On International Women’s Day 2025, the Rugby Football League proudly celebrates the achievements of women in Rugby League and reaffirms its commitment to creating opportunities for women and girls at every level of the game.
This year’s theme is ‘Accelerate Action’. Whilst we are proud of the progress made, we know there is always more to do. Rugby League is a sport for all, and we remain dedicated to ensuring that women have the space to excel within the sport.
The past few years have been truly transformative for Women’s Rugby League. Together, we celebrate the remarkable milestones that continue to drive the game forward:
- Raising Visibility: The launch of dedicated social media channels for the women’s game, including an industry-first player-led TikTok.
- Record-Breaking Crowds: The 2024 Women’s Grand Final saw unprecedented attendance.
- Growing Grassroots Participation: The Rugbees programme, designed to introduce girls aged 7 to 11 to Rugby League in a fun and supportive environment, saw a 24% increase in participation, encouraging more young players to participate in the sport.
- Expanding Competition: The number of Women’s teams competing in the Community Game grew by 11% from 2023 to 2024, reflecting the increasing reach and enthusiasm for the sport.
- Honouring Trailblazers: The legendary 1996 Team GB Lionesses were inducted into the Rugby League Hall of Fame, ensuring their contributions to the women’s game are never forgotten.
- Developing Future Stars: Seven DiSE (Diploma in Sporting Excellence) graduates earned places in the England Women’s squad in 2024.
- Breaking Barriers in Officiating: Tara Jones made history as the first woman to join the RFL’s Full-Time Match Officials Squad for 2025.
- Recognising Leadership: Former England captain Andrea Dobson was awarded an MBE for her outstanding contributions to Rugby League.
- Shaping the Future: Courtney Winfield-Hill was appointed as Women and Girls’ Senior Partner, a key role in driving further progress for the sport.
While these achievements mark significant progress, our journey is far from over. We celebrate the women who continue to break barriers, inspire future generations, and shape the future of Rugby League.
On this International Women’s Day, we stand together; not just to recognise how far we’ve come, but to reaffirm our commitment to accelerating action and championing women in every aspect of the game.
Courtney Winfield-Hill, Senior Women and Girls’ partner, said: "I’m proud to be involved at the RFL in my role within the women’s and girls’ space. There is a long way to go. However, there is enormous potential within the space itself, and I am committed to being a voice and advocate, both on a recreational and professional level to move the game forward”
Tara Jones, Full Time Match Official & Women's Referee Ambassador, said: “Retiring from playing Rugby League was no easy decision. However, during occasions such as International Women’s Day it amplifies the significance of my decision to do so. Being a role model from a player perspective is great but showing girls and women that they can get involved and succeed by being a match-official brings a whole new level of pride.
"I’m the first full-time female match official at the RFL and I’m sure that I won’t be the last.”
