ABSTRACT

Utilizing an international perspective, this chapter explores the evolution of women’s rugby by offering an in-depth review of its inception, expansion, and current success. Focusing on national and international sport organizations, this chapter addresses numerous areas of concern, including leadership challenges, women in governance, and future investment in women’s rugby development. In addition, remarks on related issues of rugby participation and media coverage of women’s rugby are made. Social role theory is used to frame the analysis, revealing the impact of sociological and cultural forces on women’s rugby. By assessing the influence of societal structures and assumptions, the authors offer a foundation for understanding the historically difficult road faced by women in sport. The chapter is supplemented by a leadership profile on Jennifer Gray, a World Rugby – Rugby Services Manager for North America, which emphasizes the importance of women in rugby as the sport grows within the larger sporting landscape.