A WOMAN rugby enthusiast is stepping down from coaching and managing at Tavistock Rugby Club.

Inspirational figure Mhairi McCall has been a motivating force at the club for almost ten years and was responsible for creating the girls' section in 2005, which under her guidance has gone from strength to strength.

Mhairi told the Times: 'My daughter, Kirsty, who has since gone to university in Scotland, played a huge role in motivating me to take such a role within the club. The main reason for my withdrawal of roles is down to family commitments.'

Kirsty has been a great example of the success of the girls' club. She has played for the U18s Scottish national side for three years starting in 2006, and was also selected for the U20s side in 2010.

The reason for Mhairi's withdrawal of roles is primarily down to family commitments.

Secretary of Tavistock Rugby Club Jeff Lawson said: 'Mhairi is a driven, approachable woman, not fazed by anything.

'She developed the girls' side from nothing — without her it would have been a different story. She was also a great volunteer, always involved in fundraising.'

Not only was Mhairi the founder of the girls' section, but she also managed the junior side, and arranged social nights and tours.

Elly Wallace, who was coached by Mhairi McCall in 2009, said 'She was such a supportive and enthusiastic coach.

'I don't think half as many girls would have been confident enough to get involved without her.'

Despite withdrawing from managing and coaching, she will still be part of the club and will also still be acting as a Devon girls' rugby officer.

All at the club expressed thanks to Mhairi McCall for everything she has done, and Mhairi in turn wished the club continued success.