India is stepping into a new era in sports with the launch of the Rugby Premier League (RPL). This revolutionary initiative, set to debut in 2025, promises to change the landscape of rugby in the country. It will be the world’s first franchised sevens league starting up in June. With the backing of GMR Sports and Rugby India, the RPL will feature city-based franchises, international marquee players, and world-class coaches. Let’s take a closer look at what makes this league so exciting.    A Game-Changing Partnership   The Rugby Premier League is the result of a historic partnership between GMR Sports and Rugby India. GMR Sports, known for its successful ventures in various sports, including cricket and kabaddi, is bringing its expertise to rugby. With a 10-year collaboration, this partnership aims to establish a sustainable, professional rugby ecosystem in India. The league will feature six city-based teams that will showcase top-tier talent from around the world including Mumbai, Delhi, Bengaluru, Hyderabad, Chennai and Bhubaneswar. The teams themselves who will be involved are Bengaluru Bravehearts, Chennai Bulls, Delhi Redz, Hyderabad Heroes, Kalinga Black Tigers and the Mumbai Dreamers.   Coaches: Shaping the Future of Rugby   One of the most exciting aspects of the RPL is its roster of international coaches. These experts will bring a wealth of knowledge to the league, helping to elevate the standard of Indian rugby. Coaches from top rugby nations will work alongside Indian coaches to create a competitive and educational environment for the players. Their experience in international tournaments will be crucial in providing strategic insights and improving the skills of players. Those who are on the coaching agenda are the likes of Mike Friday, USA Men’s 7s head coach, Tim Walsh, Head coach of Australian Women’s 7s winning Gold at Rio, DJ Forbes, former All Blacks captain. That’s a list of only a handful of the calibre that the RPL have. History is going to be created in this league and it is an inspiring opportunity with such influential people involved in coaching teams.   Marquee Players: The Best of Global Rugby   The Rugby Premier League will feature marquee players from around the globe. These players are not just stars but will serve as mentors to Indian players, offering them invaluable insights into the game. The league’s international appeal will help attract rugby fans from across the country and boost the sport’s visibility. Some players have even come out of retirement to come into this league. Here are the marquee players who have been named as being involved in the rugby premier league: Waisea Nacuqu, Joji Nasova, Osadczuk, Joseva Talacolo, Alejandro Castro, Henry Hutchinson, Rosco Specman, Scott Curry, Akuila Rokolisoa, Terry Kennedy, Luciano Rizzoni, Perry Baker. This talent in one league from all around the world is going to incredible to see.   JioStar: Bringing Rugby to Indian Homes   In another exciting development, the RPL has partnered with JioStar as its official broadcast partner. This collaboration will ensure that fans across India can watch the games live, bringing the excitement of world-class rugby directly to their screens. The broadcast partnership will help promote the league and grow rugby’s fanbase in India. Could this be the fastest growing league in rugby and a new spot for the light of the sport?   A New Chapter for Indian Rugby   The Rugby Premier League is more than just a competition; it’s a movement to reshape the future of rugby in India. By bringing together global players, coaches, and media partnerships, the league will raise the standard of rugby in India and inspire future generations of athletes. As the league kicks off, all eyes will be on how it fosters local talent and builds a thriving rugby community across the nation.   With the Rugby Premier League, the future of rugby in India has never looked brighter. What are your thoughts about this new venture of rugby in India?

