Coaches and players alike are advocating for a Women’s Rugby Championship, citing the need for more competitive games to foster growth.
With growing support and the game’s increasing popularity, it’s clear that women’s rugby is ripe for change. Coaches and players are now calling for a structured, high-competition environment where the sport’s best can compete year after year.
A Women’s Rugby Championship would deliver multiple benefits for the sport, including regular competition, better player development, and increased visibility. For years, New Zealand’s Black Ferns have been the dominant force in the women’s game, but even they acknowledge the need for more competition to sharpen their skills.
WOMEN’S RUGBY NEEDS STRUCTURE FOR ENHANCED GROWTH
The current state of women’s rugby is one of tremendous potential but limited opportunity. While countries like New Zealand, South Africa, Australia, and Argentina have impressive talent, the lack of a consistent, high-level competition hinders progress. A Rugby Championship featuring these four nations could fill that void, pushing the game forward.
Carlos Spencer, New Zealand’s assistant coach, strongly supports the idea of a structured competition for women’s rugby.
“I think it’s going to happen,” Spencer said. “I think tours like this are going to make that possible. The more we get games like this, the more exposure it gives to the women’s game.”
The more we get games like this, obviously for us as New Zealanders, you as Springboks, to be able to travel. It’s only going to give the game more exposure in the women’s space. It’s absolutely crucial.
“We always talk about finances and the difficulties behind that. But I just think in terms of the women’s space moving forward, this is a great example of what needs to happen moving forward in the women’s game.”
Spencer’s insight highlights a growing consensus: women’s rugby is ready for regular, high-stakes competition.
Speaking in after her team’s defeat to the Springbok Women on Saturday, Black Ferns XV captain Holly Greenway echoed his sentiments, saying, “we just need more rugby. The girls need more rugby.”
A competition like the men’s Rugby Championship would also create natural rivalries between teams like Australia, Argentina, New Zealand, and South Africa, resulting in a series of exciting, high-intensity games.
And with stronger, more frequent competition, countries like Argentina and South Africa can close the gap between themselves and top-tier nations, accelerating their growth, and d also allow players to refine their skills and build team cohesion, leading to better performances on the international stage.
A Women’s Rugby Championship would also provide the perfect platform to showcase the sport’s brightest talent. Regular fixtures would increase fan engagement, media coverage, and sponsorship opportunities, all of which are crucial to women’s rugby’s continued growth.
DO YOU THINK THERE SHOULD BE A WOMEN’S RUGBY CHAMPIONSHIP?
Let us know by leaving a comment below, or send a WhatsApp to 060 011 0211.
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