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.
Harvard Secures NIRA #1, Ivy Title in Dramatic Win Over Dartmouth
Harvard scored at the end of the game to win a key NIRA game on the road at Dartmouth, securing themselves as the #1 seed going into the playoffs.
This was a bit of a slog of a game in cold, wet conditions. While both teams wanted to play some wide open rugby, it wasn't easy to accomplish and as the game progressed it became more of a forwards' game.
Quinnipiac, Sacred Heart Win Key Close NIRA Games
Quinnipiac defeated Army 22-17 to tighten its grip on a semifinal place in the NIRA Women's NCAA DI competition.
Chasing Semis in NIRA DI and the Power Ratings
The Power Ratings in NIRA have people asking all sorts of questions, mostly centered around "what does this game mean now?"
So, let's try to answer that.
Current NIRA DI Power Ratings:
In Clash of Champions Lindenwood Women Beat Dartmouth
The battle of the two major national champions ended up in Lindenwood's favor Saturday but it was certainly a close-run thing.
Defending NIRA and D1 Elite Champions Face Off
Let's have an argument.
The NIRA champion is stronger than the D1 Elite champion.
No, wait, that can't be. The D1 Elite top dog has way more bite.
