The Celtic Challenge Expands its Reach in Rugby Union
The Celtic Challenge, a rugby union competition launched in 2022, has experienced a significant expansion this season. The tournament, which initially involved three teams, now features six squads, with the inclusion of teams from Scotland.
The Welsh national team is represented by Brython Thunder and Gwalia Lightning, while Ireland has the Irish Wolfhounds and Clovers, and Scotland fields Edinburgh and Glasgow Warriors. This year’s tournament was won by the Wolfhounds, with Edinburgh securing the second spot.
“The competition has already proved its value from a performance point of view and serves as a pivotal step in the pathway to professional and international recognition.” – Nigel Walker, Welsh Rugby Union’s executive director of rugby
The Celtic Challenge has proven to be a valuable platform for player development, with 68 participants going on to feature in the Six Nations, including eight making their Test debuts. The competition is a key component of the Welsh Rugby Union’s strategy for the women’s game, having already provided opportunities for several players, such as Gwennan Hopkins, Sian Jones, Molly Reardon, Catherine Richards, and Mollie Wilkinson, to showcase their talents and subsequently earn their Wales debuts in the Six Nations.
🔗 Source
