USA Rugby Inspires the Next Generation Ahead of Historic World Cup

WE ARE WISHING USA RUGBY GOOD LUCK AHEAD OF TONIGHT’S WOMEN’S RUGBY WORLD CUP OPENING MATCH AGAINST ENGLAND, AT SUNDERLAND AFC. WE ARE PROUD TO HAVE BEEN AN OFFICIAL WRWC TEAM BASE FOR THE USA SQUAD AND TO SUPPORT WOMEN’S ELITE SPORT. 

On Sunday, 17 August, ahead of their opening match preparations, USA Rugby hosted a vibrant Community Day at RGS Newcastle, welcoming students and girls from regional rugby clubs to enjoy an exclusive Masterclass, open training session, and squad meet and greet.  
 
The morning kicked off with over 30 talented teenage female rugby players taking part in a dynamic skills session led by James Ponton, Head of Newcastle Red Bulls Academy. “It was fantastic to train with players who showed such passion and enthusiasm for the game,” said Ponton. “We focused on building core rugby skills through fun, game-based challenges in a supportive and energetic environment.” 

The Masterclass also featured a hands-on nutrition workshop led by Lindsay Machaughton, Assistant Professor of Sport Nutrition at Durham University and Lead Nutritionist at Newcastle Red Bulls. “It’s essential for young athletes to understand how to fuel their bodies properly,” she explained. “With so much misinformation online, learning how to take care of your body is crucial for long, healthy sporting careers.” A strength and conditioning session with Dani Davies from Momentum, in Gosforth, followed by recovery and rehab with Laura King wrapped up the Masterclass.

At midday, RGS families gathered along the sidelines of the school’s sports field to watch Team USA in action, as the squad trained ahead of what’s set to be the biggest opening match in Women’s Rugby World Cup history. Following the session, USA Rugby generously took time to meet the crowd - chatting with local players and families, posing for photos, and signing autographs, creating unforgettable memories for everyone involved. 

USA Rugby star and social media sensation Ilona Maher was a standout hit with the crowd. When asked how the team felt ahead of the opening match, IIona said: “We are all really excited. It’s going to be the biggest opening match of the Women’s Rugby World Cup, with over 40,000 tickets sold. We are excited to play and kick it off in such a big way. The fact that it is Team USA and England is a great way to make this World Cup something to remember.” 
 
She added, reflecting on the meeting with the Masterclass players, “It’s always cool to meet rugby girls. That’s why I post on social media and play to inspire them. It’s cool to see rugby is up in the North and is everywhere across England.”  

RGS student Sophie W, who plays for Alnwick RFC, shared her excitement: “It’s amazing to see women’s sport being celebrated like this. Watching Team USA train and being part of the day has been unforgettable.” 

Sofia YH, who plays for Penrith RUFC, added: “It’s brilliant to have access to different coaching styles and expert advice. Seeing Team USA up close has made the dream of playing professionally feel that much more real.”

Reflecting on the WRWC Community Day, Angela Ponton, Director of RGS Sport, added: “It was incredibly special to welcome USA Rugby to RGS Newcastle and give so many girls from across the region a taste of what it’s like to train like a professional rugby player.  
 
“From elite coaching and nutrition workshops, to watching an international squad in action, the day was designed to inspire and empower young female players. Opportunities like this are still too rare, especially for girls, so it was important for us to open our doors and show what’s possible. With the Women’s Rugby World Cup kicking off right here in the North East, the excitement is palpable – and we’re proud to play a part in growing the game for the next generation.” 

With over 300,000 tickets sold across eight venues nationwide, this year’s WRWC is set to be the most well-attended in history. Held for the first time in Sunderland at the iconic Stadium of Light, all eyes will be on the city tonight as the Red Roses and USA Rugby kick off what promises to be a landmark tournament for women’s rugby.