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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.

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College Women

Sacred Heart Survives Shark Attack 7s

Sacred Heart put together all the pieces of the puzzle to win the Shawk Attack 7s Sunday in Long Island.

Hosted by LIU, the Shark Attack 7s was the opening salvo in what is expected to be an annual showcase for NIRA rugby 7s. 

msm women rugby 2022
College Women

Mount St. Mary's Women Seeks Head Coach

Mount St. Mary's is seeking a new Head Coach for its women's NCAA Varsity rugby program.

With Farrah Douglas moving on, MSM is seeking a replacement for this full-time position.

The successful candidate will need to be knowledgeable of NCAA, MAAC, NIRA, USARugby, and University rules and regulations, including recruiting compliance.

navy women 2022
College Women

Navy Officially Joins NIRA

ANNAPOLIS, Md.—The US Naval Academy women's team has officially joined the National Intercollegiate Rugby Association (NIRA) competition for NCAA Varsity programs.

Navy competed as an independent team in CRAA D1 during its first varsity season and now will be joining NIRA's D1 for the fall of 2024 2023.

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College Women

Army West Point Seeks New Assistant Coach

Army West Point's women's rugby program is looking for an assistant coach.

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College Women

Back from Injury Lilly Durbin Makes Every Minute Count

After a meteoric rise which saw her capped by the Eagles 7s team before she'd graduated high school, Lilly Durbin's rugby life was ripped away from her.

A star as a freshman in high school ...

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