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Our legacy
The Eagles who came before us.
In 1991, the USA Women won the inaugural XVs Rugby World Cup. From the beginning, the team was burdened by a lack of resources and funding and players paid for their travel costs out of pocket. The team did everything they could to make the journey to Cardiff, Wales possible, from surviving on a small team stipend from the Women’s Sports Foundation, hosting fundraisers, and making and selling t-shirts to cover expenses. On April 14, 1991, the Eagles overcame all obstacles defeated England (19-6) in the first-ever Women’s Rugby World Cup Final at Cardiff Arms Park.
Over the next two World Cups ('94 and '98), the Eagles missed out raising the cup and finished second in the world.
Most recently, the Eagles have seen progressive success in the last two World Cup cycles placing 6th in 2014 and 4th in 2017.
Women's XVs Hall of Fame:
- Jen Crawford, Captain of the 1998 Rugby World Cup team
- Alex Williams, 3x Rugby World Cup team member ( '94, '98, '02)
- Candi Orsini, 3x Rugby World Cup team member ('91, '94, '98)
- 1991 Rugby World Cup Championship team
- Kathy Flores, Captain of the 1991 Rugby World Cup Championship team
- Patty Jervey, 5x Rugby World Cup team member ('91, '94, '98, '02, '06)
- Anne Berry, Minnesota Selects, USA Rugby President & Treasurer
Where we are now.
During the 2021 World Cup cycle, the Eagles have increased the number of matches and interactions per year, while overcoming continual budget setbacks. In just the last two years, the team has:
- Finished the 2021 (Played in 2022) Rugby World Cup in New Zealand, placing 7th Place.
- Traveled to Spain in the first match since Rugby World Cup, beating Spain 20-14.
- Completed the first match in the Pacific 4 Series Tournament.
- Kicked off a Top 40 Camp in Preparation for the Pacific 4 Series Tournament and WXV Series in October.
Looking at the current and future budget, the players will be responsible for: travel to/from camps and potential tours, housing during camps and potential tours, a camp fee, loss of wages, and other unexpected expenses. Around the world, Women’s Rugby is professionalizing while the USA team remains largely pay - to - play despite the increasing competition and interest nationwide.
Rugby World Cup 2025
The 2025 Rugby World Cup marks a pivotal moment in the history of women’s rugby, as teams from around the globe prepare to showcase their talent, skill, and determination on the sport’s highest stage. For USA, this tournament represents not only a chance to compete against the world’s best but also to continue their legacy as pioneers in women’s rugby. The event will bring together the top teams in an electrifying showcase of rugby’s growth, offering players and fans alike an opportunity to celebrate the progress and potential of the game.
Pool play will be an intense and decisive phase, as teams battle for supremacy and a spot in the knockout rounds. The USA Women’s XVs face formidable competition in their pool, requiring strategic play, teamwork, and resilience to advance. These games will test the mettle of each squad and provide thrilling matchups as nations vie for global dominance. For many athletes, it’s also a chance to gain valuable experience and exposure that can propel them to new heights in their careers.
The transition to professional rugby remains a critical factor in the evolution of the sport. With the Rugby World Cup as a platform, more players are making the leap to professional leagues, including those in England’s Premier 15s and other elite competitions worldwide. This shift not only enhances the competitive landscape but also fosters the development of rugby at all levels. For the USA Women’s XVs, success in the Rugby World Cup will underscore the importance of continued investment, support, and opportunities for players to thrive in both international and professional arenas.
How will we get there.
Our success as a foundation is tied to our ability to create direct, sustainable revenue that directly benefits our players. To prepare for the Rugby World Cup and create the most professional environment possible, we must raise $100,000 in 2025 for the Women’s XVs program (through donations, grants, sponsorships, and partnerships).
These funds are vital to ensuring the players have everything they need to perform at their best, from preparation to competition. Join us in supporting the Women’s XVs Program as we work together to create an environment of professionalism, equity, and excellence that empowers our athletes to succeed on the world’s biggest stage.
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