A new initiative is inviting women across the country to swap the touchline for the tryline. Sidelines to Trylines begins this weekend in rugby clubs around Ireland, offering a relaxed and welcoming route into the sport for women of all backgrounds and fitness levels.
The participation programme is designed for women who may have little or no previous rugby experience, as well as those already connected to clubs as supporters, parents, volunteers or coaches. Its focus is simple: make rugby active, social and accessible.
Sidelines to Trylines brings a fresh opportunity to sports Ireland
Developed in conjunction with the Ireland Touch Association, Sidelines to Trylines creates a flexible environment where beginners can take part without the pressure often associated with competitive sport. Sessions are intended to be enjoyable and inclusive, helping participants become more comfortable with movement, handling and the social side of rugby.
The launch is an important addition to Ireland’s wider sports landscape, where clubs increasingly play a central role in supporting participation, wellbeing and community connection. Rather than requiring newcomers to arrive with rugby knowledge or a high level of fitness, the programme is built around meeting people where they are.
A pathway into rugby at every level
For some women, the programme may be a first introduction to rugby. For others, it could be a way to reconnect with a sport they have followed from the sidelines. The organisers are encouraging women to take part regardless of their sporting background, previous experience or current fitness level.
That broad welcome is central to the initiative. Participants can expect a social setting where the emphasis is on trying something new, meeting others and enjoying physical activity. It also gives rugby clubs another opportunity to strengthen their links with local communities.
- No previous rugby experience is required.
- Women of different fitness levels are welcome.
- The programme is designed to be flexible, social and beginner-friendly.
- Existing club supporters, parents, volunteers and coaches can also get involved.
Why the programme matters for rugby Ireland
Women’s participation has become an increasingly important part of the conversation around Irish sport. While elite competition attracts major attention, sustainable growth also depends on creating accessible entry points at grassroots level.
Sidelines to Trylines offers clubs a practical way to engage women who may not see traditional rugby structures as being designed for them. Its connection with touch rugby can help make the first step less intimidating, while the social format may appeal to people looking for activity without the immediate commitment of a formal playing season.
The programme also reflects the wider role of rugby clubs in Ireland. They are not only venues for fixtures and training; they can be places where people build friendships, improve confidence and find a regular outlet for activity.
Find a participating club
Women interested in joining are encouraged to identify their nearest participating club and contact the local co-ordinators. That conversation is the starting point for learning more about session times, availability and what to expect.
For anyone who has watched rugby from the stand, brought children to training or supported a club in another role, the message is clear: there is now an opportunity to become more directly involved.
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Building a stronger future for women’s sport
Programmes such as this can have an impact beyond the individual sessions. New participants may go on to become regular players, club volunteers, coaches or advocates for women’s sport in their local area. Just as importantly, a welcoming first experience can encourage more women to view rugby as an activity that belongs to them.
That matters at every level of the game, from local clubs to the national conversation around Ireland rugby. Grassroots participation supports healthier communities and helps clubs develop a deeper, more diverse membership base.
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What to watch next
Sidelines to Trylines gets under way this weekend, with participating clubs now ready to welcome women who want to take their first steps into rugby. The next stage will be seeing how many newcomers remain involved and how clubs build on the interest generated by the programme.
The key takeaway for sports Ireland is straightforward: rugby is opening the door wider, and women do not need a playing background to walk through it. Contact a local participating club, ask about the programme and make the move from the sidelines to the trylines.
Article/Image Courtesy: Irish Rugby
