The National Intercollegiate Rugby Association (NIRA) governs women’s varsity collegiate rugby in the United States under the NCAA emerging sport framework. NIRA organizes competition across Division I, a combined Division II/III, and a Developmental Division that supports new or growing varsity programs. Division I features established powerhouses such as Dartmouth, Harvard, and Army, while the combined DII/III tier brings together competitive mid-sized and small colleges for meaningful postseason play. The Developmental Division provides a pathway for schools transitioning to varsity status, helping expand and strengthen women’s collegiate rugby nationwide.
Major Matchups in NIRA DI
It's a big weekend in NIRA as we look at the ramifications in the Power Rankings and who might tighten their grip on a postseason spot.
We talk a bit about this in our article about the DI Power Rankings.
NIRA DI Power Rankings Released
The National Intercollegiate Rugby Association Power Rankings are out.
The algorithm waits until Week 3 to get fired up because it needs data. So now that we have that data, the first of weekly Power Rankings have been released.
Harvard, Army, Lindenwood Flex Muscles in NIRA
Harvard remains unbeaten in NIRA DI after an impressive showing over Brown.
After falling behind 3-0 the Crimson exploded for 33 straight points going into halftime, and cruised to a 47-8 win.
Tries from Courtney Taylor and freshman Madelyn Hubbell (her first ever for Harvard), were both converted by Ava Frerence.
NIRA DI Week 3: Follow-Up Time
Navy at Lindenwood highlights this weekend in NIRA DI.
However, Army vs Queens (at the US Naval Academy) is also a key game for both.
Unfortunately, Dartmouth at Princeton has been called off.
NIRA DI Latest: Who Put Their Hand Up?
The surprises keep coming in NIRA DI as a couple of teams made statements this weekend.
Lions Caught Crimson-Handed
Lindenwood made the trip to Massachusetts and were defeated by two-time defending champs Harvard 26-17.