The Cathay/HSBC Hong Kong Sevens has just been this past weekend, from the 28–30 March 2025, marking a new era for the tournament at the state-of-the-art Kai Tak Stadium in Hong Kong. This 50,000-seat venue, specifically designed for rugby sevens, offers fans an unparalleled experience with features like a fully retractable roof and an in-stadium cooling system. This is the first time that this stadium has held the big event and it did not disappoint. The teams which were competing this weekend in the SVNS: ·       Men's SVNS: New Zealand, Argentina, Australia, Fiji, France, Great Britain, Ireland, Kenya, Spain, South Africa, Uruguay, USA. ·       Women's SVNS: New Zealand, Australia, Brazil, Canada, China, Fiji, France, Great Britain, Ireland, Japan, Spain, USA Top 4 highlights for the men: Champions: Argentina who clinched the title, defeating France 12-7 in a nail-biting final. Argentina are now 12 points clear at the top of the table. Bronze Medal Match: In the 3rd and 4th play off, Australia beat Fiji 22-21 to take bronze. Top 4 highlights for the women: Champions: New Zealand who have been dominated this 2025 series overcoming Australia with a 26-19 win in the final.  Bronze Medal Match: Canada edged out France with a 21-17 victory to claim the bronze medal. ​ Additionally, the Hong Kong China Men's and Women's teams competed in the Melrose Claymores tournament against teams from China, Japan, Kazakhstan, and Thailand. ​Both the Hong Kong women’s and men’s teams took home gold for a home crowd. This is a big achievement for Hong Kong and the future of Hong Kong rugby Beyond rugby, the event featured performances from Cantopop stars RubberBand, Italian singer GALA, DJ Pete Tong, and the British band Kaiser Chiefs, ensuring a vibrant atmosphere throughout the weekend. Even more rugby: Hong Kong 10s 2025 The Hong Kong 10s is a prestigious invitational rugby tournament known for its fast-paced, 10-a-side format. The event is a global phenomena and one many players want to be involved with. Historically and this year, the Hong Kong 10s was held at venues like the Hong Kong Football Club. With the opening of the Kai Tak Sports Park, it's possible that future tournaments, including the 10s, may be hosted at this new facility.​ The winners of Hong Kong 10s men were Tradition YCAC and the women were RKS NZ Legends.  Looking Ahead Both the Hong Kong Sevens and the 10s play pivotal roles in Hong Kong's sports culture, drawing international attention and contributing significantly to the city's vibrant atmosphere.    What’s Next for the Series? You only must wait another week to see non-stop 7s. The next stop of the series is in Singapore as HSBC SVNS returns to the National Stadium on 5-6 April 2025. This will be a decider for many teams of where they will be at the end of the 2025 series. It is all to play for. Next, the final HSBC SVNS stop will take place in Los Angeles, where the World Championship will unfold. The top eight men’s and women’s teams will compete at Dignity Health Sports Park, the future venue of the LA 2028 Olympics, in a winner-takes-all showdown. Additionally, the top four men’s and women’s teams from the HSBC Sevens Challenger will face off against the bottom four teams in the SVNS rankings in a high-stakes promotion and relegation playoff to determine the 2026 lineup.

The Premiership Women’s Rugby (PWR) Final is indeed one of the most highly anticipated events in the rugby calendar. The recent final between Gloucester-Hartpury and Saracens was a clash of titans, with both teams having dominated throughout the season. Fans from both sides filled the stadium, creating an electric atmosphere for an unforgettable finale. A Rivalry Renewed: Gloucester-Hartpury vs Saracens Heading into the PWR Final, both teams were in exceptional form. Gloucester-Hartpury had shown dominance throughout the season, with their attacking flair and strong defence making them one of the most formidable teams in the league. On the other hand, Saracens have been perennial powerhouses of PWR, known for their tactical discipline, physicality, and ability to perform under pressure. Both teams had their strengths, setting the stage for a tactical and physical battle from the first whistle. For Gloucester-Hartpury, this was a chance to claim their third consecutive PWR title. For Saracens, the PWR Final was an opportunity to regain the title they last won in 2022. With these stakes, the match promised high drama and a spectacle worthy of the occasion. The Final: A Tactical and Physical Showdown The match kicked off with immediate intensity. Gloucester-Hartpury wasted no time in showcasing their attacking prowess. Their backline, led by their experienced fly-half, Lleucu George, made quick breaks and probed Saracens’ defensive structure. However, Saracens’ defence was rock solid, with their forwards and backs working in perfect unison to stifle any offensive threat. Throughout the first half, it became clear that this would be a tactical battle. Gloucester-Hartpury’s speed and fluidity in attack clashed with Saracens’ structured, no-nonsense approach to controlling possession. Both teams traded blows in the form of penalties. As the game progressed, the physicality became more apparent, with brutal collisions as both teams threw themselves into every ruck and tackle. Gloucester-Hartpury’s forward pack held their own, but Saracens’ experience in high-pressure situations began to show, as they maintained their composure even when faced with adversity. At halftime, Saracens led 19-15, leaving everything to play for in the next 40 minutes. A Turning Point: Gloucester-Hartpury's Clinical Precision The turning point came in the second half when Gloucester-Hartpury demonstrated why they are back-to-back champions. They scored 19 unanswered points, with Saracens unable to add to their tally. Key players in the final were Maud Muir, who was also named Player of the Match, and Natasha "Mo" Hunt, who led and scored crucial