The Penn Hills School Board approved a pilot program for a girls club rugby team on Feb. 28.
Stephanie Strauss, Penn Hills’ director of athletics and activities, said a preliminary sign-up to gauge interest was held in December at the high school. About 15 girls signed up then. After a second round of sign-ups, the prospective team garnered a total of 25 girls.
“Girls’ sports is something that we’re trying to grow,” Strauss said. “Our numbers are looking a bit low — lower than boys. We’re trying to create opportunities for girls to participate. And when we saw those high (sign-up) numbers, we wanted to start this pilot program and see where it goes.”
Strauss said that if the program goes well, they’re hoping to make it an official sport by next school year.
The process is familiar to the school and students because the boys varsity rugby team began in the same way a few years ago.
“The boys play 15 on 15 and the girls are going to play seven on seven so it’s a smaller game, but the girls are really excited about it and I’m excited to see how it goes,” Strauss said.
The team will play on Sundays so that girls on other sports teams — such as softball, basketball and track — will be able to participate in the club. With the approval, the team will begin its season March 4. Starting in April, the team will face West Allegheny, Mt. Lebanon, Penn Hills, North Pitt Club and Doddridge.
Matt Rosemeyer, head coach of the boys rugby team, also will be spearheading the girls’ program.
