What is the Women’s Summer Series?
The Six Nations Women’s Summer Series, debuting this July in Parma, Italy, is a groundbreaking development competition organised by Six Nations Rugby. Running from July 4th to 14th, the event will feature all Six Nations teams, creating an exciting new platform for international rugby experience.
A New Development Pathway
Designed to support the progression of players through the rugby development pathway, the Women’s Summer Series is predominantly aimed at U20 players. However, each union is allowed to select up to three U23 players per match day squad. This format also offers a critical opportunity for players who may have missed the U18 entry point to advance their game.
Julie Paterson, Chief of Rugby at Six Nations Rugby, emphasised the significance of this initiative, stating: “Over the last three years, the Women’s U18 Festivals have provided a competitive and successful development platform. We are now able to offer the next phase for players, coaches and match officials to graduate to, and continue to gain experience."
Competitive Structure and Coverage
The competition consists of three match days —July 4th, 9th, and 14th— promising intense action and high-level competition. News and features will be available on the new Six Nations Rugby app, while matches will be streamed globally on the Six Nations Rugby U20s YouTube channel, with additional coverage on our dedicated U20 Six Nations social media channels, ensuring fans worldwide can follow the series.
We'll be getting to know the players involved too, such as England's Ella Cromack, who has already been training with the senior Red Roses and is very much one to watch!
Crucial for Future Stars
The Women’s Summer Series is seen as a crucial stepping stone for young players. Caroline Suné, coach of France U20, expressed her excitement, saying, “I feel that Six Nations Rugby wants to use this competition to showcase the world’s future players and demonstrate that women’s rugby has its place on the international stage”
Faith Oviawe, a rising star in Irish rugby, shared her enthusiasm about participating in the series. “I’m so grateful for this opportunity and can’t wait to go to Parma with the girls and show what we’ve got,” she said. Oviawe, who has swiftly progressed through the ranks, has highlighted how the series could help her and her teammates learn and grow.
Enhancing Coaching and Officiating Experience
In addition to benefiting the players, the Women’s Summer Series also aims to develop key personnel off the field. The involvement of coaches and officials from each nation ensures that the learning and development opportunities extend beyond the players.
Scotland U20s head coach Claire Cruikshank believes that "adding that U20s bracket is the next step for the women’s game. It’s always something that’s been missing."
Bérénice Loubet-Bralley, a French referee - and full-time nurse - who will officiate in the series, spoke about the unique experience and challenge this new competition presents. “The aim is to keep the game going, so I don't whistle all the time. I prefer to warn rather than whistle,” she explained.
Looking Ahead
By providing a structured and competitive environment, the Women's Summer Series aims to nurture the next generation of rugby stars. It promises exciting times ahead for players, coaches, officials, and fans alike.
With the backing of the Italian Rugby Federation, which previously hosted a successful men's version of the competition, the inaugural Women’s Summer Series is set to deliver an incredible experience for everyone involved, setting the stage for the future stars of women’s rugby.
(Main image: RFU/JMP)
