The WXV had an excellent season2025/26 season finishing as runners up in National Championship 2 North building upon their success during the previous seasons NC3 North campaign. After gaining promotion to NC 2 North there was a certain amount of trepidation going into this league. However, as with last season the attitude and commitment shown at training was excellent, skills and a style of play continued to develop at a fast pace. The side also made it to round 3 of National Junior Plate competition which was a significant achievement. The leadership of Mel Bramley both on and off the pitch was again outstanding all season. Mel decided to stand down as captain at the end of the season, in her time as captain she led the team with dignity and passion and no doubt continue to be an advocate of women’s rugby within the club.
Last years captain Mel Bramley on the attack
Looking back to September 2025 team manager Liz Jarratt commented that “As the season began, the whole country was cheering on England’s Red Roses to their World Cup victory. Macclesfield Women played a part in this too, with several of us acting as flag bearers at matches and most of the team at Twickenham on Final Day for a truly unforgettable day. Just one week later we were delighted to have been selected as England RFU’s winners of ‘RugbyFest’, where we hosted not just the World Cup trophy, but two of the winning England team. The Club House was packed with girls and women from across the region, taking part in training games, crafts and photo opportunities – a very special day for MRUFC”
Reflecting on last season Mel commented “England winning the Rugby World Cup got the season off to a flying start and, as a club, there is no doubt we have benefitted from the interest the event generated. The Girls’ section is growing and is being well-supported by women’s players. The women’s team had a successful season in NC2, thanks to some strong commitment from long standing players and excellent additional recruitment to the squad. A second-placed finish was more than we expected but was reward for the efforts made by all involved. It is an exciting time for the team, and we look forward to next season and challenging for the NC2 title.”
McMaster on a break
Four players made the landmark of representing the WXV 50 times last season. Whilst seven players were selected to train with the Cheshire Senior women’s XV squad. Tanni Whalley represented Jamaica at Rugby League and Liz Jarratt and Annie James were nominated for Cheshire Volunteer of the year. Liz added that “Our first season in NC2 has seen phenomenal improvement across the whole squad. We’ve gained new players and played with greater depth and strength than ever. As team manager, I’m so proud of what we’ve achieved over the last few years – numbers at training are consistently high and team spirit is fantastic. Our first away fixture on the Isle of Man against Vagabonds was a season highlight, and I can’t wait for next season’s rematch!”
Moving onto the 2026/ 27 Season has brought some exciting changes as the club seeks to develop women’s and girls’ rugby in the area. Paul Jakubowski moves from lead coach into the newly created role of Director of Women’s and Girls rugby. Russ Tomlinson and Jim Curtis move across from coaching the club’s successful 2nd XV, as Lead Coach and coach respectively and will be joined by experienced women’s player Mandy Rosser as player coach. Russ commented “I’m delighted to be taking on the role of Women’s Lead Coach and am looking forward to working with both the coaching team and players as we continue to develop women’s rugby at the club. We have a talented squad with a great attitude and a strong desire to learn and improve. There is plenty of potential within the group, and I’m excited to help the players continue their development throughout the season. I can’t wait to get started and rip into the new campaign, doing everything I can to help the team achieve success both on and off the field.” The new coaching teams first task was to appoint the 2026/27 captain Bex Ward, who will be supported be vice captains Julia Ashford and Kacie Lawton.
Bex Ward the WXV 2026-2027 Captain
Training nights are 6.45pm – 8.30 pm on Tuesday and Thursday nights contact the WXV at WomensXV@maccrugby.co.uk
