Over 15 female students from Exeter College have been enjoying a summer of touch rugby at Exmouth beach as part of a project in partnership with the Rugby Football Union's O2 Touch Rugby programme.

The exciting project has enabled many of the students to challenge themselves to try a new sport and enjoy the recent spell of good weather.

The project forms part of the Exeter College “Active Exeter” programme which is being developed and delivered by the College Sport Maker Dan Pulsford. The college bid for funding from the Rugby Football Union following suggestions from a number of female students about how they'd like the sessions to be organised.

With comments such as “it was fantastic to take part in a new sport” and “it's great playing rugby in a new environment – love it!” it is clear that the touch rugby programme has been an outstanding success!

“The students have been great,” said Dan Pulsford. “All of them have enjoyed themselves trying something new and we are now helping a number of them find a local rugby club. We will now look to expand the programme to get more students playing sport across Exeter College. This is just one of a number of activities we are planning in our 'Active Exeter' programme. It aims to get more students taking part in regular sport and physical activity both inside Exeter College and in their local community.”

“The college is very proud of the fantastic achievements of our sports faculty but this Active Exeter programme is about getting a higher profile for sport and physical activity right across the college. Support and funding from important partners such as Rugby Football Union is very important to ensure we can cover all types of sessions.”