IWD interview with Dave Purcell, Creggs RFC Club President.
The theme for International Women’s Day this year was #AccelerateAction for gender equality, with this in mind we reached out to one of our own customers who are making great strides in this space, Creggs RFC President Dave Purcell to see what changes they have been implementing at their club to promote equality.
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Club Name:
Creggs RFC -
Sport:
Rugby -
Location:
The Green, Creggs, Co. Galway
“In recent years, Creggs RFC has been on a transformative journey to enhance female participation at all levels. Since the introduction of girls’ rugby, we have remained steadfast in our mission to create an inclusive environment where women not only play but also lead, coach, and influence the future of the sport”.
A Space Designed by Women, for Women
“One of the most significant steps we have taken is the development of a new dressing room with individual showers, designed by women for women. This investment is not just about facilities; it’s about ensuring comfort, respect, and a welcoming atmosphere that encourages more girls to stay in the game. We understand that creating the right environment is essential to retaining players and fostering a sense of belonging within the club”.
Women Leading the Way
“Our commitment to female representation goes beyond the playing field. Currently, all managers of the girls’ and adult women’s teams must be women. In just two years, we have increased female representation on our committee to 25%, with a goal of reaching 40% by the end of 2026. Some of the highest positions in Creggs RFC are now held by women, including Club Welfare Officer (CWO), Head of Minis, Secretary and Treasurer.
To further strengthen the voice of women in rugby, we have secured representation on the Schools Committee (Girls’ Schools Rep), the Connacht Women’s Representative Group, and the Connacht Season Development Plan sessions. This ensures that the girls’ season is tailored to their specific needs rather than being a mere replica of the boys’ schedule”.
A Thriving Pathway from Minis to Seniors
Creggs have built a strong girls underage structure, with teams at every level:
- Minis
- U14s (35 girls)
- U16s (24 girls)
- U18s (24 girls)
- Senior team (33 registered players)
“Our senior women’s side, now in their second year, has already achieved remarkable success. They won the Invitational Plate, reached the Connacht Senior Women’s League Final, and are set to compete in the AIL Cup next season. Additionally, we had three representatives in the Ireland U18 squad last year and two this year.
Understanding the natural progression of talent, we recognise that some players will move on to the AIL and beyond. However, our goal is to sustain our senior team by promoting 4-5 players from the U18s each year, ensuring long-term stability despite inevitable drop-offs due to travel and other commitments”.
Fostering Continuous Growth and New Leadership
“To maintain momentum and encourage fresh perspectives, we have implemented a club constitution that limits how long any member can stay on the committee. This ensures regular leadership renewal and the introduction of new ideas. Women play a crucial role in this process, bringing enthusiasm, expertise, and perspectives that drive innovation and inclusivity.
Our journey is far from over, but we are proud of the progress we have made in promoting women’s rugby at Creggs RFC. By creating welcoming spaces, fostering female leadership, and developing a sustainable player pathway, we are ensuring that women’s rugby continues to thrive within our club and beyond”.
Dave Purcell, Creggs RFC Club President.
