The first competitive game of women’s rugby league kicks off later today in Nigeria, when Lagos Haven face Lagos Rhinos in the Western Conference. Three teams, The Kings the other, will play each other twice in a round robin format to determine the Conference champions.
Chair of the Nigeria RL Association, Abiodun Olawale Cole, said: “We are very proud to be able to bring forward the formal start of the women’s competition, such has been the demand to play. It is truly wonderful to see so many wanting to participate.
“It further reiterates our commitment to gender equality and, after some initial exhibition matches, we are delighted to commence formal fixtures. Recruitment will continue to add more teams and eventually the formation of a national side.”
Michael Ogunbiyi, NRLA director of strategy and planning added: “Under our strategic vision, we had planned the establishment of a women’s league in 2022. The sheer numbers of female players keen to get started has allowed us to push our plans forward and start immediately.
“It is great to see the continuous growth of rugby league in Africa and the increase in participation of women in the sport especially. We hope to see more women taking up leadership roles.”
This is the year of the Rugby League World Cup 2021
The Rugby League World Cup is taking place between the 23 October – 27 November this autumn and is the pinnacle of international Rugby League, globally contested every four years. RLWC2021 will be a breakthrough moment in the tournament’s history with the men’s, women’s and wheelchair competitions being staged together for the first time.
The three tournaments will take place in 21 venues across 18 host towns and cities in England. Both the women’s and wheelchair competitions will be contested by two groups of four teams, whilst the men’s tournament will see 16 teams compete across four groups.
RLWC2021 will be the most visible Rugby League event in history with all 61 games in the men’s, women’s and wheelchair competitions being broadcast live on the BBC.
Mission: Delivering the biggest and best ever Rugby League World Cup.
Vision: Creating inspirational moments that excite, engage and leave a long-lasting positive social impact.
