THE return of grassroots rugby has seen "incredible turnouts" since outdoor sports returned.

Many wondered what effects the pandemic would have on playing numbers, but Basingstoke Rugby Club has it says had full attendances at training sessions, and many new players at several different age groups.

The club says that early signs are "extremely positive" and "suggest the long lockdown has not dampened enthusiasm for the sport in any way".

From minis to the veterans, across the entire nation, kit has been donned, boots laced, Covid measures put in place and rugby returning with a passion.

Chairman of Basingstoke RFC, James Jagged, said: “The response from players, parents and volunteers has been so positive and I thank them all for their support.

"The Club atmosphere is one of excitement and anticipation as we begin to open up in respect of playing and the clubhouse.

"The last year has been challenging in so many ways but to see so many players out there during the week and at weekends is brilliant, with a real surge in new player enquiries across all age groups."

James said that the enthusiasm he has seen has been "overwhelming", with "incredible" turnouts.

He said: "To see the youngsters running around on the pitch was just amazing. The first couple of weeks have been characterised by huge grins spreading across pitches as they see their team mates again for the first time in months.

"We have also been receiving lots of enquiries about other youngsters, who’ve been cooped up for so long, joining us, which is great."

He added: "This is a very exciting time. It feels like a fresh start towards the 2021/2022 season. Everyone is full of enthusiasm and absolutely thrilled to be allowed back to training and even more so to play in competitive games, with the adapted laws, from April 2. It’s excellent timing as many players were starting to feel the constraints of the national lockdown both mentally and physically.

“We’d encourage anyone who would like to give rugby a go to come down to a club training session.

"New players are always welcome and you are sure to be given a warm reception in a fun environment. We’re making sure we follow all the Covid-19 guidance and sanitising processes to enable players to enjoy themselves and keep fit in a safe outdoor environment.”

Training sessions are held on Thursdays at 7:30pm for adult Men and Under-18’s and Wednesday at 7:30pm for Ladies. Juniors and Mini’s sessions are held on Sundays at 10am, with Under-18’s Girls training at 1pm, also on Sundays.

For more information go to basingstokerfc.com or contact administration@basingstokerfc.com