The IRFU has announced the season structure for the Men’s and Women’s Energia All-Ireland Leagues for the 2024/25 season.
The IRFU has been reviewing the domestic structure for Women’s rugby in conjunction with Women’s rugby representatives and the High-Performance department. First and foremost, our ambition is for every woman and girl in Ireland to have the opportunity to play and enjoy rugby. For those who wish to go on and play at an elite level we want to ensure that the pathways are in place, which we have been investing heavily in over the past number of years.
The IRFU has developed three proposals in relation to a domestic rugby competition. The Chairs of the Women’s subcommittee of all four provinces were presented with the options and given an opportunity to give feedback and ask questions. Each Chair liaised directly with their AIL Women’s Clubs to take on board their opinions. The season plan for the year was clearly outlined alongside the competitions which would impact on domestic player availability, namely the WXV competition, the Celtic Challenge and the Guinness Women’s Six Nations.
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One of the proposals, for a full home and away season and the removal of the Senior Cup competition, received the support of all four provinces and was endorsed by the Women’s Game Advisory Group and the Rugby Committee of the IRFU.
Clubs were also informed of the decision to introduce a player points system starting in the 2025/26 season. This will benefit Clubs who have developed their pathways and brought players through their Club system to adult rugby. It will also benefit players looking to establish themselves in AIL Women’s Clubs, as it will empower them to make decisions on where may be best for them to continue their development as players, playing at the top level of Club rugby in Ireland. Dual status will remain largely unchanged, as Clubs will have five players with no limit on appearances for the season. A genuine reason for the use of the player must be submitted.
Speaking about the changes, Head of women’s development Amanda Greensmith said: "As a Union we are committed to developing and enhancing the women’s game in Ireland and feedback from players and Clubs is central to that.
"The Energia AIL Women’s Division has been in operation for many years but as the elite side of the game develops at pace, it provides an opportunity to reimagine the domestic game and ensure we continue to offer opportunities for players to play in an exciting and vibrant competition structure.
"I would like to thank all the Clubs, Players and Provincial Committees for their support and engagement during this process. We look forward to bringing this competition to life before the start of the 2024/25 season."
Full season plans for the Men’s and Women’s AIL leagues can be found here.
