Women's Rugby Union

Loughborough Rugby is proud to offer the opportunity to enjoy Rugby Union at every level. Whether you're at the top of your game, an aspiring coach, or want to play for fun, our women’s programmes provide an extensive support package to maximise your development and passion for the sport.

The Loughborough Students’ Rugby Union Women’s Club welcomes players of all abilities, fostering a culture of empowerment, leadership, and inclusivity. Whether you're a seasoned athlete or new to the sport, our club offers a supportive environment to develop your skills and grow as a player or coach.

The club fields three competitive teams: the 1st team competes in the prestigious BUCS National League (top tier), the 2nd team in BUCS Premier North, and a newly introduced 3rd team in BUCS Midlands Tier 2. These teams provide opportunities for players to compete at various levels, from elite to developmental.

Regular training sessions focus on technical skills, game strategy, and physical conditioning, supported by expert coaching to help every member reach their potential. For those looking for a more social experience, the club also offers recreational play and opportunities to engage in coaching or leadership roles. With a strong sense of community, Loughborough Rugby Union Women’s Club ensures every member can thrive both on and off the pitch.

Ways you can play

A women's rugby union match in progress and one player is being lifted in the air holding the ball

Performance

The rugby programme benefits from formal partnerships with England 7s, and the RFU, which allows us to deliver a high performance programme to support aspiring and current internationals.

Go to Performance Women's Rugby Union

Loughborough Lightning

We proudly represent Loughborough University as part of the Loughborough Lightning family and are committed to women’s high-performance sport.

Go to Loughborough Lightning

A women's rugby union match in progress and one player is running with the ball

Athletic Union (AU)

Loughborough Students’ Rugby Union Women’s Club fosters a culture of empowerment, encouraging players to take ownership of their performance and develop leadership skills.

Welcoming all abilities, the club supports three teams: the 1st team competing in the BUCS National League (top tier), the 2nd team in BUCS Premier North, and a new 3rd team in BUCS Midlands Tier 2.

With comprehensive training programmes focused on technical skills, strategy, and fitness, alongside opportunities for recreational play and coaching, the club provides an inclusive and supportive environment. Whether you're aiming for elite competition or simply want to enjoy rugby, Loughborough Rugby Union offers the resources and community to help every member succeed.

Training takes place up to three times a week on the 1st XV Rugby Pitch and PEC.

What is the Athletic Union?

Two players on the rugby pitch and one is about to catch the ball

Hall Sport

The Women’s Rugby Union IMS League is a fun, friendly and competitive competition open to all students living in or affiliated with a hall (excluding AU Rugby players).

Fixtures run throughout the year, with the league champion crowned at the end. Top performers progress to the Super Series, an elite post-exam competition featuring four teams coached and officiated by AU players and staff.

From there, the best are selected for the IMS All-Stars, who face BUCS 4s in a showcase finale. Outstanding All-Stars may even be invited to pre-season with AU Rugby. 

Women’s Rugby at Loughborough is about opportunity, development and being part of something bigger, whatever your level.

What is Hall Sport?

Get in touch

Joining the AU team is done at the start of the year during Freshers, where you can meet the coaches.

If you'd like to get in touch about Women's Rugby Union, complete our enquiry form.