How Can Aitchison Inspire Like Finn Russell?

Holly Aitchison, alongside fellow World Cup winners Amy Cokayne and Morweena Talling, took the field for Sale Sharks last weekend, marking a significant chapter in her career. After joining Sale in a high-profile revamp, Aitchison is focused on solidifying her role as a fly-half, asserting that she won't be transitioning into other positions. Her ambitions are clear: to lead and inspire the backline while promoting an exciting style of rugby that captivates fans.

Last updated: 08 November 2023 (BST)

What’s happening now

As the new season unfolds, Holly Aitchison has firmly established herself as a key player for Sale Sharks in the Premier 15s Rugby (PWR). Following their last-place finish last season, Sale is aiming for a substantial turnaround, having secured significant signings including Aitchison, Cokayne, and others. The team is looking to build momentum after a promising start, having won their opening match decisively against Leicester and now preparing to face Trailfinders Women. Aitchison’s determination to play as a fly-half and lead the team is a crucial element of this transformation.

Key takeaways

Aitchison is committed to her role as a fly-half, rejecting shifts to other positions.
Sale Sharks have made notable signings to strengthen their squad after a challenging previous season.
The team aims for a top-six finish this season, with ambitions to challenge for the top four next season.

Timeline: how we got here

The journey of Holly Aitchison and Sale Sharks has been marked by significant milestones:

August 2023: Aitchison joins Sale Sharks, emphasizing her commitment to the fly-half position.
October 2023: Sale Sharks kick off their season with a 46-17 victory against Leicester.
November 2023: Upcoming match against Trailfinders Women as part of the PWR season.

What’s new vs what’s known

New today/this week

Holly Aitchison's recent performances have showcased her leadership potential as a fly-half, particularly in the opening match against Leicester where she played a pivotal role in the team's victory. Her determination to remain in her chosen position has become a focal point of discussions around team dynamics this season.

What was already established

Aitchison's past experiences, including her role in the Red Roses' successful campaign at WXV in Canada, provided her with the confidence and skills necessary for her current role. However, her challenges during the Rugby World Cup, including an ankle injury, limited her opportunities and raised questions about her position within the team.

Impact for the UK

Consumers and households

The revitalisation of Sale Sharks and increased visibility of women's rugby could encourage local support and attendance at matches, fostering a community spirit around the sport. Families and young fans in the North West may see Aitchison as a role model, potentially boosting youth participation in rugby.

Businesses and jobs

With the team's success, local businesses may experience increased patronage from rugby fans attending matches. Furthermore, the professionalisation of women's rugby could lead to job creation within the sport, from coaching roles to administrative positions in women's teams.

Policy and regulation

The ongoing development of women's rugby is likely to influence policy at both the club and national level, as more focus is placed on funding and support for women's teams. As clubs like Sale Sharks improve, they may push for more equitable treatment in terms of resources and media coverage compared to their male counterparts.

Numbers that matter

46-17: The scoreline of Sale's opening match victory against Leicester, highlighting their strong start.
1: The number of wins Sale Sharks achieved last season in the league, indicating the need for improvement.
4: The target for Sale Sharks this season, aiming for a top-four finish in the future.

Definitions and jargon buster

PWR: Premier 15s Rugby, the top level of women's rugby union in England.
Fly-half: A key position in rugby responsible for directing the attack and making tactical decisions.
Red Roses: The nickname for the England women's rugby union team.

How to think about the next steps

Near term (0–4 weeks)

In the coming weeks, Sale Sharks will need to build on their initial success and maintain momentum through consistent performances. Aitchison's role as fly-half will be critical in shaping the team's strategy and execution on the field.

Medium term (1–6 months)

As the season progresses, Sale Sharks should focus on refining their game plan and solidifying team chemistry, particularly among new signings and returning players. Continued investment in training and player development will be essential for long-term success.

Signals to watch

Performance in upcoming matches, particularly against established teams.
Player injuries and fitness levels as the season progresses.
Community engagement and attendance figures at matches.

Practical guidance

Do

Support local women's rugby by attending matches and promoting the sport within your community.
Encourage young girls to participate in rugby and other sports to foster inclusivity and growth in athletics.

Don’t

Underestimate the impact of women's rugby on local communities and the importance of role models like Aitchison.
Neglect the need for continued support and funding for women's sports initiatives.

Checklist

Attend an upcoming Sale Sharks match to experience the excitement of live women's rugby.
Follow Sale Sharks on social media to stay updated on team news and events.
Consider volunteering or supporting local rugby clubs focused on women's teams.

Risks, caveats, and uncertainties

While Sale Sharks are optimistic about their prospects, there remains uncertainty regarding player injuries and team cohesion as the season progresses. Additionally, the overarching competitive landscape of women's rugby means that establishing themselves among the top teams will require consistent effort and adaptation.

Bottom line

Holly Aitchison's commitment to her role as a fly-half is pivotal for Sale Sharks as they aim to improve their standing in women's rugby. With significant signings and a focus on an exciting style of play, the team is poised for a transformative season that could inspire a new generation of rugby fans in the UK.

FAQs

What position does Holly Aitchison play?

Holly Aitchison plays as a fly-half, a critical role in directing the team's play and strategy.

How did Sale Sharks perform last season?

Sale Sharks had a challenging season, finishing last in the league with only one win out of 16 matches.

What are Sale Sharks' goals for this season?

This season, Sale Sharks aim for a top-six finish, with aspirations to challenge for the top four in the following season.