points. The Result: Gloucester-Hartpury Triumph In the end, Gloucester-Hartpury emerged victorious, securing a 34-19 win over Saracens. This victory was a testament to their experience, tactical discipline, and ability to perform under pressure. Despite a valiant effort from Saracens, Gloucester-Hartpury’s clinical precision in key moments made the difference. The win marked another triumph for Gloucester-Hartpury in their storied history, adding to their collection of PWR titles. It also served as a perfect send-off for their coach, Sean Lynn, who has been with the club since 2019 and transformed them into a dominant force. Lynn is set to take over as the head coach of the Wales women's national team. Conclusion: A Final for the Ages The PWR Final between Gloucester-Hartpury and Saracens was a thrilling contest filled with drama, passion, and exceptional rugby. As the season wraps up, rugby fans can reflect on the incredible journey both teams took to reach the final and look forward to next season, where new rivalries will emerge, and the pursuit of glory will continue. For now, attention turns to the Six Nations, Pack 4, and the World Cup. Who will come out on top and be crowned with a World Cup victory? For more insights and detailed match reports, visit the official Premiership Women's Rugby website. Learn more about Sean Lynn's appointment as the new head coach of the Wales women's national rugby team . For upcoming fixtures and events, check out the Women's Six Nations official website . Get information on the upcoming Women's Rugby World Cup .

The Women’s Rugby World Cup is one of the biggest tournaments in women’s sports, showcasing elite-level rugby talent from across the globe. In 2025, the world’s top female rugby players will descend on England for this event. The Road to England 2025: What’s At Stake? The 2025 Women’s Rugby World Cup will be the ninth edition of the prestigious competition, and it’s poised to be a milestone event. England will host the tournament for the second time, following their successful staging of the competition in 2010. As the host nation, England's team, the Red Roses, will be looking to take it one step further and claim the defend the title on home soil. But, they’ll face stiff competition from rugby powerhouses like New Zealand, France, Canada, and the United States, all of whom are eager to claim the top spot. When and Where Will the Tournament Take Place? The 2025 Women's Rugby World Cup is set to be held from the middle of August to the end of September 2025, Matches will be played at various venues across England, including some of the country’s most iconic rugby stadiums. The pool stages will take place in different cities, followed by the knockout rounds, culminating in the grand final at Allianz Stadium . The venues at which games will be hosted are Allianz Stadium, Ashton Gate, Sandy Park, York Community Stadium, Brighton and Hove Albion Stadium, Franklins Garden, Salford Community Stadium, and Sunderland Stadium of Light. Who Will Compete? The tournament will feature 16 of the best teams from around the world, with the teams earning their places through regional qualifiers. Here they are: England  (host nation) New Zealand  (defending champions) France   Canada Australia United States Wales Scotland Ireland Japan South Africa Italy Samoa Fiji Spain Brazil These teams will compete in a round-robin format in the group stages, with the top two from each group progressing to the knockout stages. What Makes the 2025 Tournament Special? The 2025 Women’s Rugby World Cup will be a significant moment in the sport's history for a few key reasons: Growth of Women’s Rugby : The 2025 tournament will continue the trajectory of growth that women’s rugby has seen in recent years. As more visibility and investment flow into the women’s game, the competition becomes fiercer, and the level of play is higher than ever. Expect to see athletes who are breaking records, smashing stereotypes, and pushing the boundaries of what's possible. The Return to England : England’s passionate rugby fanbase is sure to bring an added layer of excitement to the tournament. With home support, the Red Roses  will be under even more pressure to perform, but they’ll also have the advantage of familiarity and enthusiasm from their fans, with also looking to make record breaking crowds to the tournament. Increased Media Coverage : Women’s sports, including rugby, are experiencing a boom in media coverage and attention. The 2025 Women’s Rugby World Cup will be streamed and broadcast to a global audience, allowing fans from all corners of the world to tune in and cheer on their favourite teams. Legacy of Diversity and Inclusion : The sport is becoming more inclusive, with more teams from traditionally underrepresented regions now qualifying. The 2025 tournament is expected to celebrate this diversity and make strides in inspiring future generations of female athletes. How to Watch and Follow the Tournament As we approach 2025, the Women's Rugby World Cup will be accessible to fans through a variety of platforms. BBC Sport  will have exclusive rights to broadcast every game of the 2025 Women’s Rugby World Cup in England allowing fans to follow the tournament from the comfort of their own homes. For those looking to get closer to the action, tickets are available for the event. If you plan to attend, it’s wise to keep an eye out for ticket announcements and venue information. With the huge interest in the tournament, demand is expected to be high. Why Should You Care About the Women’s Rugby World Cup? The Women’s Rugby World Cup is not just a sporting event. It’s a celebration of hard work, determination, and the pursuit of equality in sports. It’s an opportunity for fans to witness history as women’s rugby continues to grow in prominence. This event will showcase incredible athleticism, thrilling gameplay, and the stories of the women who have worked tirelessly to reach the pinnacle of their sport.

