HARWICH and Dovercourt Rugby Club’s Owls enjoyed great success in their first-ever competitive season.

Up against more experienced teams, they finished a very commendable fourth in the NC South East East 2 League.

Much of the credit must go to coaches Walter Blacker and Tim Flatt.

The team won half their matches and were the only side to beat champions Canterbury.

In addition, six Owls players – Mimi Montgomery, Abi Cutts, Hannah Martin, Naomi Dobner, Kimberly Hutchins and Annalise Allan – were selected for the Eastern Counties squad.

The last Harwich player picked to represent the region was Mike Molloy – 50 years ago.

The Owls also added silverware to their trophy cabinet by winning a ladies’ sevens tournament in North Walsham.

At the club’s end-of-season awards night, the female players were recognised for their efforts.

Cutts, Sophia Tricker, Tasha Bray and Dobner picked up the main awards for their performances throughout the season.

The Owls only started two years ago, with a handful of enthusiasts, and now boast a playing roster of 31 ladies.

They also have 14 under-16s, known as the Owlets.

They also train every week, helping the club develop into a force to be reckoned with.

Club chairman Barry Male and the club’s main sponsor, Chassis-Cab, recognise the positive effect ladies’ rugby has had on the club.

They will continue to offer the highest standard of facilities and support to help women’s rugby progress at Low Road.

Training will be running throughout the summer, with the Owls (over-17s) training on a Thursday at 7.30pm and the Owlets (under-17s) on a Tuesday at 7pm Any players looking to try out ladies’ rugby are more than welcome to attend.