In a significant development for women's rugby, Abi Burton, who plays in the back row for England and Trailfinders Women, has been appointed as the chair of a groundbreaking leadership group comprised entirely of female players. This initiative marks a pivotal moment in the sport's history.
Burton, a member of the Red Roses team that triumphed at the Women's Rugby World Cup in September, is set to take the helm of the newly established Women's Rugby Board, which has been initiated by the Rugby Players Association (RPA), the governing body for elite players.
At just 25 years old, Burton's remarkable journey to this point includes overcoming a life-threatening immune condition that led to her being placed in a coma just three years prior to her World Cup victory. "I am incredibly proud to have been elected as the chair of the inaugural Women's Rugby Board," Burton expressed. "This is a vital opportunity to amplify the voices of players, and I eagerly anticipate collaborating with the board and the RPA to advocate for athletes across the women's game."
The formation of this separate women's board aims to enhance representation for female players and tackle the unique challenges and opportunities they encounter, as highlighted by the RPA.
In addition to Burton's leadership, Jenny Hesketh, who plays for Bristol Bears and Wales, has been elected as the vice-chair, while Emily Tuttosi, who was on the starting lineup for Canada against England in last year’s World Cup final, will represent Exeter Chiefs on the board.
Here are the representatives of the Women's Rugby Board for the upcoming 2025–26 season:
- Bristol Bears: Jenny Hesketh (vice-chair)
- Exeter Chiefs: Emily Tuttosi
- Gloucester Hartpury: Sam Monaghan
- Harlequins: Lagi Tuima
- Leicester Tigers: Grace Deane
- Loughborough Lightning: Elis Martin
- Sale Sharks: Tysh Harper
- Saracens: Ella Wyrwas
- Trailfinders Women: Abi Burton (chair)
This newly formed board is a crucial step forward in ensuring that women’s rugby players have a platform where their specific needs and challenges are recognized and addressed. But here's where it gets controversial: How effectively can these boards influence real change within the broader structures of rugby? Will they be able to secure the support and resources necessary for the growth of women’s rugby? We want to hear your thoughts! Are you optimistic about the future of women's rugby under this new leadership?
