FEMALE rugby players have new opportunities available to them this month.

There are trials taking place for county teams, and there are fitness sessions being staged at a nearby club.

For those interested in potentially representing Cheshire age-group teams, there are two key dates.

The under 18s trial is scheduled for Sunday, January 9 from 1pm to 4pm.

This will be followed by a trial for the under 15s age group on Sunday, January 26, also from 1pm to 4pm.

Both sessions will take place at Chester RUFC on an artificial grass pitch.

Players are eligible to play for Cheshire if they live in the county, or if they play for a Cheshire club, or if they were born in the county, or if they have played for Cheshire previously.

To apply, visit cheshirerfu.co.uk/2019/11/19/cheshire-girls-trials/

Meanwhile, an invitation has been put out to women and girls in the area who may be interested in a change for their usual workout routine.

Lymm Rugby Club are offering fun, free, fitness-based England Rugby Warrior Camps for the next month.

The sessions feature a sprinkle of rugby focused activity, while introducing like-minded women and girls who are there to have a good time and keep fit.

Warrior Camps have been running for three years up and down the country but for the first time they will be taking place over four to five consecutive weekends, allowing those taking part to build some momentum in their fitness regime while getting to grips with the basics of rugby.

Each session will be slightly different, building on the previous week while increasing confidence and skills under the guidance of experienced England Rugby community coaches.

The sessions are designed so that you can join at any time throughout the series.

The Lymm sessions will take place each Saturday from January 11 to February 8 from 10am-11am at Lymm's Crouchley Lane ground, WA13 0AS.

Organisers say rugby offers an opportunity for people of all shapes, sizes and skill sets to play, and welcomes anyone who may have overindulged during the festive period!

The Warrior Camps also welcome back any players who previously hung up their boots for a few seasons; this could be the perfect opportunity to ease back into the game.

18,000 women and girls have found their love of rugby through a Warrior Camp over the past three years.

Sarah Hunter, England Red Rose captain said: “It can often be daunting to try a new sport or get the motivation needed to go along to the gym for the first time.

"That’s why Warrior Camps are the perfect opportunity to challenge yourself and as a result, you can have fun and get fit all at the same time!

"Warm up activities, learning passing, catching skills, and fitness drills are combined to create these unique and exciting sessions.

“Bringing a friend with you can also help with the nerves but don’t worry if not, you’ll still meet plenty of great ladies at the sessions. I’ve made friends for life!”

Steve Grainger, rugby development director at the RFU, said: “2019 was a great year for women’s rugby with the Red Roses winning the Six Nations Grand Slam and continuing their winning streak at the Quilter Internationals.

"What better inspiration for any girls and women who might want to get involved and try it for themselves. We welcome anyone interested to head down to their local Warrior Camp this January to enjoy a rugby taster session in a fun and welcoming environment."

All you will need to take part are a pair of trainers, your usual workout gear and a ‘have a go’ attitude.

Visit englandrugby.com/find-rugby to register.