Sarah Hunter Inspires Future Female Coaches at Grassroots Forum

In anticipation of the Women’s Rugby World Cup 2025, ChildFund Rugby hosted the 'Grassroots to Global' forum in Newcastle upon Tyne, England, gathering female leaders from the local rugby community. The two-day event, which took place at Novocastrians RFC, marked an important initiative aimed at increasing female participation and leadership within rugby, aligning with World Rugby’s strategic goal to enhance opportunities for women in the sport.

The forum brought together 50 participants, including players, coaches, match officials, and community leaders, all committed to fostering a more inclusive environment within rugby. Sarah Hunter CBE, England’s most capped rugby player, played a pivotal role in the forum, returning to her first club to share her extensive experience and insights into the sport. 'To return to Novocastrians RFC, my first club, to coach and inspire rugby leaders of the future has been a real honour,' Hunter remarked. Her involvement included conducting a masterclass aimed at empowering young female players and coaches, emphasizing the need for visible role models in the sport.

The forum is a part of a larger series held in over 25 countries, designed to support women's rugby at various levels. This initiative aims not only to elevate female coaching but also to create robust pathways for women aspiring to take on leadership roles in rugby. The collaboration between ChildFund Rugby and Gallagher, which sponsors the Gallagher High Performance Academy, underscores a shared commitment to nurturing female talent in rugby. Christopher Mead, Chief Marketing Officer at Gallagher, noted, 'Driving change on and off the field starts with building strong networks and creating clear pathways for women in coaching and leadership roles.'

The Grassroots to Global initiative highlights the significance of female coaches in enhancing participation rates among women and girls in rugby. Research shows that female coaches can positively influence the retention of female players in the sport. According to a 2022 report by the Women’s Sports Foundation, gender diversity in coaching positions correlates with increased participation rates among female athletes.

In addition to coaching development, the forum facilitated discussions around the barriers women face in rugby leadership, providing a platform for participants to create actionable plans for fostering gender inclusion in their respective communities. Sally Horrox, Chief of Women’s Rugby at World Rugby, emphasized the initiative's role in establishing a more competitive women’s game, stating, 'The partnership with Gallagher’s High Performance Academy is helping us to accelerate this progress and together we are laying the foundations for a more inclusive and competitive women’s game.'

As the Women’s Rugby World Cup 2025 approaches, initiatives like the Grassroots to Global forum are vital for ensuring that the next generation of female athletes and coaches are equipped with the skills, confidence, and networks necessary to thrive in rugby. Hunter’s return to Novocastrians RFC serves as a powerful reminder of the impact experienced players can have on the future of the sport. The ongoing support from organizations such as ChildFund Rugby and Gallagher is crucial for sustaining momentum in the push for gender equality in rugby and beyond. With the current trajectory, the hope is to achieve a target of 40 percent female coaches in the upcoming tournament, further solidifying the foundation for future generations of women in rugby.