First Royal Navy Women’s Veterans Rugby Team Set to Make History

In an exciting development for women’s rugby, plans are underway to form the first-ever Royal Navy Women’s Veterans (Vets – over 35s) rugby team, affectionately dubbed the ‘Mermaids’. The idea was sparked during a recent Rugby Football Union conference in London, where a chance conversation between Royal Navy Director of Community Rugby, Lt Cdr Jane West and a member of Surrey County Rugby Union Board (CB) led to the challenge of organising a match for December.

The proposed fixture will see the Mermaids take on a Surrey CB women’s vets team in a non-contact T1 rugby match, scheduled for Sunday, 7 December at Esher RFC, with kick-off at 14:00. The President of the RFU, Debs Griffin, has also pledged her attendance, adding a touch of prestige to the event.

The initiative has been met with enthusiasm, particularly among former Royal Navy women’s rugby players. Following the success of last year’s retrospective caps campaign, spearheaded by Cdr Kirsty Marlor, many players expressed how much they missed the camaraderie, the sport, and the unique feeling that comes with being part of a team. This match offers a chance to reunite, rekindle old friendships, and create new memories.

The Mermaids will be open to all serving women aged 35 and over, regardless of previous experience with Royal Navy rugby. The organisers are keen to emphasise inclusivity, encouraging anyone interested to join, whether they can take to the field or support the team in other capacities, such as being part of the Team Support Group (TSG).

Recognising that many players may not be able to play full-contact rugby, the match will follow RFU T1 rugby rules, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience for all participants. The weekend will also include a light training session and a team meal in Portsmouth on Saturday, 6 December, before travelling to Esher for the game the following day.

The event is being organised as an RNRU community fixture. An Authorisation Order (AO) will be produced in due course.

Organisers are now calling on all eligible players to confirm their interest as soon as possible to finalise arrangements. The hope is to bring together a diverse group of women, united by their love of rugby and the Royal Navy, to make history as the first RN Women’s Vets team.

With the promise of playing under the watchful eye of the RFU President, the Mermaids are set to make a splash. Whether on the field or cheering from the sidelines, this event promises to be a memorable occasion for all involved.

For those interested in joining or supporting the team, please spread the word and get in touch with the organisers. Let’s make this dream a reality and show the rugby world what the Mermaids are made of!

If interested in playing a part email jane.west549@mod.gov.uk