The rise and rise of women’s rugby: It’s official

NUMBERS GAME

More females are signing up for rugby, but the same can’t be said about males, according to figures released by New Zealand Rugby yesterday.

In the wake of New Zealand’s 125th anniversary since women were given the vote, women’s rugby has come out the winner in terms of growth.

There has been a significant drop of 4.8 per cent for teenage boys aged 13 to 20 years old, and overall male registrations are down 1.8 per cent from last year.

In total there are 157,218 registered players, which is a one per cent increase, with females up 14.6 per cent to 27,838 registered players.

NZ Rugby head of participation Steve Lancaster said numbers remained strong, but also highlighted some challenges, particularly around teenagers and choices.

‘‘There is no doubt the world has changed and young people particularly have a lot of choices. We are not alone in facing the challenge of making sure our game appeals to the next generation and that’s why we have conducted a comprehensive review of secondary school rugby.’’

NZR head of women’s rugby development Cate Sexton said growth in the women’s game represented an exciting opportunity.

‘‘Following our double-digit growth last year, these figures show there is a real generational shift going on in our game and it’s great to see so many young girls being inspired to give rugby a go. I have no doubt many have been inspired by the success of our Black Ferns and Black Ferns Sevens teams and the example they are setting on and off the field.’’

Sexton noted growth in female playing numbers had come off the back of increased NZR investment.