In a groundbreaking move that could revolutionize women’s participation in rugby, the England Rugby Football Union (RFU) has begun supplying sanitary products to over 500 rugby clubs across the nation. This initiative, part of the RFU’s broader “Every Rose” strategy, aims to have 100,000 women and girls playing rugby by 2027.
Tackling Period Poverty on the Pitch
The RFU’s sanitary provision program is a direct response to the long-standing issue of period poverty in sports. Many female athletes, especially at the grassroots level, have struggled to access essential menstrual products, leading to discomfort, anxiety, and even missed training sessions or matches.
No one should have to choose between playing the sport they love and managing their period. By providing sanitary products, we’re breaking down a significant barrier to women’s participation in rugby.
– Sarah Hunter, England Women’s Rugby Captain
More Than Just Supplies
The RFU’s initiative goes beyond simply stocking clubhouses with pads and tampons. The union has also introduced a Women’s Health Toolkit to educate players, coaches, and administrators about menstrual health and its impact on athletic performance.
The toolkit covers topics such as:
- Recognizing and managing menstrual symptoms
- Optimizing nutrition and hydration for menstrual health
- Adapting training loads throughout the menstrual cycle
- Having open conversations about periods in a sporting context
By normalizing discussions about menstruation and providing practical guidance, the RFU hopes to create a more supportive environment for female rugby players at all levels.
Investing in the Future of Women’s Rugby
The sanitary provision program and Women’s Health Toolkit are just two components of the RFU’s ambitious “Every Rose” strategy. With a £7 million facility investment fund, the union is also upgrading changing rooms, developing social spaces, and enhancing the overall rugby club experience for women and girls.
These investments come at a crucial time for women’s rugby in England. With the country set to host the Women’s Rugby World Cup in 2025, there’s a golden opportunity to inspire a new generation of female players and fans.
Hosting the Women’s Rugby World Cup in 2025 is a once-in-a-generation chance to accelerate the growth of the women’s game. By providing the necessary infrastructure and support, we can ensure that the legacy of the tournament extends far beyond the final whistle.
– Bill Sweeney, RFU CEO
A Game-Changer for Women’s Sport
The RFU’s pioneering approach to menstrual health and women’s rugby development has the potential to set a new standard for women’s sport globally. By acknowledging and addressing the unique challenges faced by female athletes, the union is sending a powerful message about the value and importance of women’s participation in rugby.
As more sports organizations follow the RFU’s lead, we could see a seismic shift in the landscape of women’s sport. With barriers to participation falling and support structures rising, there’s never been a more exciting time to be a female athlete.
So, as the RFU rolls out its sanitary provision program and “Every Rose” strategy, it’s not just supplying products – it’s providing a pathway to a brighter, more inclusive future for women’s rugby. And that’s a game-changer for us all.
