Get to Know Everything About Women’s Rugby and Its Stars

Learn who the biggest stars of women’s rugby are.

This sport combines strength, strategy, and skill in a spectacle that challenges and inspires new generations of athletes.

In recent years, women’s competitions have reached unprecedented levels of visibility, with televised broadcasts and packed stadiums.

Are you ready to meet the stars who have made women’s rugby one of the fastest-growing sports in the world?

How Women Transformed World Rugby

Women’s rugby has undergone a remarkable evolution over the past decades, gaining global recognition.

Once seen as a men’s sport, female athletes have proven to be just as dynamic and competitive. Moreover, inclusion in major events like the Olympics boosted its visibility, opening doors to more investment and development worldwide.

Players’ dedication and growing support from unions have been essential to this transformation. The number of women playing rugby has risen dramatically, creating a solid foundation for the future.

Women’s rugby now features professional leagues and high-level international competitions. The technical and tactical quality of play has improved drastically, attracting new fans.

Captains Who Inspire Their Teams

Captains in women’s rugby are more than on-field leaders; they are pillars of strength and inspiration. Their influence goes beyond tactics and strategy.

They motivate their teammates, keep everyone calm under pressure, and embody their team’s values.

Marlie Packer (England)

Marlie Packer is a relentless flanker and the current captain of England. Her consistent performance and leadership earned her the World Rugby Women’s 15s Player of the Year award in 2023.

Packer led the Red Roses to major triumphs, such as the inaugural WXV1 in 2023 and the Six Nations Grand Slam in 2024. She is known for her direct communication and as one of the top try-scorers among England’s forwards.

Ruahei Demant (New Zealand)

Ruahei Demant is the talented fly-half and captain of New Zealand’s legendary Black Ferns. Her game vision and precision won her the World Rugby Women’s 15s Player of the Year award in 2022.

Demant played a pivotal role in leading the Black Ferns to victory at the 2022 Rugby World Cup on home soil. Her composure under pressure and ability to orchestrate attacks are truly admirable. She is especially inspiring for overcoming three knee surgeries to reach the top.

Sophie de Goede (Canada)

Young Sophie de Goede has quickly become a respected captain on the global women’s rugby stage. Her versatility impresses—she excels both in the back row and second row.

Sophie led Canada to a historic win over the Black Ferns and was named to the Rugby World Cup 2022 Dream Team.

Coming from a family with a strong Canadian rugby tradition, her tactical intelligence and kicking skills mark her as a complete player and a promising leader.

Players Who Became Legends

Some athletes have left unforgettable marks on women’s rugby history, becoming true legends. They not only achieved on-field success but also helped shape the sport.

Maggie Alphonsi (England)

Maggie Alphonsi, renowned for her strength, is one of English women’s rugby’s most revered legends. She was a key figure in England’s 2014 Rugby World Cup victory—a milestone for the Red Roses.

Alphonsi collected numerous titles, including seven consecutive Six Nations championships.

Her influence extends off the field: she was the first woman to receive the Pat Marshall Award and became a respected commentator, opening media opportunities for former players.

Farah Palmer (New Zealand)

Farah Palmer is an undeniable icon of New Zealand and world women’s rugby. As captain of the Black Ferns, she led the team to three consecutive Rugby World Cup titles (1998, 2002, 2006), an impressive feat.

In recognition of her contributions, New Zealand’s top women’s provincial tournament was named the Farah Palmer Cup.

Beyond her successful playing career, Palmer was the first woman appointed to the New Zealand Rugby board and remains a vocal advocate for women’s sport.

Portia Woodman-Wickliffe (New Zealand)

Portia Woodman-Wickliffe is one of the most electrifying and decisive players in women’s rugby. She holds the record for most tries scored in Rugby World Cups.

Her career is filled with historic achievements, including multiple Olympic gold medals in rugby sevens (2020, 2024) and Rugby World Cup XV titles (2017, 2022).

Woodman-Wickliffe was named World Rugby Player of the Year in both sevens and 15s, recognized for her speed and try-scoring instinct.

New Talents to Watch

The future of women’s rugby shines brightly, driven by a new generation of exceptional talents. These young athletes are raising the game with their skills and athleticism. Among them are:

Abby Dow (England)

Abby Dow is an English winger whose speed and agility make her one of the most exciting players to watch. Her ability to score spectacular long-range tries stands out.

Abby made an inspiring return from injury, shining at the 2022 Rugby World Cup, where her semifinal try was named World Rugby’s Try of the Year. With her youth and talent, she already poses a constant threat to opposing defenses and has a promising future ahead.

Gabrielle Vernier (France)

Gabrielle Vernier is a French center who has become a key figure in France’s attack. She combines physical power with excellent passing and offload skills, frequently breaking through defensive lines.

Vernier was named 2023 Women’s Six Nations Player of the Tournament and included in the 2022 Rugby World Cup Dream Team. Her game vision and on-field communication make her a smart and essential player for France’s strategy.

Alex Matthews (England)

Alex Matthews is a versatile and highly consistent player for England, performing effectively both in the back row and second row. Her strength and mobility, coupled with sharp tactical intelligence, make her valuable in diverse situations.

Alex was a world champion in 2014 and won an Olympic bronze medal in rugby sevens at Tokyo 2020. Her breakdown skills stand out, making her a reliable and essential member of England’s deep squad.

Top Women’s Rugby Leagues

National leagues are the backbone of women’s rugby, driving its growth. They provide a stage for talent and elevate the sport’s level.

Notable leagues in women’s rugby:

• Allianz Premier 15s (England)
• Elite 1 Féminine (France)
• Super Rugby Aupiki (New Zealand)
• Super W (Australia)

These leagues not only prepare players for national teams but also create sustainable careers. Their visibility grows each season, attracting more sponsors and audiences.

Conclusion

The sport continues to evolve, with stronger leagues and greater global visibility. Investment in women’s rugby is increasing, creating more opportunities for athletes.

The quality of play keeps rising, offering an exciting spectacle for fans. The future of women’s rugby is promising and full of potential.