What Is The New Women's Elite Rugby League In America?

The United States has launched a new professional women's rugby union league. The league is called Women's Elite Rugby (WER) and the season will kick-off in April 2025, and the season runs for 5 months. There will be over 180 elite level players involved in the league ranging from recent varsity graduates to seasoned World Cup athletes. This league aims to elevate the sport's profile and provide a platform for elite female athletes. It should also be mentioned that it is the first pro-women’s rugby league in America, a result of a player-driven initiative to professionalise the sport in the USA.

League Overview

WER will feature six teams:

•⁠ ⁠Bay Breakers (Bay Area, California)

•⁠ ⁠Boston Banshees (Boston, Massachusetts)

•⁠ ⁠Chicago Tempest (Chicago, Illinois)

•⁠ ⁠Denver Onyx (Denver, Colorado)

•⁠ ⁠New York Exiles (New York, New York)

•⁠ ⁠Twin Cities Gemini (Minneapolis-Saint Paul, Minnesota)

Each team is managed by investor-operators. Backed by private investors, the centralised ownership model of the league ensures that all teams have access to resources and support to ensure that the growth trajectory of the sport on and off the pitch is scalable. Designed to be sustainable and professional, WER is marking a significant advancement for women's rugby in the U.S.

Team Branding and Identity

In January 2025, WER unveiled the names and logos of its six inaugural teams. The branding reflects the league's commitment to high energy, risk-taking, and intensity, aligning with the dynamic nature of rugby.

Historical Context

Before WER, the Women's Premier League Rugby (WPL) served as the top-level women's rugby union competition in the U.S. Founded in 2009, the WPL operated on an amateur model with 10 clubs around America involved. Recognising the need for professionalisation, WER emerged to provide a more sustainable and competitive environment for female rugby players.

Impact and Future Prospects

The establishment of WER is expected to significantly boost the visibility and development of women's rugby in the United States. By offering professional opportunities, the league aims to retain top talent and attract new players, thereby strengthening the national team and the sport's overall growth. Solidifying itself as an integral part of the ecosystem and pipeline of women’s rugby in the US. The US also will be hosting the Women’s rugby world cup in 2033, having a league like WER that provides accessible and sustainable opportunities for top talent to continue to compete and develop will be essential for the growth of the game.

For more information and updates, visit the official Women's Elite Rugby website.

Website - https://www.womenseliterugby.us

Instagram - @rugbyevolved