Have you noticed anything a little bit different?
It’s time for a change. After consultation with all our members and approval from the club, Sheffield RUFC Ladies are becoming Sheffield RUFC Women. We understand that ‘Sheff Ladies’ holds a really special place in many hearts after a long and illustrious history, so first let us explain why the change and why now:
INCLUSION: Our section is made up of women and non-binary members. We want to show our commitment to including all players, past current and future. Discussions around the name concluded with ‘women’ being chosen as the most objective way to distinguish ourselves from the men’s teams and that our social media bios, website, and ethos will reflect our inclusion of non-binary and gender minority players.
SEMANTICS: Since our inception in 1996, the word ‘ladies’ has undergone pejoration. Research has shown that ‘ladies’ has become increasingly informal and is now often associated with ‘frailty’, ‘being lady-like’, ‘gentility’ and ‘weakness’. Many of these associations are not compatible with rugby and all its players! Women on the other hand is still seen as more objective, neutral and professional.
PROFESSIONALISM: Our section always strives to be the best it can be – in results, environment, coaching, inclusions and much more. Our players train incredibly hard, and the coaches and committee work tirelessly to develop the section. A change to honour this is overdue.
STAYING CURRENT: “Women’s rugby” is what the vast majority call our sport. England Rugby use women and not ladies in all marketing, league names and more. Most new teams are named ‘women’ from the outset and every team in the Premier 15s uses women not ladies. We believe we will also see the name change in many other clubs. We want to make sure we keep pace with the times.
‘Sheffield Ladies’ has a long and impressive history. From its creation in 1996, to entering a league, to helping develop numerous county players (and a few internationals), to regularly finishing at the sharp end of the North 2 table before promotion to Championship 1 and a constantly expanding membership, there is so much to be proud of. The successes, trials, celebrations, tribulations and triumphs this section has encountered in the last 26 seasons define us, not just a name. Every player, volunteer, coach, official, sponsor and spectator over the years is held in the highest regard and we hope you all join us in celebrating a change that reflects that.
So, let’s get behind Sheffield RUFC Women and celebrate many more successes to come!