As the sporting world heats up, rugby fans down under have plenty to look forward to this weekend. With the official start of Super W,  the women's rugby competition, and the third round of Super Rugby Pacific for the men, the rugby scene in Australia is set to captivate fans across the country and beyond.   Super Rugby Pacific: The Men’s Competition Kicks Off   Super Rugby Pacific, the premier men's rugby competition, has already begun its highly anticipated season. Featuring teams from Australia, New Zealand, Fiji, and the Pacific Islands, the tournament has evolved into a world-class competition that showcases the finest rugby talent from the southern hemisphere.   The 2025 season has seen a lot of excitement and expectation. Clubs like the Queensland Reds, New South Wales Waratahs, and Canberra Brumbies are gearing up for intense battles against their formidable rivals from New Zealand, such as the Crusaders, Hurricanes and Chiefs. With Chiefs already getting to a good start sitting top of the table in round 3 beating the Crusaders and Blues.   What makes Super Rugby Pacific especially thrilling is its mix of youth and experience, as young stars are eager to prove their worth on the big stage alongside seasoned international players. With a dynamic mix of talent from across the Pacific, this competition is not just about rugby; it’s a celebration of culture, passion, and the spirit of the game.   While the teams from New Zealand traditionally have had the upper hand with three out of the top 4 teams coming from New Zealand, Australian teams are steadily improving, showing that they're no longer merely challengers but serious contenders. The Queensland Reds, have been impressively consistent and will be looking to challenge for the top honours this year with coming 5th year last year they will be looking at getting into that top 4.   Super W: The Women’s Competition Kicks Off   Now, shifting our focus to the incredible women of rugby, Super W, the women’s professional rugby competition, will kick off this weekend. Just like its male counterpart, Super W brings together the best rugby talent from across Australia and Fiji. This year in particular being the World Cup Year many of the Australian 7s stars are becoming a part of the Super W teams which will only strengthen the league. The competition not only showcases exceptional skill and athleticism, but it’s also a key platform for the development of women’s rugby in Australia with the inclusion of Fijian in Super W this quality of a team also boosts the platform for rugby.   The Wallaroos,  Australia’s national women’s team, has been the shining light in recent times placing 1st in WXV2 this year. Super W acts as a vital breeding ground for the next generation of talent. As the women’s game continues to grow, Super W will once again take centre stage in inspiring a new wave of female athletes.   The Australian women’s rugby teams have been steadily growing in strength, and with teams like the Canberra Brumbies, Queensland Reds, NSW Waratahs, Fijian Drua and Western Force, fans can expect to see some thrilling, fast-paced action on the field.   More than Just a Game   Both competitions symbolise much more than just rugby matches; they represent a commitment to expanding the sport in Australia and building stronger communities. With greater inclusivity, rugby is becoming more accessible to both men and women, drawing in fans from diverse backgrounds.   With the growing popularity of Super Rugby Pacific and Super W, the future of Australian rugby is looking incredibly bright. Fans can expect to see more thrilling games, bigger rivalries, and rising stars who are ready to take the rugby world by storm.   As we gear up for what promises to be a thrilling rugby season, it’s clear that the excitement surrounding both Super Rugby Pacific and Super W will keep us on the edge of our seats.   Stay tuned – this season promises to deliver unforgettable moments!

