Birr RFC Senior Women win the Leinster League Division 4 Title

BIRR RFC Senior Women capped off a fantastic Leinster League Division 4 campaign with an emphatic 75–0 victory over Midland Warriors, in a performance that perfectly reflected the team’s growth, determination, and unity throughout the season.

While the Leinster League campaign has now concluded, the team’s season is not yet over, with further rugby still to come. However, finishing the league in such dominant fashion was a proud moment for the squad, their coaches, and the wider Birr RFC community.

From the opening whistle, Birr showed the confidence and cohesion that has developed over the course of the season. Strong carries, organised defence, and excellent support play allowed them to take control early and maintain the momentum throughout the match.

The starting team that delivered the memorable result featured Aoife Plunkett, Oceane Sauvanet, Sarah McGarry, Siobhán Plunkett, Megan Kinsella, Grainne Heagney, Orlaith Plunkett, Saoirse Egan, Erin O’Meara, Megan Bevans, Brenna Devery, Doireann Errity, Maeve Lyons, Una Flynn, and Faye Conroy.

They were supported by a strong bench including Rachel O’Donoghue, Sinead Burns, Kate O’Meara, Emma Raleigh, Mollie Yates, Emily Salmon, Maria Maher, Rachel Boyd, and Brónagh Guinan, each of whom has played an important role throughout the season.

Birr RFC would also like to acknowledge Midland Warriors, who proved to be excellent hosts on the day and played the game in great spirit.

The victory marked the end of an outstanding league campaign that saw Birr RFC promoted to Division 3, a remarkable achievement for a team that has only been in operation for three years.

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Following the match, the team’s success was recognised with the presentation of the league trophy by a representative from Leinster Rugby, marking a significant milestone in the short but impressive history of the women’s side at the club.

One of the defining features of this Birr team has been the incredible bond between players. That connection is evident both on and off the field and has played a major role in the team’s success.

Family ties have also been a special part of the squad this year. The O’Meara sisters, Erin and Kate, have lined out together throughout the season, while Aoife, Siobhan and Orlaith Plunkett have proudly shared the pitch as sisters representing their club.

The team is also made up of a wonderful mix of players – from those who have progressed through underage rugby structures, to others who have taken up the sport more recently and quickly become key members of the squad.

Several new players have made an immediate and valuable contribution this season. Rachel O’Donoghue, Emma Raleigh and Oceane Sauvanet have all brought energy, commitment, and quality to the squad, strengthening the team and adding to the depth available to the coaches.

Their impact reflects the welcoming environment that has developed within the group, where players of all backgrounds and experience levels can thrive.

A huge part of the team’s journey has been the dedicated supporters who have backed the women from the very beginning. Whether at home in Birr or travelling to away fixtures, often in difficult weather conditions, supporters have continued to turn out in numbers to cheer on the team. Their encouragement and enthusiasm have created a fantastic atmosphere around the squad and have been a constant source of motivation for the players.

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Behind the team’s progress is the hard work and commitment of the coaching group. Alan Purcell, Frank Higgins and Ollie Stapleton have played a huge role in guiding the squad over the past number of seasons, helping to build a team culture centred on teamwork, development, and belief.

Their dedication has helped transform a relatively new team into a strong, competitive unit capable of achieving major milestones, such as promotion. To reach Division 3 in just three years is a remarkable achievement for Birr RFC Senior Women.

The improvement from last season has been clear to see, with the players continuing to develop both individually and as a team. The squad remains open to new players of all abilities, whether they have played before or are interested in trying rugby for the first time. Anyone interested in joining is encouraged to contact team captain Maria Maher (087 6408849) for more information.

With the Leinster League campaign now complete and promotion secured, Birr RFC Senior Women can look back with pride on what they have achieved so far this season and look forward with excitement to what still lies ahead.

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