Sixteen talented players from the Oaklands Wolves Women’s Rugby Academy, part of the Saracens Pathway, have taken a major step forward in their rugby careers after successfully completing the prestigious England Rugby Coaching Award (ERCA).

This achievement has been made possible through funding secured via Impact ’25, the Rugby World Cup 2025 legacy programme designed to drive transformational change in the women’s game. The initiative aims to empower the next generation of female leaders in rugby by providing accessible development pathways both on and off the field.

The England Rugby Coaching Award is the recognised entry point for coaches working with players aged U12 and above. The competency-based course blends face-to-face training days with ongoing community support and in-situ tasks, equipping learners with the skills, knowledge and confidence to coach young people and adults safely and effectively.

“This is a fantastic milestone for these young women,” said Niamh McHugh, Saracens Women's Rugby Pathway Lead. “Not only are they growing as players within the Saracens Pathway, but they’re now qualified to give back to the game as coaches. It’s a real testament to their dedication and passion for rugby.”

The successful completion of the ERCA by these 16 players reflects the growing opportunities for female athletes to shape the future of the sport—whether through elite performance, community impact, or leadership.

For more on the Impact ’25 programme, visit: https://www.englandrugby.com/follow/news-and-media/rfu-celebrates-transformational-womens-rwc25-legacy-programme