Ulster CEO Anticipates Dramatic Growth in Irish Women's Rugby

Ulster Rugby chief executive Hugh McCaughey has forecasted a transformative era for women's rugby in Ireland, predicting the sport will be "unrecognizable" within the next three to five years. McCaughey's comments reflect the swift development and growing prominence of the women's game, which is a key focus of the Irish Rugby Football Union's (IRFU) recent strategic plan.

The IRFU’s four-year strategic plan, unveiled in June, places significant emphasis on advancing women's rugby, with a notable goal of establishing four fully contracted provincial teams. McCaughey is optimistic about achieving this objective within the proposed timeframe, citing the rapid progress already being made.

"We're at the start of a really rapid journey, and if you look already, women's rugby is one of if not the fastest-growing sports on this island," McCaughey stated. "Irish rugby has released its strategy with the view to have a contracted team by 2026-27, so we're starting to see that really accelerate."

The strategic plan is designed to elevate the profile and standard of women's rugby across Ireland, with the ambition to place it at the forefront of the sport's evolution. This includes the development of robust, fully supported provincial teams that will contribute to the overall growth and competitiveness of the game.

McCaughey’s vision underscores a commitment to not only enhancing the visibility of women’s rugby but also ensuring its long-term sustainability and success. The next few years are set to be pivotal as Irish rugby moves forward with these ambitious plans, aiming to secure a leading position on the global stage for women’s rugby.