Inspiring the Next Wave of Women’s Rugby Global Ambassadors
Igniting a Passion for the Game
In the heart of rugby’s global landscape, a movement is taking shape – one that is empowering the next generation of female athletes to claim their rightful place on the pitch and beyond. As the sport continues to experience unprecedented growth, with over 2.7 million women and girls playing worldwide, the need for dynamic, trailblazing ambassadors has never been greater.
At the forefront of this transformation are inspiring individuals like Maggie Alphonsi, Portia Woodman, and Safi N’Diaye – all of whom have joined Mastercard’s esteemed roster of Global Brand Ambassadors. These women, legends in their own right, have not only excelled on the field but have also dedicated themselves to advancing the visibility and accessibility of women’s rugby across the globe.
“This partnership is all about breaking boundaries,” shares Maggie Alphonsi, a World Rugby Hall of Fame inductee and former English player. “Together with Mastercard, we will build Priceless opportunities for women’s rugby and inspire the next generation of female players and fans.”
Echoing this sentiment, Safi N’Diaye, the legendary French player, explains, “As a Mastercard Global Ambassador, I’ll have a voice and influence with a global brand that is a key supporter of women’s rugby. We share a common goal of fostering passion for the game and inspiring rising talent.”
Investing in the Future
Mastercard and World Rugby’s commitment to women’s rugby extends beyond mere sponsorship. In a groundbreaking move, they have launched the Youth Unstoppables – a unique digital content series that champions the stories of inspirational young female athletes from around the world.
“Youth Unstoppables illustrates the unique values, diversity, and inclusivity of women’s rugby,” says Katie Sadleir, World Rugby Women’s Rugby General Manager. “We are excited to work together with Mastercard to continue building on the sport’s incredible growth and increase visibility for the game around the world.”
The series, which debuts on International Day of the Girl Child 2021, aims to inspire more women and girls to play and watch the sport by showcasing the unparalleled team spirit, camaraderie, and empowerment that rugby embodies.
As Portia Woodman, the star New Zealand player, eloquently states, “When I was younger and first getting involved in rugby, a series like Youth Unstoppables would have shown me what was possible and fueled my passion for the game. I’m thrilled that this program exists for today’s youth players.”
Building Pathways for the Next Generation
The impact of the Youth Unstoppables series extends beyond mere inspiration. Following the release of each episode, World Rugby and Mastercard will be curating Priceless Experiences and content for young women who are motivated to get involved in the sport, providing them with the support and resources to nurture their passion.
“Mastercard and World Rugby are united by our unwavering commitment to the advancement of women in sports and business,” affirms Raja Rajamannar, Chief Marketing and Communications Officer at Mastercard. “Through Priceless Experiences and inspiring content, we have the opportunity to foster connections to the game with audiences around the world, encouraging young fans to follow their passion and become involved with this empowering sport.”
This multifaceted approach, combining high-profile ambassadors, captivating storytelling, and tangible opportunities for growth, is a testament to the transformative power of women’s rugby. It is a rallying call for the next wave of global ambassadors to step forward and inspire the next generation of players, coaches, and fans.
Embracing Diversity and Inclusion
At the heart of this movement is a deep-seated commitment to diversity and inclusion. By amplifying the voices and experiences of young athletes from diverse backgrounds, the Youth Unstoppables series shatters stereotypes and challenges preconceptions about who can excel in the sport.
“When you see women from all walks of life thriving on the rugby pitch, it sends a powerful message,” says Zikhona, a Youth Unstoppable from South Africa. “We are proof that rugby is a game for everyone, regardless of your background or identity. This is what truly sets our sport apart.”
The campaign’s global reach, spanning across 14 unions and six regional associations, further underscores the sport’s universal appeal. From South Africa to the United States, France to Norway, and Paraguay to beyond, the Youth Unstoppables embody the diversity and inclusivity that are the hallmarks of women’s rugby.
Cultivating a Supportive Network
As these young ambassadors take center stage, they do so with the backing of a growing network of mentors, coaches, and community leaders who are dedicated to their success. Through initiatives like grassroots skill development programs and targeted mentorship opportunities, aspiring players are being empowered to not only hone their abilities but also develop the leadership skills necessary to become the next generation of global advocates.
“The support I’ve received from my coaches and the wider rugby community has been invaluable,” shares Zikhona. “They’ve not only helped me excel on the pitch but also taught me the importance of giving back and being a role model for others. That’s what being a true ambassador is all about.”
The Future of Women’s Rugby Ambassadors
As the world gears up for the 2021 Rugby World Cup in New Zealand, the importance of women’s rugby ambassadors has never been more evident. These trailblazers are not only redefining the sport’s landscape but also paving the way for a future where the game is truly accessible and empowering for people of all backgrounds.
“The work being done by Mastercard and World Rugby is a game-changer,” reflects Maggie Alphonsi. “By elevating the voices and experiences of young women in rugby, we are sending a clear message: the future of this sport is female, and it’s brighter than ever before.”
As the Aberdeenshire RFC community continues to grow, we are honored to be part of this global movement. By embracing the values of inclusivity, leadership, and community, we are committed to nurturing the next wave of women’s rugby ambassadors who will inspire generations to come. Together, we will continue to push the boundaries of what’s possible and cement rugby’s reputation as the ultimate team sport – on and off the pitch.