Why Red Roses X Barbie is so important to the women’s game

The England women’s team have partnered up with Barbie to create a limited edition collection ahead of the women’s RWC which started this week. The collection features shirt designs and a pink rugby ball, but unfortunately no dolls are included in the collaboration. 

This is the first time Barbie have collaborated with a sports team in the U.K. This is a part of Barbies dream gap project, funding projects to inspire girls and young women. Barbie are donating £20,000 to help fund the RFU including their girls activity days which helps introduce girls 6-12 to rugby.

 It comes as Barbie researched into women’s sports finding that a third of girls disengage in sports by the age of 14 due to body confidence issues, and a lack of visible role models in their sport. Only 28% of girls believe sports are made for both men and women. With 38% of girls thinking that rugby is a sport more suited to boys. 

With the women’s rugby World Cup starting on Friday, I hope this boosts the amount of young women and girls having an interest in rugby, wether that be watching or being inspired to play in their own local team. 

I always enjoyed rugby from a young age, and tried to play through high school but to no avail. I enjoy watching games through all leagues, but can’t help but notice the lack of advertising of women’s leagues. I’ve seen my fair share of men’s games at an international and premiership level but can’t say the same for women’s. The women’s game has gained more traction in the last few years but still isn’t enough for the sacrifice and hard work all these women put in to inspire the next generation of players. 

Its time for the girls and women to get the love and support they give for this game.