During 40 Hours for the Forty Acres, the Texas Women’s Rugby team aims to raise money
for the growth of a sport that allows young women to realize their full potential mentally
and physically. This year, our goal is to raise $3,000 to put towards new equipment, travel
expenses, and financial aid to those who would otherwise not be able to play. Players are
required to register through USA rugby, and the $90 fee can be a financial burden to
many. We believe that every woman deserves an equal chance to perform to her full
potential.
The University of Texas Women's Rugby Club is a student-run club team affiliated with the
University of Texas at Austin. Founded in 2005, Texas Women's Rugby has quickly made a
name for itself. In the past 4 years, we have attended national-level tournaments in both
7s and 15s.
Two years ago, we brought on a new head coach and assistant coach. Both are University
of Texas alumni who are generously volunteering their time to share their passion for
rugby. Additionally, we have added many rookie players. These new players are going to be
the next generation of our team, and one of our focuses for fundraising this year is to
build opportunities and structure for our new players as we go forward.
Our goal is to raise money for equipment, travel expenses, financial aid for players, and
athletic trainers. All of these things will allow for better opportunities for our players and
will help grow our team and empower young women.
Equipment - We practice three days a week, and with that level of use our equipment gets
worn out pretty quickly. We need to be able to replace this equipment as it wears to
continue to improve our skills. This year we are looking to get new and safer tackle and
scrum equipment.
Travel – When we travel to our matches, we have to pay for van rentals and hotel stays.
In the past, the cost of travel has either been a burden on our players or been so high
that it prevented us from being as competitive as our team could be. If we have more
funds available to cover these expenses, we will be able to accept invitations to more
competitive matches without overburdening our student athletes.
Financial Aid for Players: Not only do players have to register through USA rugby, but they
are also required to get yearly physicals to ensure they are physically fit for a full contact
sport. These are not small fees, and we do everything we can do help our teammates that
struggle with these costs. We want every woman to have the support and help they need
to excel in the sport and to excel to their full potential.
In addition, some of the money we raise will go towards trainers – Most of the women who
join our team have never played a full contact sport, so the health of our players is
critical. Our personal trainer is present at every practice and game to aid in injury
prevention and answer players’ health-related questions.
Together we are louder. Together we are stronger. Together, we are Texas Women's Rugby
