Personal trainer Nicole trying hard in fundraising mission

The fitness instructor, of Thornton, has taken on the challenge of raising money for the rugby club – which recently reformed its ladies team – to help it buy new, modern gym equipment and physio supplies.

Nicole is a strength and conditioning coach at the club, working with the men’s first team, and some of the ladies team.

Fleetwood Rugby Club, which has an 86 year history in the port, aims to be a community club for all and is financially self-reliant, but club officials say it is in desperate need of updated equipment, and its community members can only do so much.

Nicole said: “Being able to put in place training methods to reduce risk of injuries, while improving performance alongside tactical coaching, plays a huge part of rugby success.

“Access to strength and conditioning training for athletic performance is important for any athlete or team. This leads to decreases in injury, increase in speed, agility, strength and power – which are all essential in rugby union.”

Nicole – also a co-founder of Fylde Coast Weightlifting Club – has decided to use her strength to help the cause, as well as organising other events. Ten per cent of the money she raises will go to Cancer Research.

There will also be a wakeboarding fund day at Blackpool Wake Park in late spring.

She said: “Since I coach weightlifting and powerlifting, the girls from the club have helped me with this idea of getting sponsored in pounds, for lifting pounds. It will be on one weightlifting session and will be my total from the three lifts performed in a competition combined – bench press, squat and deadlift. Anyone can get involved in the £s for lbs event. And if they don’t feel confident in all lifts, they can pick one or two they prefer.

“All donations would be appreciated, no matter how small and businesses are welcome to get involved with the fundraising.”

To support Nicole and the rugby club with their efforts, visit www.justgiving.com/crowdfunding/fleetwoodrugbyclubfundraising