New Ireland defence coach Hugh Hogan praises the depth and competitive spirit of the 2024 Ireland Women’s Rugby squad ahead of the upcoming test match against Australia.

 Hugh Hogan, Ireland’s recently appointed defence coach, has expressed enthusiasm about his first six weeks in the role. After stepping in for Declan Danaher, Hogan joined Scott Bemand’s coaching team in August, bringing his experience from Leinster, Scarlets, and Tokyo Suntory Sungoliath. Since joining, Hogan has been impressed with the quality and competitive edge of the 35-player squad that is training for the one-off Test against Australia at Kingspan Stadium this Saturday. The 2024 Ireland Women’s Rugby team’s preparation has particularly highlighted their strength and potential.

Reflecting on his initial weeks, Hogan said, “It’s been awesome, I’m really enjoying it. It’s been incredibly competitive, and that’s exactly where we want to be.” His excitement stems from the depth of talent in the squad, an essential factor for building a successful team. Hogan emphasized that getting into the training squad was no easy feat, with four weeks of intense Interprovincial (Interpro) games making the selection process particularly tough.

Ireland’s squad is preparing for more than just the Australia Test. Once that match is over, the squad will be trimmed down to 30 players as they look ahead to their WXV1 campaign, featuring matchups against rugby powerhouses New Zealand, Canada, and the United States. The performance of the 2024 Ireland Women’s Rugby team in these upcoming fixtures will be crucial for their success in the tournament.

Hogan is determined to build upon the defensive work laid out by his predecessor. “We want to be aggressive and have a mindset of getting the ball back. It’s really important we build on the foundations laid during the Six Nations, and I’m trying to add layers to what’s already in place,” Hogan explained.

Though Ireland is missing several key players due to injuries—including captain Sam Monaghan, Beibhinn Parsons, and Sadhbh McGrath—the team has been bolstered by the return of five Olympians from Ireland’s sevens team. Stacey Flood, Eve Higgins, Emily Lane, and Amee-Leigh Murphy Crowe have returned to the squad after competing in the Paris Olympic Games, bringing valuable experience and energy.

Hogan was quick to highlight the positive influence of the sevens players, who have seamlessly integrated into the team despite the challenges of switching formats. “They’ve been a wonderful boost,” Hogan said. “These are highly experienced athletes in one version of the game who are now getting up to speed in another. They’ve shown a positive attitude, they’re ready to learn, and they’re asking all the right questions.”

With the blend of fresh Olympic talent and established players, Ireland’s squad has fostered an environment that is both competitive and collaborative. Hogan is confident that this depth will serve the team well in the upcoming Australia Test and the demanding WXV1 campaign ahead.

Analysis

Political: The competitiveness of the Ireland squad has implications for the broader landscape of women’s rugby in Ireland and beyond. With Rugby World Cup events drawing global attention, the rise of competitive squads like Ireland’s not only enhances national pride but also positions the team as a potential contender on the international stage. Furthermore, Ireland’s commitment to developing talent from the grassroots to elite levels reflects the political backing of women’s sports in the country, pushing for greater recognition and support at both the local and national levels. The strong performance of the 2024 Ireland Women’s Rugby team exemplifies this growing support and ambition.

Social: The success and visibility of Ireland’s rugby squad send an important message about the growing significance of women’s sports. Historically, women’s rugby has not received the same attention as its male counterpart, but the presence of Olympians and experienced professionals like those in the current squad highlights the strides being made towards equality in sports. Additionally, Hogan’s leadership and his praise for the team’s attitude demonstrate a progressive culture where women athletes are encouraged to be fierce, competitive, and confident in their abilities.

Racial: Rugby, both in Ireland and internationally, continues to tackle issues related to diversity and inclusion. The current Ireland squad presents an opportunity to discuss the broader issue of representation in rugby, particularly at the elite level. While racial diversity in rugby remains an evolving conversation, the inclusivity within Ireland’s team culture emphasizes the importance of providing opportunities for players from various backgrounds. Hogan’s collaborative approach highlights how diverse perspectives within a team can enhance performance and create a positive, dynamic environment.

Gender: Hogan’s praise for the Ireland squad underscores the growing prominence of women in rugby, an area that has traditionally been male-dominated. With seven players returning from the Olympic Games, Ireland’s team showcases how women are excelling across multiple formats of the sport. This dual-format success also challenges gendered assumptions about rugby, a sport often viewed through a male-centric lens. The success and competitiveness of the women’s team not only elevate the status of women’s rugby in Ireland but also challenge societal norms about female athletes and their potential on the world stage.

Economical: The rise of women’s rugby, particularly at the international level, has significant economic implications. As more attention is drawn to women’s sports, increased sponsorships, media deals, and commercial opportunities follow. Ireland’s squad, with its star-studded Olympic players and competitive edge, will likely attract greater media coverage and sponsorships, which can lead to enhanced funding for women’s rugby programs. Furthermore, the development of players through both sevens and fifteens reflects a multi-dimensional approach to player growth, opening up broader economic opportunities for athletes to thrive across different formats.