The Women's Six Nations 2026 is shaping up to be a pivotal moment for women's rugby in Ireland, with a focus on the growth of the sport and the potential for the Aviva Stadium to become a regular home for the women's team. Eve Higgins, a key player for the Irish team, reflects on the journey and the exciting prospects ahead.
In my opinion, the rise of women's rugby in Ireland is a testament to the power of tradition and the ability of the sport to capture the imagination of a nation. Growing up, Higgins' family ritual of attending the women's game on a Friday and the men's game on a Saturday was a microcosm of the broader cultural shift towards embracing women's rugby. The 'Green Wave' of support is a fascinating phenomenon, and the increasing attendance numbers are a clear indicator of the sport's growing popularity.
What makes this particularly fascinating is the contrast between the high attendance at the Aviva Stadium for the men's games and the lower numbers at the County Meath venue for the women's game. It highlights the need for dedicated spaces and the importance of creating a culture of support for women's rugby. The fact that the Lansdowne Road venue will host a stand-alone women's game for the first time is a significant milestone, and it is a testament to the hard work and dedication of the players and supporters.
One thing that immediately stands out is the impact of the 'Green Wave' on the sport. The rapid growth in interest in women's rugby is a powerful force, and it is driving the need for more high-profile events and venues. The fact that the Irish team has already beaten its record crowd in this Six Nations championship is a clear indication of the sport's potential.
However, it is important to note that the journey has not been without its challenges. Higgins reflects on the frustration of close defeats to world champions England and number four-ranked France, but she also highlights the 'hunger to improve' within the team. The ambition to round off the campaign with a perfect home record of three wins from three is a clear indication of the team's determination and the importance of the final game against Scotland.
From my perspective, the Women's Six Nations 2026 is a pivotal moment for women's rugby in Ireland. It is a chance for the sport to continue its rapid growth and for the Aviva Stadium to become a regular home for the women's team. The 'Green Wave' of support is a powerful force, and it is driving the need for more high-profile events and venues. The final game against Scotland will be a challenging but exciting opportunity for the Irish team to showcase its talent and continue its journey towards the top of the women's rugby world.
