IRFU appoints Lynne Cantwell as Head of Women's Rugby Strategy
Lynne Cantwell was part of the Irish team which won the Grand Slam in 2013
©PA
The Irish Rugby Football Union (IRFU) has appointed former Ireland international Lynne Cantwell as the new head of women’s strategy for Irish Rugby.
Cantwell, who earned 86 caps during her career and was part of Ireland’s 2013 Grand Slam-winning team, will take up her new role in January 2024.
As Ireland's most-capped women’s rugby player, Cantwell's appointment is a significant step in advancing women's rugby in the country.
This move aligns with the IRFU’s recently launched Rugby in Ireland plan, which aims to accelerate the growth and development of women's rugby at all levels.
Cantwell’s leadership will focus on shaping a strategy that supports the continued expansion of the women's game, building on the growing momentum and interest in women’s rugby both nationally and globally.
Cantwell is currently the women’s high-performance manager for the South African Rugby Union (SARU), a position she will continue to hold part-time to facilitate a smooth leadership transition in South Africa. Her experience in managing high-performance programs will be key as she returns to Irish Rugby in a strategic capacity.
“I am excited about joining the IRFU at a time when there is much commitment and optimism around the women’s game,” said Cantwell.
“Having started my own rugby career through the club and domestic game in Ireland, I am passionate about the journey for women and girls taking up and playing the sport and ensuring they experience a pathway from bottom to top that enables them to reach their full potential.”
