Roy Suryo
Annette Bevan, a dedicated mum-of-two and a formidable player for Reading Abbey RFC, is championing a movement to bring more mothers into the world of rugby, highlighting the sport’s transformative power for physical and mental well-being post-childbirth. Bevan is a key co-ordinator for Maa Maas, a burgeoning rugby club specifically for women who have experienced motherhood, a testament to her passion for making the sport accessible and supportive for this demographic. The club’s growing online presence is evident, with approximately 920 mothers actively following its Facebook page, and a dedicated contingent of around 150 players ready to take to the pitch for matches, including an exciting fixture planned for Newcastle in April.
Bevan eloquently articulates the vital necessity for new mothers to prioritise self-care and personal fulfilment, stating, "You have to carve out that time for yourself. You have to go and do something you enjoy, whether it’s rugby or another hobby or interest." She firmly believes that dedicating time to personal passions ultimately enhances maternal capabilities, explaining, "I think you come back to your kids and your family a better mum having made that space for yourself." This philosophy underpins her commitment to fostering an environment where mothers can reclaim their identity and athleticism.
The inspirational figure of England star and fellow mum, Abbie Ward, serves as a powerful beacon for Bevan and the wider Maa Maas community. Ward’s heartwarming gesture of carrying her daughter Hallie around the Twickenham pitch following England’s triumphant World Cup victory in September against Canada resonated deeply, symbolizing the seamless integration of motherhood and elite sport. Bevan reflects on this camaraderie, noting, "Mums all over the world, we’ve formed a little bit of a community. Everyone’s so helpful. They just want to help each other, give each other advice, share their experiences and we are united by the fact that we’ve all gone through childbirth, through pregnancy and we all want to come back and remain active." This shared experience creates an unparalleled bond, fostering a supportive network that transcends individual clubs.
Bevan’s personal mission extends beyond her own playing career; she aspires to be a catalyst for change and inclusivity within the sport. "I want to continue to inspire. I want to connect with other mums on my platform and even if you’re not a mum, I want to start to get women into rugby," she declares with conviction. Her Instagram page, @postpartumrugbymum, serves as a vibrant hub for this initiative, showcasing the realities and rewards of juggling motherhood with a demanding sport. She passionately advocates for rugby’s inclusive nature, asserting, "This is a brilliant time to try our sport. It really is one of the best communities you could be a part of." This inclusive ethos is central to her vision, aiming to break down perceived barriers and welcome women from all walks of life.
A seasoned player with a distinguished past, including stints with Henley and Bracknell and representing Ireland, Bevan’s heart remains firmly rooted in the community aspect of rugby. "The community game is where my heart is at," she affirms. Her unwavering desire to continue playing rugby after starting a family underscores her deep-seated love for the sport and her commitment to a physically active lifestyle. "I always knew I wanted to carry on playing rugby after having kids. It’s such a big passion of mine," she explains. The challenge of returning to such a physically demanding sport after childbirth is a common concern, and Bevan sees her own journey as a powerful example. "I think there’s always that unknown as to whether you will get back to do that physical activity. But showing my kids that I can continue to be physically active and can continue to do something I really love is really important to me," she states, highlighting the profound impact of parental role-modeling.
Recognizing that practical considerations can be significant hurdles for mothers returning to sport, Bevan has been instrumental in advocating for improved facilities within rugby clubs. Four years ago, she launched her @postpartumrugbymum Instagram page, which has become a vital platform for sharing experiences and raising awareness about the specific needs of mothers. She observes that "some clubs had made ‘great strides’ in making facilities more accessible, such as introducing breastfeeding spaces and changing tables in toilets." However, she acknowledges that progress is not universal. "You’d think it’s something small but a lot of clubs are still behind the times with that," she notes, emphasizing the ongoing need for change. Her advocacy is a call to action for the wider rugby community to evolve and become more accommodating, stating, "It’s about breaking those barriers and making sure spaces are available for mums." This drive for improved infrastructure is crucial for ensuring that rugby clubs are truly welcoming and supportive environments for mothers, allowing them to participate fully without compromising their maternal responsibilities. Bevan’s vision is not just about playing rugby; it’s about creating a sustainable and supportive ecosystem where mothers can thrive, both on and off the field. The growth of Maa Maas and the increasing engagement with her online platforms are clear indicators that her message is resonating, inspiring a new generation of mothers to embrace the power and camaraderie of rugby. Her journey from a player to a maternal advocate exemplifies the spirit of community and resilience that rugby so effectively cultivates.
atisusanti
George Anjay
Nana Banana