Sale Sharks Women will start next season in the Allianz Premier15s after the RFU and WP15 confirmed the club had been given a place in English women’s rugby’s elite league.
Sale will join Worcester Warriors Women in taking one of the final two places in the league, having originally been denied a spot in the first tender process.
Following discussions with the RFU, the club was offered a conditional place in the league at start of February.
This prompted the club to launch its Northern Rugby Matters campaign, designed to celebrate and raise awareness of rugby in the region, as well as raise important funds for the women’s team.
And now the place has been confirmed, meaning Women’s Performance Lead Rachel Taylor and her players can turn their attentions to next season and building on their strong performances this season.
Sharks co-owner Michelle Orange said: “A successful women’s team is a big part of the future of this club and our investment and commitment to Sale Sharks Women since its launch in 2020 speaks for itself.
“We’ve got big plans and ambitions for this team. We’ve seen massive improvement this season but a confirmed place in the league for next year is vital for us to be able to plan for next season and beyond.
“As a club, we’ve put in so much work to make sure that women’s rugby in the North has a bright future and having a team playing at the very top level of the game to provide a focal point is crucial.
“We want young girls right across the region to dream of playing for Sale Sharks and to know that they can achieve whatever they want right here.
“This is just the start for us. Everyone at the club remains passionately committed to growing and developing the women’s game in the North and showing that Northern Rugby Matters.”
