Ireland Aims to Make History in Women’s Rugby World Cup
As Ireland prepares to return to the Women’s Rugby World Cup for the first time in eight years, team member Cliodhna Moloney emphasizes the goal of creating a lasting impact on Irish women’s rugby. After missing qualification for the 2022 tournament, the team is optimistic following a commendable third-place finish in the recent Six Nations tournament.
Commitment to Growth
The Irish Rugby Football Union (IRFU) has made the development of women’s rugby a top priority. Moloney stated, “The overall plan and strategy is about growing the game in Ireland.” This ethos underscores their participation in the World Cup, where they aim not just for victory, but to inspire future generations of female rugby players.
Building a Legacy
Moloney highlighted the team’s desire to leverage their World Cup experience to foster increased support for women’s rugby in Ireland. “When we travel over to England, the lucky ones that get to go, we want to bring the support with us but we also want to leave a legacy from this World Cup,” she noted. This reflects a collective aspiration to enhance public interest and encourage participation in women’s rugby.
Positive Developments Under New Leadership
Moloney, who plays for Exeter Chiefs and has been a part of the national team since 2015, previously voiced criticisms regarding the IRFU’s approach to women’s rugby, resulting in her temporary removal from the squad. However, with the appointment of head coach Scott Bemand in 2023, she has recognized significant improvements in the program. His leadership helped to rekindle her involvement with the team during the 2024 Six Nations, showcasing a renewed focus on the women’s game.
A Pivotal Moment for Women’s Rugby
Reflecting on the potential of the World Cup, Moloney emphasized its importance in propelling the women’s game forward. She stated, “It’s been thrown around a lot, like a game-changing moment for women’s rugby… I do really think with the amount of support that’s in and around this part of the world for women’s rugby, it’ll be a point in time we’ll look back on and say ‘that’s where the tide turned.’
Upcoming Matches and Broadcast Information
Ireland will host Scotland in Cork on Saturday and face Canada in Belfast on August 9 as part of their World Cup preparations. Both matches will be broadcast live on the BBC, providing a platform for fans to rally behind the team as they embark on this important journey.
