Bedford Blues have announced that its women’s team will host all home matches and training sessions at Goldington Road from the 2023/24 season onwards.
Since formation in 2020, Blues Women have trained at Bedford Athletic RFC, under the Bedford Junior Blues relationship, which has also played host to several matches this season, alongside Goldington Road being used on five previous occasions.
The permanent move into the home of Bedford rugby will give them their own space and facilities ahead of a new season, where they also hope to attract more players, grow crowd numbers and will come directly under club management.
Whilst placing additional pressure on the grounds, facilities and resources, the opportunity to bring Blues Women to Goldington Road is a really exciting step and part of the club’s future growth plans.
Bedford Blues Chief Operating Officer, Gareth Alred, said: “We feel this is the vital next step for Blues Women as they look for further progression again next season. Since the team’s inception, it has been fantastic to see the growth of our community side and how they’ve brought people together.
“As an integral part of our Blues Family, we hope we can accelerate that growth and support them through improved resources at Goldington Road. We wish them well for their final game of this current campaign on Sunday and look forward to welcoming this summer.”
Bedford Blues would like to thank Mark Stapley, who will stand down as Head of Women’s & Girls Rugby at the end of this season. His tireless work in setting up both programmes and running them over the past few years is greatly appreciated by many. He will be succeeded in the role by Abi Simpson.
Gareth added: “I would also like to take this opportunity to thank Mark for his tremendous efforts, this simply wouldn’t have been achieved without him. He has also played a major role in the succession plan, and we wish the very best of luck to Abi going forward.”
Find out more about Bedford Blues at the website.
