Historic Moment as Retrospective Navy Rugby Women's Caps Awarded

In a landmark event for Navy rugby, RNRU President, Vice Admiral Andy Burns CB OBE presented retrospective caps to former members of the Royal Navy Women's Rugby Team onboard HMS Queen Elizabeth. The ceremony, which took place on the flight deck of the Royal Navy’s flagship, celebrated the contributions of women who played before official caps were awarded, recognising their pioneering efforts and commitment to the sport.

Dozens of former players gathered for the special occasion, many of whom played key roles in shaping the early years of women's rugby within the Navy. This acknowledgment reflects the growing recognition of women's rugby across the armed forces, alongside its rapid development since the sport’s formal integration into the Inter Service Championship in 2003.

Organiser Cdr Kirsty Marlor, who was instrumental in bringing this historic event to life, expressed her pride at seeing the women’s contributions formally acknowledged, "It's been a long time coming, but today is about celebrating those who paved the way for Navy women's rugby. These players showed incredible passion on the pitch, often without the recognition they deserved. It's a wrong righted and to a joy to see their efforts celebrated in such a way."

Admiral Burns echoed these sentiments during the presentation, highlighting the progress of women's rugby within the Royal Navy and praising the former players for their trailblazing role in establishing the sport. The retrospective caps represent not just the players' athletic achievements but also their impact on Navy culture and the broader rugby community.

The event marks a significant step in recognising the history of women’s sport in the Navy, and it was especially fitting that it took place aboard HMS Queen Elizabeth, a symbol of British naval strength and tradition. The recipients, many of whom laughed at their old jerseys which were projected onto a big screen, expressed their delight at receiving the long-overdue recognition.

As Navy women’s rugby continues to grow in stature, this event serves as a reminder of the sport’s rich history and the countless contributions of those who helped establish it. The retrospective caps provided by the Royal Naval Association are a powerful symbol of progress, as the Royal Navy honours its past while looking towards an even brighter future for women’s rugby.

Captain Bill Oliphant RN - CEO of the RNA said, "The RNA is delighted to play a prominent role in this presentation of caps, strengthening our ties with the Royal Navy Rugby Union and more importantly helping maintain tradition for members and future members of the Association." 

To understand what the RNA can do for you, visit their website Royal Naval Association (royal-naval-association.co.uk) and or membership information page - Membership - Royal Naval Association (royal-naval-association.co.uk). RNA membership is free and it provides a number of benefits to serving and former serving members and their families. 

Images by K Woodland