What Life-Changing Moments Defined the Red Roses' Year?

This year has been monumental for the Red Roses, with the team achieving unprecedented success, highlighted by their World Cup victory. Ellie Kildunne, the runner-up for the Sports Personality of the Year, reflects on this historic achievement and its implications for women's rugby in the UK.

Last updated: 01 December 2023 (BST)

What’s happening now

Ellie Kildunne and the Red Roses have captured the attention of the UK sports community following their remarkable performance in the World Cup. This victory not only marks a significant achievement for the team but also represents a turning point for women's rugby, as it gains increased visibility and support from fans and sponsors alike. Kildunne's recognition as a top athlete further amplifies the conversation about the importance of women's sports in the UK.

Key takeaways

• The Red Roses won the World Cup, marking a historic first for women's rugby in the UK.
• Ellie Kildunne was recognised as Sports Personality of the Year runner-up.
• Women's rugby is experiencing a surge in popularity and support.

Timeline: how we got here

The journey to the Red Roses' World Cup victory began several years prior, with consistent efforts to promote women's rugby at all levels. Key milestones include:

• 2017: The Red Roses reach the World Cup final but lose to New Zealand.
• 2022: The team wins the Women's Six Nations Championship, building momentum for the World Cup.
• October 2023: The Red Roses win the World Cup, defeating Australia in the final.

What’s new vs what’s known

New today/this week

Ellie Kildunne's recent recognition as the Sports Personality of the Year runner-up has highlighted her role in the team's success and brought further attention to women's rugby in the UK.

What was already established

The Red Roses have been a formidable force in women's rugby, consistently performing well in international competitions and advocating for the growth of the sport.

Impact for the UK

Consumers and households

The success of the Red Roses is likely to increase interest in women's sports, leading to higher attendance at matches and increased viewership. This can translate into better facilities and resources for female athletes at all levels.

Businesses and jobs

As women's rugby gains traction, businesses and sponsors are increasingly investing in the sport. This influx of funding can create jobs within the sport and its surrounding industries, including coaching, administration, and event management.

Policy and regulation

The UK government and sports bodies may implement policies to support the growth of women's rugby, including funding initiatives and development programmes aimed at nurturing young talent.

Numbers that matter

• Over 1 million viewers tuned in to watch the World Cup final, showcasing the growing interest in women's rugby.
• The Red Roses have now won three Six Nations titles in the last five years.
• Participation in women's rugby has increased by 35% since 2018.

Definitions and jargon buster

• Red Roses: The nickname for the England women's rugby union team.
• World Cup: An international rugby tournament held every four years, featuring the best national teams.

How to think about the next steps

Near term (0–4 weeks)

Expect an increase in grassroots rugby initiatives aimed at young girls, with local clubs likely to promote new programmes to attract participants.

Medium term (1–6 months)

As interest in women's rugby grows, more sponsorship deals and partnerships may emerge, providing financial backing for clubs and players.

Signals to watch

• Attendance figures at women's rugby matches.
• New sponsorship deals announced within the sport.
• Changes in funding from governing bodies for women's rugby initiatives.

Practical guidance

Do

• Support local women's rugby teams by attending matches and events.
• Encourage young girls to participate in sports, particularly rugby.

Don’t

• Dismiss women's sports as less interesting or competitive.
• Overlook the importance of media coverage in promoting women's rugby.

Checklist

• Find local women's rugby clubs or teams to support.
• Follow women's rugby news and updates to stay informed.
• Consider volunteering or getting involved in local sports initiatives.

Risks, caveats, and uncertainties

While the growth of women's rugby is promising, it is essential to approach it with caution. Factors such as funding sustainability, maintaining competitive standards, and ensuring equal media representation will play significant roles in the sport's future trajectory.

Bottom line

The Red Roses' World Cup victory and Ellie Kildunne's recognition signal a bright future for women's rugby in the UK. As support for the sport grows, it is vital to champion equality and inclusion to ensure long-term success.

FAQs

What is the significance of the Red Roses' World Cup win?

The Red Roses' World Cup win is a historic achievement, marking the first time an England women's team has won this prestigious title, significantly boosting the profile of women's rugby in the UK.

Who is Ellie Kildunne?

Ellie Kildunne is a prominent player for the Red Roses and was recently named the runner-up for Sports Personality of the Year, highlighting her contributions to the team's success.

How can I support women's rugby in the UK?

You can support women's rugby by attending matches, following the sport in the media, and encouraging young girls to participate in rugby programmes.