The USA’s first pro-league, the WER, has announced its first moves towards a second season.
We now know the names of the head coaches of the six franchises. Five of them remain from 2025; the newcomer is Kristin Zdanczewicz, who takes over at Chicago Tempest.
At you might guess, Tempest finished bottom last season.
The other five are: Sarah Chobot at trophy-winners, Denver Onyx, Hannah Stolba at Bay Breakers (San Francisco), Kittery Ruiz at Boston Banshees, Sylvia Braaten at TC (Twin Cities) Gemini, and Diego Maquieira at New York Exiles.
As you can see, five of the six are women. This makes a striking contrast with any other league you may be acquainted with.
A Reminder
The concept of the WER was a highly ambitious undertaking by US Rugby to enhance standards in the women’s game.
With just six franchises across the nation from Boston to San Francisco, it was hard for the organisers to make a national impact. The good news is that they are looking at a second season in 2026.
From the start in 2023 there were hopes the tournament would grow in strength and numbers. The second ambition is not yet fulfilled; still only the six franchises.
Much will depend on the next stage, known as “Player Declarations”, due to begin on 1 December. Will players stay loyal to last season’s sides, or seek their fortune elsewhere?
Last season’s standings are intriguing. Onyx, by far the strongest squad, won 10 games out of 11; below them Breakers, Banshees and Exiles all won six. Gemini won three, leaving Tempest marooned in the basement. There is plenty of healthy competition.
One decisive step would come when leading players now operating in the PWR decide to return to the States. I fear that remains a distant prospect.
A central factor is support services. USA Rugby is throwing its weight behind coaching initiatives. But when applicants for courses are told they must pay for flights to and from Atlanta, we see stumbling-blocks.
Meanwhile there is a lull in USA rugby, heightened by the wait for news of a replacement for Sione Fukofuka, who announced last September his wish to return to his family in Australia. A decision is expected early next year.
We can be sure World Rugby is taking the closest interest in these developments.
