The England women’s rugby team recently concluded their participation in the Paradise 7s tournament held in Lautoka, Fiji. This event presented a vital opportunity for the team to compete against high-caliber international squads, especially amidst ongoing challenges faced by their program back in England. Head coach Simon Hunt noted that this was a first-time experience in Fiji for many of the players, who were captivated by the country’s breathtaking scenery and the warmth of its people.
On the rugby front, the English team encountered a distinctive style of play characterized by the robust physicality and cultural flair of Fijian rugby, likened metaphorically to a “Monaco of Sevens.” Despite significant uncertainties, including the sudden defunding of their entire program just a month ago, the team seized the chance to compete abroad.
The participation in the Paradise 7s holds particular significance given the stark contrast in circumstances between the men’s and women’s teams. While the men’s team has found new affiliation with the Scottish Rugby Union, the women’s team currently lacks a formal coaching staff, squad, or program, making this exposure invaluable. The upcoming Dubai 7s in eight weeks poses as both a challenge and an opportunity.
The women expressed hope that their performance in Fiji would repay the faith placed in them by the tournament organizers. This tournament not only provided a competitive platform but also underscored the critical role such events play in maintaining team morale and visibility on the international rugby stage.
In comparison, similar rugby events such as the Australian women’s participation in the Paradise 7s have underscored the importance of these tournaments as a means to foster both competitive skills and cultural exchanges, echoing the sentiments of Coach Tim Walsh who described Fiji as the “spiritual home of Sevens.”
Such engagements across the globe showcase the spirit of rugby—a tapestry woven through resilience, adaptability, and celebration of cultural diversity. They reaffirm the commitment to developing women’s rugby, offering hope and inspiration to many striving for excellence in the sport, as seen in Fiji and beyond. These international events further solidify the growing global recognition and support for women’s rugby, paving the way for more inclusive sports opportunities and gender equality.