Lancashire will be represented in the new RFU Women’s Super rugby competition that has been recently announced by the RFU.
Firwood Waterloo Ladies application for a coveted position in the new league structure was successful. The bid that was endorsed by Lancashire will see the top flight of women’s rugby once again being played in our county. The new competition, which is receiving significant funding from the RFU, will increase the amount of investment in teams and development of players. The knock-on effect will see a greater emphasis on partnerships with local teams and youth clubs to ensure there is a clear pathway for potential England players and future Red Roses.
David Herriman, Lancashire County Chairman, said:
“This is great news for Firwood Waterloo, the County and rugby as a whole. For too long our female players have had to leave the County and the North West region to challenge themselves at the highest level of rugby. “Lancashire and Firwood Waterloo has a long tradition of producing international players, which has continued with Holly Aichinson debuting for England 7s at the USA World Series, Charlie Wilcock debuting for England U20s Women’s and Sam Moore for the U18s. All have previously played for Lancashire and are former or current players of Firwood Waterloo. “This is an exciting time for women and girls rugby and Lancashire is looking forward to continuing to play its part in building and growing rugby within the county.”
Corinne Allmark, Firwood Waterloo Ladies Chair, said:
“We are extremely grateful for the active support that Lancashire County has given us through the process and their endorsement of Firwood Waterloo Ladies as one of the 10 teams offered a place in the new prestigious women’s competition. “As a County Lancashire has always been a leader in supporting and advocating women and girls rugby. We are looking forward to working even closer with them in the future to help take the game to the next level and continue to grow our great sport and the number of fans of women’s rugby in the region.”