From just three brave women turning up on a chilly August night in 2021 to a buzzing squad of nearly forty fierce players today, Uddingston Selkies have transformed from raw rookies into respected contenders — and their story is one of grit, growth, and community passion. This is the tale of a team that refused to be defined by its humble beginnings and is now inspiring a whole new generation of women to take up the sport.
The Humble Beginnings: From Three to Thirty-Nine
The Selkies story began simply. On a quiet August evening, three women — most with no rugby experience whatsoever — showed up to the very first training session. These pioneers had one thing in common: a desire to try something new, to learn, and to be part of a team. What followed was a journey that would transform lives and challenge the notion of who rugby is for.
In the early months, training was tough. Sometimes they barely had enough players to take the field, often playing with as few as 10 women on the pitch at a time in the Scottish Rugby Aspiring League. But that didn’t dampen their spirit. Thanks to a growing presence on social media, word spread quickly, and more women, from students to mums, joined the ranks, swelling the squad to nearly 40 by 2024.
Early Challenges & Steady Growth
Despite the steady influx of players, challenges were many. In January 2023, to ensure they could field a full team, Uddingston Selkies teamed up with another women’s rugby side to compete in the National Bowl. Though the journey ended in the regional group stages against tough opponents, this experience gave the team invaluable exposure to high-level competition.
By August 2023, the Selkies had grown into a solid unit, ready to enter the newly developed West 2 league. Their start was anything but smooth — games were frantic and unstructured, but the team’s commitment to improving was clear. As the season wore on, the Selkies found their rhythm, developing structure and securing
key victories that boosted confidence across the squad.
The Breakthrough: National Plate Success & Murrayfield Dreams
January 2024 marked a turning point. The team had gelled and were playing some of their best rugby yet when they entered the National Plate competition. The Selkies dominated their group games, securing a home semi-final against a formidable opponent who had reached the final the previous year.
In what many players describe as the highlight of their playing careers, the Selkies pulled off a stunning victory, celebrated long into the night. The win earned them a place in the National Plate final at Murrayfield’s Hive stadium — an awe-inspiring moment for a club so young and still finding its feet.
Though the final against Caithness Krakens ended in a loss, it was a proud moment for the Selkies, affirming their place on the national stage and fuelling their hunger to keep improving.
Community, Culture & Commitment
Beyond the scoreboard, Uddingston Selkies have become a beacon for women’s rugby in their region. The team draws from a wonderfully diverse community — students, professionals, mums, women discovering sport in their later years. Each player brings something unique to the pitch and to the club’s culture.
“We’re not just building players; we’re building confidence, friendships, and lifelong skills,” says vice-captain Kirsten Sloan. “Rugby is a game for all shapes, sizes, and backgrounds. There’s a place here for everyone.”
The Selkies have also taken their message into the local community, attending food markets, college events, and fayres to promote rugby and inspire others. The support and engagement from the Uddingston Rugby Club committee has been instrumental in providing a platform for women’s rugby to thrive.
Recognition & Ambition: A Legacy Fund Win
In 2024, Uddingston Selkies were honoured as winners of the Telegraph Media Group Honda Rugby Legacy Fund — a prestigious national award recognizing grassroots clubs that are driving the growth of women’s rugby.
The award came with a £1,000 prize, earmarked to cover kit, physiotherapy, travel expenses, and subsidized memberships — critical support for a young club keen to remove barriers to participation. But more than the money, the opportunity to train with England legend and Rugby World Cup winner Maggie Alphonsi was an
unforgettable boost.
“Training with Maggie was inspiring. Hearing her stories and learning from her experience gave us a fresh sense of purpose,” reflects club captain Jennifer Scahill. “It reminded us that this is bigger than just the game — it’s about building a legacy.”
Women’s Rugby: A Sport for Every Body
One of the defining strengths of women’s rugby is its inclusivity. Unlike other sports that cater only to a narrow athletic profile, rugby welcomes diversity — in body types, fitness levels, and backgrounds. At Uddingston Selkies, players range from sprinters to strategists, powerhouses to thinkers.
The Selkies emphasize that rugby isn’t about fitting a stereotype; it’s about finding a role that plays to your strengths, while building skills and confidence. Whether you’re a size 8 or a size 18, whether you’ve never played before or are a seasoned athlete, the pitch is a place where everyone can thrive.
“Most of our players started with zero experience,” notes Kirsten Sloan. “But with the right support, coaching, and attitude, they’ve blossomed. Rugby has the power to transform how you see yourself — on and off the field.”
How To Get Involved: No Experience or Fitness Needed
If you’re curious about rugby but hesitant to try, the Selkies want you to know this: you don’t need any experience or fitness level to start. The club welcomes all women aged 18 and over — whether you’re a complete beginner or looking to return to sport after years away.
Training sessions are supportive and fun, with an emphasis on learning, teamwork, and enjoyment. The qualified coaching team tailor drills to suit everyone’s abilities, ensuring no one is left behind.
Social media channels and the club website provide up-to-date information on training times and events.
Joining the Selkies means more than playing a sport — it’s joining a community that supports you, challenges you, and celebrates every step of your journey.
Looking to the Future: Bigger, Stronger, Together
As the Selkies head into the 2025/26 season, their ambitions are clear: to compete strongly in their league, grow the women’s and girls’ sections, and keep building a club culture rooted in inclusivity, respect, and excellence.
The goal isn’t just to win games (though that’s definitely on the horizon) — it’s to create a safe, empowering space where women of all backgrounds can discover their potential, find new friendships, and challenge stereotypes.
From humble beginnings to national recognition, the Uddingston Selkies are proof that with passion, perseverance, and community, anything is possible.