The 2024-2025 PWR Women's Rugby season has been nothing short of thrilling, filled with jaw-dropping tackles, incredible tries, and fierce competition. After a shorten season but one with intense battles, only four teams remain to vie for the coveted PWR Women's Rugby Championship. These teams have earned their place in the Final 4, each with their own unique story and impressive performances that have captivated fans throughout the season. As the championship battle approaches, let’s take a closer look at the teams left standing and what fans can expect from this high-stakes final stretch. Gloucester-Hartpury The Gloucester-Hartpury Women’s 2024-2025 rugby season has grown from strength to strength. After a slow start to the campaign, the team has steadily gained momentum. Their dynamic backline has been a key source of attacking flair, while their forwards have worked hard in the set-piece and at the breakdown. Despite early challenges, Gloucester-Hartpury has proven to be a competitive force in the Premier 15s, with only having three losses to date. With their renewed form, they have secured themselves a home semifinal at “Queensholm” against Bristol Bears. They remain favourites of the PWR final and a back-to-back win of the Championship. Who will come out on top, the Bears or the Queens in the semi-final?   Bristol The Bristol Bears Women’s 2024-2025 season has been one of significant growth and resilience. After a somewhat challenging start, the team has steadily found its rhythm under the leadership of captains Amber Reed and Abbie Ward. The bears fought it out with a race to the finish of Top 4 but securing a win in their last league against Harlequins allowed them to secure that final spot.  While they’ve faced tough competition from the league's top teams and a large amount of injuries in the season, they’ve made notable strides in both their attacking and defensive strategies, with a notable emphasis on set-piece dominance. Bristol now has a place in the playoff against Country rivals Gloucester-Hartpury. Harlequins The Harlequins Women’s 2024-2025 season has been a standout year for them as a club. With 10 game son the bounc undefeated Quins have gone from strength to strength this season . The team has continued to build on its strong legacy of attacking rugby, blending explosive speed with clinical precision. With leadership from key figures like captain Jade Konkel and a standout backline featuring Ellie Kildunne and Claudia Pena, the Quins have excelled this year in the competition. Harlequins have shown resilience and are firmly in contention for a making the final but first they have to beat Sarcens, there top rival to be in a chance for the championship title. Saracens The Saracens Women’s 2024-2025 rugby season has been classic Sarcens style with the team continuing to assert its dominance in the Premier 15s. With a well-rounded squad featuring red rose players like Marlie Packer, Zoe Harrison, and Jess Breach. Saracens have been consistently near the top of the table. Their powerful forward pack has been key, excelling in the scrum and breakdown, while their backs have shown impressive speed and accuracy in attack. Throughout the season, Saracens have faced stiff competition but have held their ground as one of the league's strongest teams, positioning themselves as serious contenders for the championship.     Some more exciting news is that the PWR final which is being held on 16th March will be broadcast on BBC Sport. Who will be the teams in the final?

