The RFL launches new Women’s Health Programme to support coaches in the Female Game

The RFL is proud to announce the launch of its new Women and Girls Health Programme, an innovative coach education initiative designed to improve understanding of female health and wellbeing within Rugby League.

Aiming to equip coaches with the knowledge, confidence and practical tools needed to better support women and girls participating in the sport. The programme will entail continued professional development opportunities; offering coaches insights and an educated understanding of the unique challenges female athletes may face. 

The Women and Girls Health Programme is the first initiative of its kind within Rugby League and forms part of the RFL’s wider commitment to growing and strengthening the female game.  

Developed in response to an increasing awareness of the barriers women and girls can experience in sport, including menstrual health, body confidence and wellbeing challenges. The RFL are proud and excited to support coaches through education and open conversation, and to create a more inclusive and supportive environments where female players can thrive.

To support the launch, the RFL will release an official campaign video on Tuesday 19 May 2026 across its digital and social media channels. The video will highlight the importance of understanding women’s health in sport and feature voices from female DiSE (England’s pathway, Diploma of Sporting Excellence) players, amplifying the importance of the programme and its potential impact. 

Ellis Pascall the RFL’s Coach Development Officer, said: 

“Women and girls deserve environments where they feel understood, supported and confident to participate in Rugby League. Coaches play a vital role in shaping those experiences, and this programme is designed to give them the knowledge and confidence to provide the best possible support.” 
 
The programme will include: 

• Four online CPD webinars delivered throughout the year 
• Supporting educational resources and learning materials 
• Opportunities for discussion and practical application 
• An end-of-year conference focused on female health and performance in Rugby League

The initiative will initially engage all coaches across the women and girls’ game, with ambitions for continued growth and long-term impact across the sport.

Webinar Details:

Menstrual Cycle and Hormonal Health - Monday 29th June 2026 

Nutrition - TBC 

Injury Surveillance and Prevention - Thursday 10th September  

Coaching Behaviours - Monday 19th October  

End of year forum – TBC 

Don’t miss out, register here!

Ellis Pascall the RFL’s Coach Development Officer, said:

“Women and girls deserve environments where they feel understood, supported and confident to participate in Rugby League. Coaches play a vital role in shaping those experiences, and this programme is designed to give them the knowledge and confidence to provide the best possible support.”