As we approach the kick-off for the second year of our Far North Coast (FNC) Open Women’s Rugby Sponsorship, we are taking the opportunity to reflect on how we helped to empower female athletes in 2025 and look forward at the goals we hope to support and deliver upon in 2026.
Our partnership with the FNC Open Women’s Competition stands on the shoulders of a shared passion for community, inclusion, opportunity and growth, and keen interest in tackling barriers to equality wherever they appear.
2025 Sponsorship
In just its first year, our sponsorship of FNC Women’s Rugby increased the visibility and presence of the competition and vastly improved accessibility and opportunities for female athletes. During our 2025 sponsorship, the FNC Open Women’s Competition achieved every pitch deck goal, including:
- Growth in participation and visibility: The 2025 competition witnessed an expansion from 4 to 7 clubs and a rise from 105 female open players in 2024 to 167 in 2025.
- Removal of barriers to participation: The FNC Open Women’s Country Champs Prep Camp was able to supply a fully catered and accommodated two-day rugby-focused training environment, including child-minding to support parents and carers and clear their path for participation.
- Professional preparation: The FNC was able to supply a full kit provision and elite training camp to its players.
For the first time in the competition’s history, there were zero forfeits throughout the season, which ended in a historic result of 4th place at the NSW Country Championships, the best result achieved since the program began.
2026 Sponsorship
As the sponsorship enters its second year, we will be supporting the FNC Open Women’s Competition in its pursuit of achieving a new thread of goals following its expansion to an 8-club, 12-A-Side competition.
- Development and creation of performance pathways: The establishment of a dedicated Women’s Scrum School, Women’s Rugby Coach Development Day, introduction of female-specific skills libraries and drill resources, and non-negotiable filming and livestreams of 1st Grade matches for Hudl/FrameSports analysis and player feedback.
- Recruitment and retention: Strengthening recruitment through schools and junior pathways and retention through leadership scholarships and mentoring for emerging players.
- Recognition and culture: Introduction of formal Volunteer and Referee Recognition Awards celebrating contributors and continuation of the “Caught being Awesome” program to showcase sportsmanship and leadership.
We are incredibly proud to be the naming sponsor for the BRS Cup Competition again in 2026 to continue to bolster female athletes alongside FNC Women’s Rugby. You can keep up with the progress of the season by following FNC Rugby on Instagram (@fncrugby) or by following our LinkedIn for updates.
Photo credit: FNC Rugby
