Jo Yapp Makes History as First Women's Coach for British and Irish Lions

A Historic Appointment

Former England captain Jo Yapp has officially been named the first head coach of the British and Irish Lions women's team for the upcoming tour of New Zealand. This pivotal moment in rugby history not only marks a significant advancement for the sport but also reflects the growing recognition of women's contributions to rugby.

With a career spanning over a decade, Yapp amassed an impressive 70 caps as a scrum-half and was a key player during three World Cups, leading the Red Roses to the World Cup final in 2006. Having transitioned into coaching with roles at England Women Under-20s, Worcester Warriors Women, and even the Barbarians, Yapp comes into this role with a wealth of experience and a vision to build something extraordinary.

“To lead the first-ever British and Irish Lions women's team is an incredible honour and something I'm immensely proud of,” said Yapp.

Looking Ahead to the Tour

The Lions women's tour kicks off with a warm-up match against a Black Ferns XV in Whangarei on September 4, before embarking on three Tests in Auckland, Wellington, and Christchurch. It's a formidable schedule that promises to challenge the players, especially facing the Black Ferns on their home turf.

Yapp embraces this challenge with enthusiasm. “I know from experience how challenging it is to face the Black Ferns on home soil, but that challenge is exactly what makes this tour so exciting,” she stated. Her focus will be on selecting a superb squad that showcases the vast talent across England, Ireland, Scotland, and Wales.

The Journey to Inclusion

Ben Calverley, British and Irish Lions chief executive, voiced his strong support for Yapp's appointment, emphasizing the importance of growing and supporting all aspects of women's rugby. “Her breadth of experience across the UK club game and the international women's game in the southern hemisphere made her an outstanding candidate,” he remarked.

The appointment of Yapp is not just about Rugby Union but also about supporting female coaches in a male-dominated space. The hope is that this move will inspire a new generation of female coaches and players alike.

Building the Coaching Team

One of Yapp's significant tasks will be to shape her coaching team. The speculation around potential coaching appointments includes names such as ex-Wales captain Rachel Taylor and current English coaches like Sarah Hunter and Emily Scarratt, who recently helped the Red Roses to an eighth consecutive Grand Slam.

• Potential Coaching Candidates:
• Rachel Taylor: Former Barbarians Women coach with a proven track record.
• Sarah Hunter: Current England linebacker with immense experience.
• Emily Scarratt: An invaluable asset for the attacking strategy.
• Louis Deacon: Forwards coach who brings depth to the team's strategy.
• Other possible candidates include former head coaches Giselle Mather and Susie Appleby from PWR.

While the coaching lineup is yet to be established, it's essential for Yapp to avoid resembling an England tour, given the dominance of the Red Roses in international competitions.

The Road Ahead

The women's tour is not expected to create a mirror image of the men's equivalent. Yapp's role will not only involve coaching but also navigating the complexities that come with being the figurehead of this historic team. As we look forward to 2027 in New Zealand, it's clear that women's rugby is evolving, with Yapp at the forefront of this progress.

“This tour presents an opportunity to create something truly special and help shape the future of women's rugby for years to come,” Yapp concluded.

Final Thoughts

As we celebrate this landmark appointment, let's recognize the importance of fostering diversity within sports leadership roles. Yapp's journey is about more than just rugby; it's about paving a path for future female coaches and players who aspire to greatness in every aspect of sport.