Six Nations 2025: A Thrilling Start to the Championship The 2025 Six Nations has already delivered exciting, high-intensity rugby, with plenty of drama and some unexpected results in the first two rounds. Let’s look at the key results and moments in round 1 and 2 of the Six Nations. Round 1: A Riveting Start Ireland vs. England (27-22) Ireland started their Six Nations campaign well with a tight win against England in Dublin. At the break England were leading Ireland 10-5. Nevertheless, in the 56th minute the 2024 Championship winner took the lead and had a very dominant final quarter. However, both Tom Curry and Tommy Freeman scored late tries for England which secured the bonus point. Scotland vs. Italy (31-19) A convincing first half for Scotland in their exchange with Italy. They needed to make sure they kept their foot on the gas in the second half and that is exactly what they did. Huw Jones bagged himself a hat-trick. Italy had passages of play which looked positive and are coming into this Six Nations with a fire in their belly to make an upset. But in this round 1 encounter Scotland took this victory. France vs. Wales (43-0) France did not have their best performance; however, they were still able to keep the visiting team to 0 and secure a comfortable bonus point win. Wales, however, never gave up and kept fighting until the end but became unstuck when entering France 22. What is Frances’ potential to come, and will Wales be able to regroup and go again? Round 2: The Tournament Heats Up Italy vs Wales (22-15) This game came down to the wire with conditions proved very difficult throughout the game, but Italy were able to take control and take the win with Tommaso Allan kicking 17 out of the 22 points for Italy. England vs. France (26-25) Another game of the weekend where it was all to play for in the last 5 minutes and the last play brought England to victory. A couple of new starting players in England’s line up rose to the occasion, and with France’s Ntamack missing at 10, it allowed England to light up Twickenham. Whirlwind 80 minutes of rugby with both teams having periods of dominance. When all looked lost for England, a last-minute Elliott Daly try sealed a famous victory for the home side with a final kick slotted by Fin Smith allowing the home team to take a 1 point win. Ireland vs. Scotland (32-18) Ireland were back to their usual ways against Scotland. The game began with a slow start due to multiple injuries, however, the game settled and Prendergast pulling the strings from fly half led them to victory in Dublin. Can anyone stop Ireland in their match towards a grand slam? Looking Ahead With two rounds in the books, the Six Nations 2025 remains wide open. Ireland sits atop the table, but it is still all to play for in the top spots. The next rounds will be pivotal as teams refine their strategies and battle it out for supremacy. The Six Nations always delivers drama, and 2025 looks set to be no different. Make sure to tune in for what promises to be a thrilling tournament as the stakes get higher with each passing week!

Are you finishing school or university and wondering what to do next? Have you considered taking your rugby boots on an adventure? For rugby enthusiasts, a gap year could be more than just a break from studies; it could be the opportunity of a lifetime to play the sport you love in a new and exciting environment. ​ Why Rugby Abroad? Rugby isn’t just a game; it’s a global community. Imagine running onto the pitch in the stunning landscapes of Australia Canada or New Zealand and competing alongside players from different cultures, and developing your skills in one of the sport’s top regions. Whether you’re looking to sharpen your game, experience a new culture, or simply immerse yourself in rugby, heading overseas can open doors both on and off the field.   Perfect for University Graduates A gap year just for school leavers. If you’re graduating from university and feeling unsure about jumping straight into the 9-to-5 grind, playing rugby abroad can be a great way to bridge the gap between education and the working world. You’ll gain valuable life experience, build your confidence, and create a unique story that stands out on a CV—all while staying active and doing something you’re passionate about.   How Sport Exchange Can Help At Sport Exchange we are dedicated to connecting players with rugby clubs around the world. Whether you’re a forward or a back, an amateur or played internationally, we’ve successfully placed countless players with clubs that suit their level and goals. With strong links to rugby organisations in countries like Australia and New Zealand, we ensure a seamless transition for players, covering essentials like accommodation, work opportunities, and welfare support. All you need to do is focus on playing the game you love.   What Are the Benefits? Skill Development: Train and play in countries renowned for their rugby excellence. Networking: Build connections within the global rugby community. Personal Growth: Gain independence, cultural awareness, and unforgettable memories. Career Opportunities: Enhance your CV with international experience that shows initiative and determination.   Ready to Take the Leap? If you’re a rugby player dreaming of a new adventure, Sport Exchange here to make it happen. Whether it’s for a season or an entire year, playing rugby abroad is an experience that will challenge you, inspire you, and leave you with lifelong friendships. Don’t let this opportunity pass you by. Get in touch with Sport Exchange today and find out how we can help make your rugby gap year a reality. Your next big match could be in the Southern Hemisphere!

