When the British & Irish Lions returned to Australian shores for their Perth clash against the Western Force, it wasn’t just a spectacle - it was a strategic opportunity.
At RugbyWA, we recognised that hosting one of the world’s most iconic rugby teams was about more than the on-field result. It was about the connection between elite athletes and grassroots juniors, local clubs and global rugby institutions, and the sport’s future and its legacy.
Through a series of targeted events alongside the match, RugbyWA ensured the tour left a lasting footprint across our community, from club presidents and coaches to the next generation of players.
Engaging the Next Generation
RugbyWA hosted a junior meet-and-greet for over 200 junior players across our community pathways. These young athletes had the chance to connect directly with members of the British & Irish Lions squad - some of the biggest names in world rugby. For these juniors, the interaction was more than inspirational; it served as a powerful reminder of the pathways and possibilities within our game.
A once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, the event sold out in less than 6 hours.
Moments like these are crucial to RugbyWA’s long-term participation goals. They ignite passion, foster loyalty, and bridge the gap between local and international rugby in a way no training session alone can.
Connecting Leaders, Growing the Game
RugbyWA also hosted a CEO Sundowner event attended by Ben Calveley (CEO, British & Irish Lions), Niamh O’Connor (CEO, Western Force), and Phil Waugh (CEO, Rugby Australia), bringing together senior figures from across WA’s rugby landscape. Supported by the British Consulate of Western Australia, club presidents, sponsors, and community stakeholders gathered for a rare opportunity to hear directly from the sport’s national and international leadership.
The message was clear: Western Australia is a key player in the future of Australian rugby, and events like these are vital for aligning local ambition with national and global opportunity.
Backing the Future Through the Rugby Foundation of Western Australia
The week also saw a special pre-game event hosted by the Rugby Foundation of Western Australia, supported by RugbyWA and featuring guest speakers Phil Waugh and Ian Prior (former Western Force captain). This event reinforced our collective commitment to supporting rugby at all levels, from grassroots through to high performance, through sustainable investment and shared vision.
Honouring Heritage at Perth Irish
In a nod to the strong UK–WA rugby connection, British & Irish Lions CEO Ben Calveley and Chair Ieuan Evans made a surprise visit to Perth Irish, a club with deep roots in the UK and Ireland, a home away from home. Their informal Q&A with players and club members created a powerful moment of connection, reinforcing a commitment to community engagement. For RugbyWA and its partners, it was a prime example of how international rugby can strengthen local club identity, deepen cultural ties, and create meaningful stakeholder value beyond the pitch.
Global Moments, Local Impact
The British & Irish Lions' visit was a reminder that when international teams invest in community engagement, everyone wins. For RugbyWA, it was a chance to demonstrate the value of Western Australian rugby to a global audience, forge meaningful connections, and create unforgettable experiences for our players, clubs, and supporters.
The result? A week that was not only memorable, but measurable in its impact.
