A new set of shirts for the island’s schools sides marked the significant landmark of the birth of girls’ rugby in the Isle of Man.

Previously girls were allowed to engage with the sport until they reached year 7.

This historically meant that their playing opportunities ended and their next opportunity for participation would not be until turning 18 and playing senior women’s rugby.

As part of the island’s ongoing rugby development plan, the 2016-17 season saw schools and clubs starting to play under-13 (Year 7 and 8) fixtures and build up a genuine interest in the female side of the junior game.

Rugby development officer Chris Brannigan added: ’Superb commitment from schools to engage girls in to playing along with strong support from England Rugby saw each of the participating schools bought a brand new set of playing shirts for the 2017-18 season and beyond.

’In September schools and clubs will be looking to offer game opportunities for both u13 and u15 (Year 9 and 10) girls.

’With the Women’s World Cup taking place in Ireland, it’s a great opportunity for girls to really engage in a sport they previously had no opportunity in.

’Who knows, we may even see some of them featuring at the next World Cup in four years.’