Rugby Union SA has adapted Rugby Australia's program Rugby Her Way for the 2026 U16s Youth Girls, an initiative aimed at growing and supporting girls’ participation in rugby across South Australia.
The program bridges the gap between mixed-gender junior rugby and women’s rugby, helping girls stay engaged in the game during key dropout years.
Rugby Her Way provides clear and inclusive pathways for girls aged 14-16, creating opportunities to learn the game in a safe, welcoming, and age-appropriate environment. The program is designed to build confidence, develop skills, and foster lifelong friendships, while removing many of the barriers that traditionally prevent girls from staying involved in sport.
With a strong focus on community, Rugby Her Way also supports the development of female coaches and volunteers, strengthening local clubs and ensuring sustainable growth of the women’s game.
The competition encourages local rugby clubs to form teams, building sustainable female pathways within clubs while strengthening community connection.
Rugby experience is not required to take part, and all abilities are welcome. Families interested in learning more are encouraged to connect with Rugby Union SA or their local rugby club to find out how to get involved.
Week 1, Friday 6 March @ University Playing Fields West Beach, 75 mins, Intro + catch-pass
Week 2, Friday 13 March, @ University Playing Fields West Beach, 75 mins, Carry & Contact
Week 3, Friday 20 March, @ University Playing Fields West Beach, 75 mins, Tackle Contest + Set-Piece 7s
Week 4, Friday 27 March, @ University Playing Fields West Beach, 45 mins, Set-Piece 7s followed by Round 1 - Club 7s match
Week 5, Friday 10 April, @ Southern Suburbs, 45 mins, Kicking followed by Round 2 - Club 7s match
Week 6 , Friday 17 April, @ Southern Suburbs, 45 mins, Clarity & Game Play followed by Round 3 - Club 7s match
Week 7, Friday 24 April, @ Southern Suburbs, 75 mins, Introduction to 10s + set-piece
Week 8, Friday 1 May, @ Southern Suburbs, 30 mins, 10s set-piece followed by Round 4 - Zone 10s match
Week 9, Friday 8 May, @ Southern Suburbs, Round 5 - Zone 10s
Week 10, Friday 15 May, @ Southern Suburbs, Round 6 - Zone 10s
Week 11, Friday 22 May, venue TBC, 75 mins, Transition to 15s
Week 12, Friday 29 May, venue TBC, Red v Blue 15s match (Rep Trial U16 girls for national youth)
Week 13 , Saturday 6 June, Barossa, Red v Blue 15s Exhibition Match @ RugbyFest (curtain raiser to Women’s Challenge Cup GF) Rep Trial U16 girls for national youth
