Coghlan calls for investment

ONE of Ireland’s most decorated female rugby players has called for ‘huge investment’ in the women’s game at grassroots level to ensure significant growth and facilitate the pursuit of consistent international success. Fiona Coghlan captained Ireland to their historic Grand Slam triumph of 2013, but it was only when she went to University of Limerick that she discovered the opportunity existed for women to play rugby. It’s been a difficult spell for the women’s game after a disappointing performance at last year’s World Cup in Dublin and the significant delay before Adam Griggs was appointed as new head coach. After a heavy defeat in France, Griggs and his coaching team have overseen promising wins against Italy and Wales and will be looking for a third victory against Scotland tomorrow. And Coghlan would like to see more resources distributed to the national team. ‘People talk about the national women’s team going professional. That’s great but it’s not the solution to the problem,’ she said. ‘I think ultimately, the grassroots development will lead to the international success. ‘They do go hand-in-hand ‘cos kids will play when they see the international team doing well but I think huge investment at grassroots level in years to come will lead to a successful international team.’