Women’s rugby is one of the fastest growing sports in the world, experiencing unprecedented growth around the world.
But it’s not just the women on the field who help the game to grow – it's the women on the sidelines, coaching, volunteering and administrating, too.
To celebrate International Women’s Day, RugbyWA is highlighting the incredible women who work tirelessly at RugbyHQ to ensure the continued growth and development of our sport. From marketing and communications, to community, integrity and competitions, the women at RugbyWA do it all.
Meet the incredible women behind rugby in WA!
Community Team – Sarah du Plessis (General Manager – Community) & Kate Hooper (Integrity Manager)
What does rugby mean to you, on and off the field?
KH: “Rugby is a space where everyone can truly be themselves, embracing their unique strengths while being part of a supportive, inclusive community. It’s a place where differences are celebrated, and every individual is valued for who they are. The game fosters a sense of belonging, unity, and mutual respect, creating a strong bond among teammates both on and off the field.”
SDP: “On the field, rugby teaches resilience, teamwork, and discipline, but off the field, it’s the relationships we forge, the trust we build, and the sense of belonging that truly define the game.”
What's one way you hope to inspire other women in your workplace or community?
KH: “One way I hope to inspire other women is by leading through example, showing that it's possible to balance ambition with compassion, professionalism with authenticity, and success with supporting others. I aim to create an inclusive environment where women feel empowered to speak up and share their ideas.”
SDP: “I hope to inspire other women by showing that with determination, collaboration, and a positive mindset, we can achieve anything.”
Development Team – Ashley Munrowd-Harris (Inclusion Coordinator) & Jessie Treherne (Match Official Coordinator)
What does rugby mean to you, on and off the field?
AMH: “Rugby for me isn't about actually playing as I think I would get snapped in half; however, being a part of the rugby community is about friendships and building health, both physical and mental.”
JT: “Rugby is my happy place, a source of joy whether I'm watching, playing or even talking about it with family at the dinner table. It's been a central part of my life and my family's and holds so many great memories for me. There's nothing better than a Saturday full of community spirit, supporting your team and sharing those moments with others, who love the game just as much.”
What's one way you hope to inspire other women in your workplace or community?
AMH: “I hope to inspire women that rugby is not just a male-dominated industry and that women can be respected and valued within the sport and administration side of the sport.”
JT: “In my role I want to inspire women and girls to get involved in the game in any way they can - playing, coaching, refereeing, even just going down to their local club to support. Rugby is a great game with a great sense of community, and needs more women to get involved!”
Corporate Team – Di Cameron (Administration & Office Manager) & Sonia Jukes (Finance Coordinator)
What does rugby mean to you, on and off the field?
DC: “Community spirit, teamwork and passion, for all people everywhere.”
SJ: “Being new to the sport of Rugby I see Rugby as an inclusive sport that is widely enjoyed in the community. Off the field, being in the workplace of Rugby is a workplace I am happy to be involved with.”
What's one way you hope to inspire other women in your workplace or community?
DC: “Creating an inclusive safe community where all are welcome.”
SJ: “By having self-worth and showing strength, purpose and perseverance through life challenges.”
Marketing and Communications Team – Liz Fotiou (General Manager - Commercial, Marketing and Media), Anita Reca (Marketing Coordinator) & Hailee Preen (Communications Coordinator)
What does rugby mean to you, on and off the field?
LF: “Rugby empowers me - building strength, resilience and sisterhood that champions equality every day.”
AR: “Rugby means community to me. People in the rugby community care, they truly care for each other and the don't hesitate to lend a helping hand.”
HP: “Rugby is all about the community. I've met so many incredible people since I started working in rugby, and become part of something bigger than myself and my job. I've become part of a community that is so passionate and dedicated, and who have reminded me why I fell in love with sport as a kid. I'm so incredibly grateful for all the rugby community has now given me.”
What's one way you hope to inspire other women in your workplace or community?
LF: “I hope to inspire women around me to chase their goals and provide support to break down barriers together.”
AR: “By showing that there is more than one option for every single one of us. We get conditioned when we are younger, that you must do this, be that and have a single goal, especially in sports, where we still compete against the imbalance. I want to show girls and kids in general that there are multiple ways of staying in sport if you choose to, achieving success, if that's what you're after. We can pretty much do anything in our lives, as long as we are not afraid to fail and fail again and learn from it. I'm hoping to help a few people to break through the mentality we have been put in through no fault of our own.”
HP: “I hope I inspire other women in both the workplace and community to be curious! I'm a big believer in asking questions, and in sharing my opinion. I truly believe there is no silly question. If we shy away from asking questions or challenging others, then we don't learn or engage with other perspectives, which is important for development at all stages of life. There's always something to learn, particularly in sport, so it's always worth asking the question!”
Happy International Women’s Day! At RugbyWA, we are proud to champion the game for all, to be fiercely inclusive – which we see every day as our sport continues to grow.
In line with the theme of IWD2025, RugbyWA continues to Accelerate Action towards gender equality in our sport, providing the opportunity for all members of our community to be involved both on and off the field.
To learn more about International Women’s Day, visit internationalwomensday.com.
