Women’s Rugby Experiences Surge in Popularity as York Prepares for 2025 World Cup

A club president has stated that women’s rugby is “booming,” with an increase in player registrations ahead of the 2025 World Cup in England. This week, the University of York squad received an invitation to a launch event, preceding the city’s role as a host for six matches of the tournament next summer. During the event, students participated in a boat trip along the River Ouse to Clifford’s Tower alongside professional players. Jennifer Cox-Kersley, the university’s women’s president, commented on the opening of the ticket application window, stating: “We’ve seen the popularity in our intake this year, just the amount of people excited to try rugby.” Former England international Maggie Alphonsi and Jodie Ounsley, an ex-England Sevens player from Dewsbury known for her role as Fury in the TV show Gladiators, accompanied the team. Miss Alphonsi remarked: “The enthusiasm has been great today, we finally welcome the World Cup to the city, this iconic city.” She further stated: “It’s going to be an exciting tournament and as long as we can grow the game, that’s the main thing, and try to create a legacy and an impact.” Miss Ounsley expressed that she was “buzzing” about the competition’s arrival in Yorkshire. She added: “It’s special being in England anyway, but to be up north it is even more special because people get to see how amazing York is.” Miss Cox-Kersley commented that the chance for female rugby players to attend local games “is a good thing.” She also stated: “I want to keep encouraging girls to start playing and I think what Maggie and Jodie are doing is really important.” Louise Hamilton, the university’s captain, remarked: “It’s just a very exciting opportunity for us. We’re just really grateful that we got invited.” Miss Hamilton further mentioned that she had already submitted her ticket application following the earlier opening of the ballot. Supporters have until November 19 to choose their preferred matches and price categories, with notifications of success expected by December 2. The matches in York are scheduled to take place at the Community Stadium, the home ground of York City FC, which can accommodate 8,500 spectators. Other cities hosting matches include Sunderland, Brighton, Bristol, Exeter, Northampton, and Salford, while the final will be held at Twickenham, the national rugby union stadium. In the previous women’s World Cup in 2021, England secured the position of runners-up, behind New Zealand.