Ross-on-Wye has not had a ladies football team for a long time now, but hopefully that should all be changing. Ross Juniors FC are running an open session on Friday, October 23rd at John Kyrle High School, from 6pm until 7.30pm on the astro turf.

The first session will give Ross Juniors an idea of interest levels and whether a team can be established. The idea came from Rosie Davenport, a County player, who lives in Ross. She got in touch with club to say she and a group of friends found it too far to go to Hereford to play and were wondering if Ross Juniors would consider starting a ladies side.

Loren Dykes, the Bristol Academy and Wales player, recently visited the girls section of the club and has lent her support to this new team. She said: “It would be fantastic to see ladies football growing in Ross. I recently visited the club and was really impressed with the set up - participation levels are high and so is the standard of play. This will give young female footballers a stepping stone to the next level, and provide many more opportunities for senior female footballers in the area. Who knows, we could be seeing some of these players collecting medals in a World Cup one day, that’s the dream.”

Since the announcement there has been some interest from players who have previously played with the club, up to Under 16, who are now too old, and also from parents of players in the junior team who fancy giving it a go. There has also been a lot of positive support on social media from others in the town who are keen to get involved. JKHS have also supported the venture by providing the pitch for free.

Everyone is welcome on October 23rd. There is no charge and all kit and equipment will be provided by the Ross Juniors Football Club. Please email Paul at [email protected] with any questions.