One of the most interesting additions to the Enfield Ignatians' youth section is the advent of a girls' team, and two of its architects, Steve and Sinead Corcoran, whose daughters are committed squad members, have big plans for the Tigers as they are also known as.

Born at Easter of last year, and currently coached by Wendy Orme, the Enfield Tigers, despite a far from easy birth, have successfully branched out from their lair and having been more than holding their own against mixed teams from Cheshunt, Harrow, Chess Valley, Old Grammarians, Datchworth, Saracens, Chingford and Barnet Elizabethans.

Steve admits that there is mileage in the novelty value. "I remember when we were playing Harrow, and one of the reactions by some of the spectators is 'oh look there's a girls' team.' They seem to attract their fair share of onlookers - no doubt spurred on by the curiosity factor."

So how did it all come about? Sinead, a supply teacher, recalls: "A lot of the girls, having had previous
experience of the minis, clearly weren't relishing the step-up to the older age groups when contact is the norm, particularly as they would be up against some rather bigger boys.

"Consequently, there was a real risk of losing them - some of them after just after a year in the game - and then that's when we hit on the idea of a girls only side playing just tag rugby. There is no shortage of counter-attractions, and individualistic ones such as ballet and Irish Dancing . It can, too, be difficult to break into some of the school netball teams so rugby is a good alternative.

Although there is scope for improvement as regards the numbers, the Enfield Tigers are sustained by hardcore of up to a dozen players, there is no shortage of passion for the game, and the positive effects of the 'rugby gospel' are clearly weaving their magic.

Sinead added: "The most pleasing aspect from our viewpoint is how well the girls get on. The team
ethos comes naturally to them - they share the work and all very aware of each other - and, when a player gets tagged, they are quick to support their team-mate.

"Some of them real naturals as regards taking to tag. They're fearless and particularly some of the younger ones, one of whom is a real 'pocket rocket'.

"Through the good offices of our youth chairman, Harold Pritchard, we managed to recruit Wendy as coach and she has been on board since October."

So what steps are being taken to broaden the Enfield Tigers' appeal? It's not an easy task, but in many ways Sinead is perfectly placed to take up the challenge, particularly as husband Steve's proven
track record as a youth coach can be brought to bear in an auxiliary role if necessary.

However, she is also hoping to work the oracle in her natural milieu. "There is word of mouth naturally, " she added. "However, being in the teaching profession, I'm in a contact with a lot of schools, and
discussions are ongoing as regards recruitment. We're also exploring sponsorship avenues.

The ambition is commendable as long-term goal is to eventually field two full-teams and we will be talking to other teams we have played this season, with a view to staging a Festival at the club.

We've also been able to design our own kit and we're in the exploratory stages as regards a possible appearance on Blue Peter." Exciting times ahead and may fortune favour the brave.

For these interested in joining, please contact Sinead Corcoran at sineadcorcoran@btinternet.com