Ivybridge RFC proves how local investment powers women’s rugby World Cup dreamsIvybridge Rugby Club is showing how local investment builds pathways to the world stage, fuelling the women’s game as England prepare for the Rugby World Cup finalView 3 Images Ivybridge RFC women’s team in action (Credit: Steve Coonik)As England prepare to battle Canada in the Women’s Rugby World Cup final at Twickenham on Saturday, one Devon club is showing how local investment fuels international success. ‌Ivybridge Rugby Football Club, based in the South Hams, has undergone a remarkable transformation in recent years. More recently, in 2020, Sport England awarded Ivybridge £4,980 to expand opportunities for women and girls, reflecting a nationwide push to strengthen participation at all levels. Beyond Ivybridge, women’s rugby has been buoyed by nearly £50 million of National Lottery funding since 2009. View 3 Images Ivybridge RFC women’s team in action (Credit: Steve Coonik)Article continues belowThe impact is clear: RFU registration now includes 43,500 women and girls, a rise of 35 per cent in age-grade players since 2022.