The Women's Six Nations is set to make history this weekend, with a significant milestone for women's rugby in Ireland. The Aviva Stadium, a traditional home for the men's team, will host its first standalone women's game, marking a remarkable shift in the sport's landscape.
This event is a testament to the growing support and interest in women's rugby, a trend that has been building momentum over the years. Eve Higgins, a 26-year-old center for the Irish team, reflects on her own journey, from watching women's games in Ashbourne to now playing in front of a record crowd at the Aviva Stadium.
"What makes this particularly fascinating is the evolution of women's rugby in Ireland. From relatively small crowds in County Meath to now filling a stadium, it's a testament to the hard work and dedication of the players and the growing appreciation of the sport," Higgins shared with BBC Sport NI.
The numbers speak for themselves. The upcoming match against Scotland has already sold over 28,000 tickets, more than tripling the previous record for a women's Six Nations game in Ireland. This surge in interest is not isolated; the opening game against England this year drew a staggering 77,120 spectators.
Higgins, who describes the prospect of playing in front of such a crowd as "extremely special," hopes this is just the beginning. "We wanted to ensure we filled the stadium, and now we've done it, we want to keep building on this momentum. It's a matter of continuing to deliver strong performances and engaging the fans," she added.
While the Irish team has enjoyed home wins and creditable performances against top-ranked teams, there's a sense of frustration and determination within the squad. "We know we can push further, and that's the beauty of this sport. There's always room for improvement, and that's what keeps us hungry," Higgins explained.
The upcoming match against Scotland promises to be a tough challenge. With a history of close encounters between the two teams, Higgins anticipates a physical and competitive game. "We respect Scotland, and we know they'll bring their A-game. Our focus is on delivering our best performance and securing that perfect home record," she said.
In conclusion, this weekend's match is not just about the result; it's about the journey and the impact it will have on the future of women's rugby. As Higgins puts it, "This is a moment to celebrate, but also a stepping stone to bigger and better things. We want to inspire the next generation and show that women's rugby is here to stay and thrive."
So, as the Aviva Stadium prepares to welcome a record crowd for a women's game, the eyes of the rugby world will be on Ireland, witnessing a sport on the rise and a nation embracing its female athletes.
