As today marks International Women’s Day, Huddersfield Giants are once again highlighting their support.

Every year the March 8 is recognised as International Women’s Day to inspire women and celebrate their achievements.

Thousands of events throughout the world focus on the significant change and attitudinal shift in both women’s and society’s thoughts about women’s equality.

Although not traditionally associated with women and girls, Rugby League is one sport undoubtedly leading the way in this shift of attitude.

Huddersfield Giants are organising activities to highlight the growth of the female game locally and nationally at their Super League fixture on Saturday March 16. Members of the England Women’s Rugby League squad will be there on the day to support the event at John Smith’s Stadium.

Girl teams will take to the pitch prior to the Super League clash between Huddersfield Giants and Hull FC (kick off 5.45pm).

Playing as a mini league curtain raiser to the main game these girls will be representing their local school teams and local community clubs.

For many it may be the first time playing in front of a large audience; for some it may just be the start of a promising rugby league future.

Local talent Lucy Eastwood, who is involved in the RFL’s junior England girl’s Rugby League programme, will be pulling on the shirt of local community club St Josephs Sharks and showcasing her skills in the sport.

Tickets are on sale now for the Huddersfield Giants v Hull FC game which takes place at the John Smith’s Stadium on Saturday March 16, kick off 5.00pm. Tickets for under 12’s are free of charge and all other ticket categories are £3 cheaper for supporters purchasing prior to match day.

The highlight of any female international playing career is undoubtedly the Rugby League World Cup. This summer’s Festival of World Cups will include the Women’s World Cup which will be a hugely inspiring event which aims to enthuse the next generation of female Rugby League talent.

Kirklees will host fixtures in the Women’s World Cup Festival in July with games being played at the Tetley’s Stadium in Dewsbury and the LoveRugbyLeague.com Stadium in Batley.

In the build-up to the international tournaments there will be a focus in Kirklees on promoting and developing the game to encourage girls and women in the area to get involved in this exciting sport.

Members of the England women’s team will lead sessions in schools as part of the Mission: Active Kirklees activity programme and local community clubs will be supported to build and offer opportunities for girls to start and continue playing the game.

For more information on local female Rugby League visit www.giantsrl.com/community/women_and_girls or visit www.rlfowc2013.com for information on the Festivals of World Cups.