Community women’s rugby boosted by new appointment

New Zealand Rugby (NZR) appointed Emily Davidson as Head of Women and Girls Community Rugby earlier this year, a new role created following the launch of NZR’s Women and Girls Rugby System Strategy.   

Davidson’s appointment fulfils one of the organisation’s key priorities in the Women and Girls in Rugby action plan which includes the establishment of six dedicated women’s rugby roles across community, high performance and commercial.  

“The appointment of an NZR Head of Women and Girls Community Rugby role is a crucial step towards the System Strategy’s implementation,” NZR General Manager of Community Rugby Steve Lancaster said.  

“Emily is extremely passionate about improving opportunities and experiences for girls and women in rugby. I’m excited to see the positive impact she will bring to the organisation and across the community game.”  

Davidson previously worked at Golf New Zealand where she spent the past six years in several leadership roles, most recently as their National Participation and Inclusion Manager.  

She led the development and implementation of golf's national strategies that improve the opportunities and experiences of under-represented groups, in particular women and girls, disability and rainbow communities. 

Davidson said with rugby being at the heart of so many New Zealand communities, the job gives her an opportunity to influence positive social change to create safe, quality experiences in the game.  

“Rugby is a game for everyone. Being able to contribute to a more diverse and inclusive rugby system to ensure everyone can fulfil their aspirations without barriers is exciting to be a part of,” Davidson said.   

“While the entire rugby system is collectively responsible for the leadership and implementation of the System Strategy, it’s really important to have a focused and cohesive approach.”