IRL’s Women and Girls Advisory Group Set Out Targets

International Rugby League’s Women and Girls Advisory Group (WGAG) has set out a strategic framework, outlining the group’s targets for the coming year.  

The framework was positively received by the International Rugby League (IRL) Board in October, following a presentation by the group’s independent Chair, Julia Lee. 

The targets cover six very specific and crucial areas of work:

• International Playing Opportunities
• Stronger domestic competitions
• National pathways for female players
• Female coaches’ recruitment and development
• Decision making and leadership roles
• Increasing the profile of the women’s game

Lee welcomed the next stage of this important work, saying:

“The International development of women and girl’s rugby league is a fantastic opportunity for the whole sport and, in some nations is the leading driver in their growth. Having this framework in place provides a clear plan for rugby league and focusses the group’s work so we stay on track. It is important that we concentrate on the main areas of work so that we create opportunities for the membership and confederations to realise their potential so more females become involved in rugby league at all levels of the sport. 

"The Board of IRL are very supportive and this plan will ensure that we continue to meet their expectations and also service the members and their female players, coaches, match officials and administrate leaders.

"The meetings so far have been so encouraging and positive. We have representatives who fully participate and the world-wide inclusion is vast. At the last meeting we had people on from 8 different countries and time zones, which is testament of the passion and motivation to grow the women’s game."

Further details about the Women and Girls Advisory Group:  https://www.intrl.sport/subcommittees/women-girls-rugby-league-advisory-group/