Women’s rugby in the United States is reaching a pivotal moment with the launch of Women’s Elite Rugby (WER), the country’s first semi-professional league. This initiative aims to elevate the sport by providing a professional environment for players and a sustainable model that allows athletes to dedicate themselves full-time to rugby without having to raise funds or pay to play. The league features six teams: Boston Banshees, New York Exiles, Bay Area, Chicago, Denver Onyx, and Twin Cities Valkyries. Kittery Wagner-Ruiz, a former USA Eagles player and now head coach of the Boston Banshees, is a key figure in this effort.
WER emerges at a time when women’s rugby is gaining popularity in the United States, partly due to the national team’s success and the increasing visibility of athletes like Ilona Maher. The league not only seeks to enhance competitiveness but also to increase visibility and support for women’s rugby, offering an exciting and engaging spectacle for fans.
A STEP TOWARD PROFESSIONALIZATION
Women’s Elite Rugby (WER) represents a significant milestone in the development of women’s rugby in the United States. As the country’s first semi-professional league, WER introduces an innovative model that allows players to earn a salary and fully commit to the sport. This contrasts with the previous system, where athletes had to pay to compete in the Women’s Premier League (WPL). The league’s home-and-away format promises to create a competitive and thrilling environment, with a schedule featuring ten matches before the playoffs in June.
The presence of experienced coaches like Kittery Wagner-Ruiz is crucial to the league’s success. With her background in the U.S. national team and clubs like Beantown RFC, Wagner-Ruiz brings deep game knowledge and a passion for player development. The Boston Banshees, under her leadership, feature talent from the national team and top clubs, reflecting WER’s commitment to sporting excellence. Additionally, the league aims to inspire future generations of players, providing a role model and a platform for women’s rugby to grow in popularity and recognition across the United States.
