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Rugby News

Preview | Tigers make women's league debut

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Fly-half Ellie Turner says it is “a bit surreal” to be wearing a Leicester Tigers shirt as part of the team which makes a first appearance in the Women’s Championship North this weekend.

After starting her rugby career at Hinckley, Turner has gained experience with Lichfield, Loughborough, Leicestershire and the Midlands before becoming a member of the inaugural Tigers squad which plays its first league game in Championship North 1 at Bishop Auckland this afternoon (Sunday, 2.30pm).

“I’m really excited to be involved,” Turner said ahead of the trip to County Durham.

“I’m Leicestershire born and bred so Tigers is my team, it was fun watching them growing up, all my family are interested in them and now I’m going to play for them. My Dad was one of the first to get his season ticket for the women’s games. It’s a bit surreal.”

Turner, who works as an SEN teacher, has worked through the pre-season with the squad and played in all three warm-up fixtures.

She said: “It has been tough but it’s been good. Those three games were all very different and all helped our strength as a squad.

“Even in the first game against Bristol, we saw a lot to work on and identified some strengths as well. We’ve got better with each game.

“Now everyone is excited for the first league game. I think every day you get more excited, but you have to control that mix of nerves and excitement to go on to the pitch and play.”

There will be a full report and reaction from today's game on the Tigers website, app and social media channels. Follow @tigerswomens on Twitter and Instagram for more coverage of the team.