Women’s Elite Rugby Launches Inaugural Season Across U.S.

The inaugural season of Women's Elite Rugby (WER) kicks off this weekend, featuring the Boston Banshees against the New York Exiles, with all matches available for free on DAZN. WER, born from six top clubs of the former Women's Premier League, aims to provide a professional platform for women athletes in the U.S., addressing the challenges of balancing full-time jobs and rugby commitments. The league is intentionally launching as players prepare for the 2025 Rugby World Cup in England, which is expected to draw record attendance and media attention, further promoting women's rugby. Key figures, such as Kittery Wagner Ruiz, emphasize the importance of professionalization in bridging the gap with international standards. The league is funded by private investors and aims to eliminate out-of-pocket costs for players, creating a sustainable environment for growth. With significant events on the horizon, 2025 is poised to be a landmark year for women's rugby worldwide.