Ipswich rugby coach says momentum must continue to keep women involved
It's as England is set to face the USA today as the World Cup begins
Michaela Taylor, who plays for Ipswich Rugby Club and is the Women and Girls' chairman at Ipswich Rugby Club, says she’s seen a real change in attitudes towards the game.
It's as the Women's Rugby World Cup is starting today (Friday, 22 August 2025), with England Facing the USA at the Stadium of Light in Sunderland. Kick off is at 19:30 BST.
Attitudes changing for the better
“The attitude towards women’s rugby, and women’s sport in general, has really skyrocketed over the last couple of years,” Michaela told us.
“There’s a positive atmosphere around women and girls getting involved, whether that’s for fitness, friendships, or just the fun of playing.”
She says Ipswich has seen a surge in new players thanks to the RFU’s Impact 25 programme, which is focused on bringing more women and girls into the sport. At the club, campaigns on strength and conditioning have helped make rugby more accessible, while younger players are finding confidence, friendship, and support through the game.
“It’s not just about throwing the ball around,” Michaela explains.
“It’s the friendships, the social side, and the support network. For some, it’s a stress reliever during exams or just a way to forget about everything else for a while.”
And it’s not just the next generation getting behind women’s rugby. Michaela says even Ipswich’s “old guard” of ex-players, who used to only watch men’s matches, are now turning out to support the women’s squad.
“People are realising that women’s rugby is great to watch. It’s just as competitive and just as entertaining.”
staring over the scrum
staring over the scrum
The bigger picture
The rise in women’s rugby comes as England’s Red Roses prepare for their opening game in just a few hours. Michaela’s prediction? A clear win.
“That’s a definite England whitewash, no question about it.”
Keep momentum going
But while there’s lots of attention at the moment, Michaela is clear about what needs to happen next.
“We’ve got to sustain this. Local clubs need to keep creating opportunities for women and girls, and we need more female coaches to inspire the next generation.”
With more people watching, more girls picking up a rugby ball, and more clubs stepping up, women’s rugby is on the rise, but keeping that buzz going will be key to its future.