A women’s rugby team has stripped off for a naked calendar to raise money for the club after the club’s finances were affected by the Covid-19 pandemic.
The Carlisle Cougars posed as they performed drills wearing nothing but their socks in a series of risque snaps.
Vice captain Hannah Farrell, 26, said the experiencing was ‘nerve-wracking’ but once they got going the players were happier without their kit.
‘To be honest, we have joked about doing a naked calendar for years now, but we just never got round to it.
‘We always thought it would be such a laugh, and a great way to raise money for the club, promote women’s rugby and celebrate our strong bodies,’ she explained.
‘After Covid, the club was shut for a long time, so we thought now’s the time to do it, raise money for the club and encourage women to give rugby a try.
‘We’re all very relaxed with each other in the changing rooms every week, but when it came to the photo shoot we were actually all pretty nervous!
Money generated by the calendar will be reinvested in the rugby union side, but that’s only a bonus point for Hannah.
She said: ‘Our goal was to show other women that anyone can play rugby, whatever shape, size or experience.
‘There is always a place on a rugby team for you, whether you can run five or 500 metres. We accept and welcome players, no matter their rugby experience.
‘Our players range from 18 to 40 years old, some are mothers, sisters, wives and aunties.
‘We have players from students to shift workers, and we are understanding and accepting of everyone’s circumstances.
‘Women have a lot on their plate – family and work – so rugby is a space to have to yourself and relieve any tensions, while getting fit too!’
