International Women's Day (IWD) 2025, observed annually on March 8, celebrates women's achievements and calls for gender equality worldwide. This year's theme, "Accelerate Action," emphasises the urgency to eliminate systemic barriers and biases impeding women's progress. Imagine a gender equal world free of bias, stereotypes, and discrimination - a world that's diverse, equitable, and inclusive, where difference is valued and celebrated. Together we can forge gender equality and collectively #AccelerateAction for #IWD2025.
In the spirit of this year's theme, Oceania Rugby is proud to celebrate the renewal of Rise Rugby, funded through the Australian Government as part of the Pacific Women Sports Administration Program (PWSAP). This program continues to uplift and empower women and girls in rugby across the Pacific, paving the way for a more inclusive future in the sport. The renewal of Rise Rugby is a testament to the tireless efforts of players, coaches, administrators, leaders, and communities who champion the game every day.
Women's rugby in the Oceania Region is thriving, with programs nurturing future stars, elite-level competitions showcasing the region's finest, and administrators working for the sustainable future of member unions, the journey of women’s rugby is one of strength, determination, and cultural pride.
2025 is shaping up to be a landmark year for women’s rugby, with some of the biggest events currently taking place or on the horizon:
- Oceania Women’s Championship – The best in the region go head-to-head.
- Oceania Sevens – The speed, the skill, the passion!
- HSBC Sevens Series & Challenger Series – A global stage for our warriors.
- Super Rugby Women’s & Super Rugby Aupiki Competitions – Exciting to see our women battling it out in both competitions, showcasing the incredible depth of talent in the Pacific.
- Women’s Rugby World Cup 2025 (England) – Oceania will be represented with pride by Samoa, Fiji, Australia, and New Zealand—a testament to the strength of our region!
Growth Across the Women’s Rugby Space
Beyond Rise Rugby, Oceania Rugby is making waves with programs that elevate women across all aspects of the game:
- Penina Pasifika Program – Run in Partnership with Rugby Australia, the Australian Government and World Rugby we are creating and strengthening development pathways for Pacific women in rugby, ensuring they have the support to shine on and off the field.
- Sport for Development Programs – Expanding Get Into Rugby Plus, giving more young girls and boys access to our sport and training the next generation of Pacific coaches.
- Safeguarding Programs – Equipping our players, administrators, and leaders with the knowledge and tools to ensure rugby remains a safe and inclusive space because "Safeguarding is everyone’s business."
Sheridan Graham-Tupaea, Women’s Rugby Programs Manager at Oceania Rugby, shares her excitement for the journey ahead:
“We have champions working hard to not only grow our game but to break down barriers and increase opportunities for women and girls in rugby. It is incredible to be part of the women’s rugby space and all it has to offer. Our region is rich with talent, passion, and leadership, and we are seeing our wāhine rise to new heights. It is time to celebrate women and girls not just today on International Women’s Day but every day.”
Join Us on the Waka!
The waka is set, and the journey is well underway! Oceania Rugby is excited to launch the Oceania Women in Rugby Newsletter, a monthly publication dedicated to celebrating and sharing the latest in women’s rugby from across our region.
Jump on board and paddle with us on this exciting journey!
The first edition will be released later this month. Subscribe now and don’t miss out!