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

Women’s rugby is experiencing an exciting period of growth and recognition globally. Among the key initiatives driving this expansion is the Celtic Women’s Rugby Championship, a competition that celebrates the prowess, determination, and talent of female rugby players from the Celtic nations—Ireland, Scotland and Wales. This blog will dive into the history, significance, and the growing impact of the Celtic Women’s Rugby Championship in the world of women’s rugby. What is the Celtic Women’s Rugby Championship? The Celtic Women’s Rugby Championship is an annual tournament that brings together the best women’s rugby teams and players from: Ireland, Scotland and Wales. The competition was created to provide a platform for the women’s game in these countries, offering a competitive environment where female athletes can showcase their skills, passion, and determination. Though similar in spirit to the men’s Six Nations Championship, the Celtic Women’s Rugby Championship has its own unique place in the women’s rugby calendar. It serves as a vital fixture in developing female players, fostering international competition, and growing the profile of women’s rugby on both a domestic and global scale. The Origins of the Celtic Women’s Rugby Championship The Celtic Challenge is a very new cross-border women's rugby union competition that will be held annually, launched in 2023. The format of the competition looks at a double round robin between six teams, two from each participating union. Although the championship when it first start was initially smaller and less formalized, it has since evolved into one of the premier tournaments for women’s rugby in Europe. The Teams and Format The Celtic Women’s Rugby Championship features teams from the following nations:  Ireland – Clovers and Wolfhounds  Scotland – Edinburgh and Glasgow Warriors  Wales – Bython Thunders and Gwalia Lightning Each of these teams fields a women’s rugby team composed of the top female players selected from their respective clubs, universities, and academies. The competition has grown in stature and importance with each team bringing a combination of experienced players and emerging talent. Why the Celtic Women’s Rugby Championship Matters 1. Promoting Equality in Rugby Historically, women’s rugby has often been overshadowed by its male counterpart. However, tournaments like the Celtic Women’s Rugby Championship help bridge that gap by providing women’s rugby with a stage to shine. The visibility it gives to female athletes not only raises awareness but also inspires the next generation of young girls to get involved in the sport. By providing equal opportunities for competition, it is helping to level the playing field for women’s rugby in the Celtic nations and beyond. It serves as a powerful reminder that women’s rugby is a force to be reckoned with. 2. Developing Talent for International Success The Celtic Women’s Rugby Championship is an essential proving ground for young and emerging players. Many of the athletes participating in the CWRC are those who are on the cusp of representing their countries at the senior international level. The competition allows them to gain invaluable experience, learn from more seasoned players, and compete against some of the best women’s teams in Europe. 3. Fostering Rivalries and Camaraderie The Celtic nations are known for their fierce sporting rivalries, and these rivalries extend to women’s rugby. However, the Celtic Women’s Rugby Championship is not just about competition—it also fosters camaraderie between the teams. Whether it's on the pitch or off, the respect among players from different nations strengthens the bonds within the women’s rugby community. Many of the players from different countries have been teammates at club level or have competed together in other regional and international tournaments. 4. Increasing Popularity and Recognition of Women’s Rugby In recent years, there has been a significant push to elevate the profile of women’s rugby. The Celtic Women’s Rugby Championship plays an important role in this movement, serving as one of the key competitions to promote the women’s game in Europe and around the world. The increased visibility of the tournament leads to more media coverage being shown on the BBC, larger audiences, and more sponsors, which are crucial for the long-term growth of women’s rugby. In fact, some of the matches in the CWRC have garnered impressive television ratings, and the championship itself is becoming a fixture in the rugby calendar. As more people tune in to watch the matches, the sport continues to grow and inspire future generations of female rugby players. The Future of the Celtic Women’s Rugby Championship The future of the Celtic Women’s Rugby Championship is undoubtedly bright. With the increasing interest in women’s sports and the growing investment in women’s rugby, we can expect the CWRC to continue to evolve and expand. As the competition gains more traction, we may see more nations joining, or we could see the development of a more formalised league structure. There’s also potential for increased professionalization, including more support for players in terms of training, sponsorship, and career development. In addition, the continued rise of women's rugby globally, with the Women’s Rugby World Cup and Six Nations Championship growing in prominence, will certainly fuel further interest in the CWRC. Conclusion The Celtic Women’s Rugby Championship is much more than just a tournament; it’s a celebration of women’s rugby in its purest form. By providing the best female players from Ireland, Scotland and Wales, with a competitive, high-level platform, it serves as both a proving ground and a launchpad for the future stars of the women’s game. With its growing visibility, increasing support, and passionate athletes, the CWRC is helping shape the future of women’s rugby and inspire young girls around the world to pick up a rugby ball and follow their dreams. This is just the beginning for women’s rugby, and the Celtic Women’s Rugby Championship is sure to play a significant role