As the 2026 Six Nations shatters attendance records, the influence of women's rugby continues to ascend, demonstrating a vibrant future for the sport. Former England star Emily Scarratt, now a beacon for the sport's growth, encourages young girls to embrace rugby, emphasizing the joy and camaraderie it brings.
Reflecting on her journey from a 2008 debut to witnessing packed stadiums in the present day, Scarratt remarked on the transformative landscape of women's rugby. "When I got my first cap, there were just a handful of people watching. Fast forward to now, and we're selling out stadiums," she noted, underscoring the leap from sparse crowds to record-breaking attendances, like the 77,120 fans at Ashton Gate.
"Commercially as well, we have a lot more support. All the girls are full-time professionals, which makes a big difference,"
Scarratt's transition from player to coach within the England setup has offered her new insights and challenges. "It's a whole new way of working... I'm still learning this side of it," she shared, expressing her evolving relationship with the game from a different vantage point.
Her involvement extends beyond the field, as seen in her role with IHG Hotels & Resorts' 'Fancierge' service, enhancing fan experiences during the Six Nations. Scarratt's humorous recount of filming promotions, including a spa day with Joe Marler, highlights the importance of showcasing player personalities. "It was really fun, and he's such a great guy to work with," she commented on the unexpected but enjoyable promotional activities.
The growth of social media and the prominence of individual players' personalities are pivotal in attracting new fans. "People follow people. If we can showcase different personalities and engage with people on various levels, it's massive for the growth of the game," Scarratt explained.
As the sport continues to evolve, Scarratt's message to young fans is simple yet powerful: "Just go for it." She advocates for rugby to be more accessible in schools and encourages non-contact versions of the game to introduce the sport in a fun, approachable manner.
With figures like Scarratt at the helm, both on and off the field, the future of women's rugby looks not only promising but also inclusive, ensuring the game grows not just in numbers but in heart and spirit as well.
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As the 2026 Six Nations shatters attendance records, the influence of women's rugby continues to ascend, demonstrating a vibrant future for the sport. Former England star Emily Scarratt, now a beacon for the sport's growth, encourages young girls to embrace rugby, emphasizing the joy and camaraderie it brings.
Reflecting on her journey from a 2008 debut to witnessing packed stadiums in the present day, Scarratt remarked on the transformative landscape of women's rugby. "When I got my first cap, there were just a handful of people watching. Fast forward to now, and we're selling out stadiums," she noted, underscoring the leap from sparse crowds to record-breaking attendances, like the 77,120 fans at Ashton Gate.
"Commercially as well, we have a lot more support. All the girls are full-time professionals, which makes a big difference,"
Scarratt's transition from player to coach within the England setup has offered her new insights and challenges. "It's a whole new way of working... I'm still learning this side of it," she shared, expressing her evolving relationship with the game from a different vantage point.
Her involvement extends beyond the field, as seen in her role with IHG Hotels & Resorts' 'Fancierge' service, enhancing fan experiences during the Six Nations. Scarratt's humorous recount of filming promotions, including a spa day with Joe Marler, highlights the importance of showcasing player personalities. "It was really fun, and he's such a great guy to work with," she commented on the unexpected but enjoyable promotional activities.
The growth of social media and the prominence of individual players' personalities are pivotal in attracting new fans. "People follow people. If we can showcase different personalities and engage with people on various levels, it's massive for the growth of the game," Scarratt explained.
As the sport continues to evolve, Scarratt's message to young fans is simple yet powerful: "Just go for it." She advocates for rugby to be more accessible in schools and encourages non-contact versions of the game to introduce the sport in a fun, approachable manner.
With figures like Scarratt at the helm, both on and off the field, the future of women's rugby looks not only promising but also inclusive, ensuring the game grows not just in numbers but in heart and spirit as well.