IRFU Awards 37 Central Contracts Advancing Women's Rugby in Ireland

The Women's Rugby World Cup 2025 is inspiring a new generation of female rugby players, particularly in Ireland, where youth participation has surged with a 16% increase in games and expanded access through new school programs and age brackets. The Irish Rugby Football Union has also made a significant investment by awarding 37 central contracts in its Women's High Performance Programme, reflecting growing professional opportunities. Historic moments continue to shape women's rugby, such as the first mother and daughter duo, Keli and Leah Morris, playing together in the top Women’s Super League, highlighting the sport's expanding family and community connections. Meanwhile, key matches in the World Cup and other international rugby competitions showcase intense head-to-head battles, like those between veteran players Ardie Savea and Pieter-Steph du Toit, emphasizing the blend of experience and youthful talent defining the sport's current landscape. Live broadcasts of the Women's Rugby World Cup matches, such as England versus Australia, are accessible on major networks like BBC Two, further increasing the sport's visibility and fan engagement. These developments collectively signal both the growth and deepening competitiveness of women's rugby on the global stage.