Ainsworth ready for first home run-out

Glasgow Warriors vice-captain Ceitidh Ainsworth is enjoying all the battles that the 2024/25 Celtic Challenge is bringing her way, as the fly-half and her team-mates prepare for their opening home match of the new campaign against the Wolfhounds at Scotstoun.

The prospect of a run-out at home is one that is motivating the Stirling County product, after three away matches to start the competition prior to Saturday’s postponed clash with the Clovers.

The fly-half is one of the returning players that has a full season of Celtic Challenge under her wing, making her a good mentor for those new additions to this year’s squad.

“It’s been good to come back to the squad and play with some familiar faces from last year but also it’s been great getting some new people in, learning how they all play and just joining forces together” said Ainsworth.

“The training sessions have been positive, with high intensity, everyone is putting their hardest work in, and everyone wants to improve.”

She also highlighted the speed with which the squad has gelled in 2024/25, underlining areas where the team has grown since game one as she analysed the team’s matches to date.

Counting down until a first home hit-out 👊

Bring the noise for your Warriors in the Celtic Challenge – tickets are on sale now! https://t.co/0rpFct4n3k #WhateverItTakes ⚔️🛡️ pic.twitter.com/zSY5LE7Pu3

— Glasgow Warriors (@GlasgowWarriors) January 21, 2025

“We’re a lot closer as a group than we were last year,” said Ainsworth.

“We’re all fighting for that win even more and we are nearly there.

“Our attack has come together a lot more, we are getting the ball out wide finding the spaces and at the same time our defence has got stronger.”

The fly-half also spoke from her position within the leadership group as vice-captain, as she looks to help drive her team towards that first victory.

“We just want to continue to improve,” said Ainsworth.

“There has been massive development already from the first session and we are so close to getting that win.

“We know that we need to keep pushing hard and get the points on the board.”

The 21-year-old is also keenly looking forward to being at home for the first time during this season, and explained how that the squad will be using the crowd to give them an extra boost.

“We’re really looking forward to it,” she said.

“It will be so good having all the support here. We had the first few games away and had some travelling support but there’s nothing like playing at home, so hopefully we get loads of people down to cheer us on!”