In the small Surrey town of Reigate women’s lacrosse is booming. Reigate Priory Dragonflies, formed just 9 months ago has attracted over 50 playing members, largely drawn from local school, Dunottar and nearby Caterham School. The

Dragonflies have made their home at the historic Reigate Priory cricket ground . A picturesque ground at the foot of the North Downs . Reigate are in the vanguard of a new generation of clubs; Cobham to the west and Sevenoaks to the east , These are also new clubs based largely on youth membership. However, the Dragonflies are not just about juniors, when the Invicta League was formed in Kent, Reigate grabbed the chance to join. Susie Taylor leads the adult team.

Once upon a time, back in the 30’s Reigate supported the strongest club in the world; Reigate Ladies . They were led by Val Straker , then captain of England and secretary of the AELLA . In later years the club fell into decline and folded in the 90’s . Now a new generation of players are taking up the baton to reclaim past glories. Reigate’s ethos is to build on an enthusiastic youth membership. That enthusiasm combined with strong parental support and a few wise old heads should provide the bedrock for future development. Already , signs of growth are emerging. Royal Alexandra and Albert School, also in Reigate have taken up the game and local prep schools are showing interest. The enthusiasm has not gone unnoticed by commercial concerns. Three companies have so far been brought in as sponsors, all keen to foster sport amongst the young.

All ages and abilities are welcome.

Please contact  rplcdragonlflies@yahoo.co.uk for information on how to join.

Or go to www.reigatelacrosse.co.uk  

The Dragonflies are holding a youth tournament in May and

all clubs are welcome to enter. Contact us for further

information.

- Ray Wood, Reigate Priory Lacrosse Club

Reigate Juniors.