SWINTON AND FOLLY LANE ANNOUNCE DEN FOR LIONESSES!
19 November 2020
Swinton Lions, in association with community partner club Folly Lane, are delighted to reveal that their newly formed women’s team, the “Lionesses” will be based in both clubs’ traditional home town.
Back in March, ahead of the first national lockdown, Swinton Lions announced their intent to launch a Lionesses section.
Since then Covid has of course impacted on the intended timeframe, but behind the scenes positive conversations have continued with Folly Lane.
As a result of this partnership it can now be confirmed that the Lionesses will be based at Folly’s Blue Ribbon Field headquarters in Pendlebury, both for home matches as well as for training purposes.
The arrangement between the two organisations not only strengthens their community partnership, but it also means that a “Swinton” named rugby league team will be playing in the town after an absence of some 28 years.
The Lionesses project also represents a major step-forward for the development of female rugby league in the Swinton, Salford and Greater Manchester area.
“It’s a great opportunity for both of our clubs!”
Folly Lane’s Gary Woodward was delighted with this latest development in the relationship between his club and Swinton Lions. He said “Folly Lane are excited to be hosting The Lionesses in 2021.
“It’s a great opportunity for both of our clubs. I’m sure that supporters of both Swinton and Folly will get behind this.
“The standard of women’s RL has improved massively since the days of Folly Lane running a team over 20 years ago, and it’s only going to get better.
“Our club will open to all, so come down, watch the game, have a drink, a bite to eat, and enjoy the match. Good luck Lionesses!”
“Folly is a fantastic club and one that I have a special affinity for!”
The Lionesses Head Coach Martina Greenwood, who was formally announced yesterday added, “I’m delighted that the Lionesses will be based in our traditional home town.
“Folly is a fantastic club and one that I have a special affinity for, particularly as both my son and brother are playing members.
“I’d encourage all prospective players, regardless of ability or experience, to come down and give our great sport a try.
“Aside from keeping fit and learning new skills, you’ll be sure to make lots of friends.”
Damian Ridpath, the Swinton Lions Director of Development, was equally enthusiastic. He enthused, “On behalf of Swinton Lions I want to thank Gary Woodward and everyone at Folly Lane for so readily buying into our vision for the women’s game in the Swinton and Manchester area.
“Our intention is to field an open-age side during 2021, as well as a 16 to 18 years team.
“The important things is for girls and women to come down and have a go at the sport.
“In Martina we have recruited an outstanding coach, and our Lionesses will be sure to progress from strength to strength.”
The very first engagement-day of the Lionesses will take place @ 10am on Sunday 17th January 2021 at Folly Lane ARLFC, Blue Ribbon Field, Fraser Street, Pendlebury M27 4DH. All prospective players will be very welcome!
For more information contact: [email protected] or [email protected]
