Richmond's female athletes and coaches enjoy World Cup final celebrations

Many local women and girls were among the record-breaking crowd at last weekend’s Rugby World Cup finals in recognition of their brilliant contributions to local sport and community life.

Attendees nominated by their club

Among the attendees were local female volunteers and coaches, who were nominated by their clubs and organisations for the positive differences they continue to make. Let's meet a couple of them.

Emily

Emily was nominated for her extraordinary contribution to sport as a volunteer, administrator, coach, official, and role model for over 25 years at West London Lacrosse.

After the match Emily said: “I was absolutely ecstatic to meet my rugby heroes! With connections to both England and Canada, it was truly a win-win situation!”

Maia

Maia is a coach, volunteer and current President at Ranelagh Harriers running club. As the club’s third female president in over 150 years, she was nominated for being a breath of fresh air and boosting social engagement in the club, along with many other achievements.

Maia said: “What an amazing day – the games were fantastic, and what a great showcase for women’s sport!”

London Youth Games athletes

Female athletes who represented Richmond at this year’s London Youth Games were invited to apply to be at the Allianz Stadium on matchday, in celebration of Team Richmond’s stellar second place result in this year’s games. Two of those representing Team Richmond on matchday were Elosie and Lottie.

Eloise

“Because I play rugby it was like a dream come true to see my heroes play. I was counting down the days leading up to the finals day and when we finally arrived there, the atmosphere was amazing. To see thousands of seats filled with excited people looking forward to the game was incredible. 

“When the players walked out onto the pitch and sung our national anthem, I felt so special to be part of history! It was honestly a once in a lifetime experience - every single person there was so happy.”

Lottie

“It was the best experience watching England win. The women were skilful and powerful and I want to be like that playing sport!”

Supporting women and girls in sport

We’re committed to building on a glorious summer of women’s sport by supporting women and girls’ sport in Richmond upon Thames, a key aim of our Richmond Moves for a Healthier Borough strategy.

If you’re feeling inspired by the Red Roses’ success and want to kick off your moving more journey, take one of these steps:

• Join our free Richmond Moves mailing list 
• Join the Richmond Moves Facebook group
• Find an activity near you using our Activity Finder 
• Connect with Richmond’s Women and Girls Working Group by emailing sportsdevelopment@richmond.gov.uk