Cliodhna Moloney‑MacDonald speaks with quiet determination and big ambition as her Irish Women’s Rugby team prepares to take on the world. She has a quiet confidence and has recently expressed her desire for the team to leave its mark on the upcoming tournament. It’s more than just rugby to these women — it’s about expanding women’s sport in Ireland, growing grassroots support, and inspiring fans to proudly rally behind the team.
A Sport Renewed
Despite continued setbacks for many years, the women’s game has made huge strides in popularity recently. Women’s rugby is becoming vastly popular throughout the UK. Among the most popular betting sites not on GamStop, there are already markets being offered on the tournament, and Ireland currently stands at around odds of around 50/1 to win the Women’s Rugby World Cup. The tournament is set to take place from 22 August to 27 September 2025 in England.
Such offers bring perks like enhanced odds, favoured deposit methods (including crypto), and flexible limits compared to UK‑regulated platforms. These odds reflect respect for Ireland’s potential, balanced with realism — strong enough to tempt punters, long enough to reward a shock run. They also offer invaluable opportunities for more people to engage with the game, enhancing popularity for women’s rugby in the process through the added visibility sports betting brings.
Proud, Resilient, Inspired
Moloney‑MacDonald’s voice carries warmth and pride. She talks of the journey from grassroots to international caps, of the pride in wearing green and how that fuels the squad. There’s a sense that this team is more than just athletes — they are ambassadors, carrying the hopes of local club players and fans across small towns and big cities alike.
Building a Broader Movement
It’s not just about match results. The focus extends far beyond the pitches. Moloney‑MacDonald and teammates talk of using the World Cup as a way to energise entire communities, boost attendance at domestic fixtures, and open pathways for girls picking up a ball for the first time. Their ambitions for local women’s rugby include public club outreach, increased media coverage, and stronger ties between national heroes and local development programmes.
Eyes on the Prize
While Ireland may not head into the tournament as favourites — bookies favour England or New Zealand — the squad knows anything is possible. New Zealand have dominated in recent tournaments and look strong again. This isn’t about shocked upsets, but measured growth: incremental wins, positive performances against top teams, and gradually shifting perceptions. The odds are long, but so is their resolve. A couple of standout wins and those odds could shorten fast.
Every training session, public appearance, and match is part of a larger tapestry. Whether inspired fans stand in sunny stands at Twickenham or gather in community centres watching on screens, Moloney‑MacDonald believes the impact will linger — long after the final whistle.
In a world where women’s sport is still fighting for equal space, the Irish squad’s legacy plan feels both modest and lofty. It’s about showing what’s possible, inspiring the next wave, and nurturing a sport that blossoms with public passion and support. All while representing Ireland with grace, pride and unyielding belief.
