hear from individuals interested in trying rugby for the first time or returning to the sport.

Training takes place every Wednesday evening 7pm at Castle Park.

Anyone interested in joining should email [email protected] or alternatively contact the club via the Phoenix website www.pitchero.com/clubs/doncasterphoenix.