Female players who have been through the Burnside High School International Rugby Programme (IRP) are now shining on the world stage.

Four IRP old girls played for Japan in the Women's Rugby World Cup (15-a-side) held in Ireland this year. Wasana Fukushima was injured and returned to Japan early, but Moe Tsukui, Seina Saito (captain) and Mayu Shimizu played to the end of the tournament. Moe Tsukui was selected in the “Best XV” of players who appeared in the World Cup games.

Moe said the following about the IRP: “All of the practice sessions are related to game situations, so players are able to find and fix weaknesses in their game. It’s a marvellous environment with great coaches. I had many rivals, but made some friendships that I’m sure will last a lifetime.”

In addition, Mifuyu Koide played for Japan Women’s Sevens in the Rio Olympics and Wakaba Hara played for Japan Women’s Sevens in Korea this September, scoring four tries in her debut game. Wakaba says, “I wouldn’t be playing for Japan if I hadn't taken part in the Burnside High School International Rugby Programme.”

We look forward to other IRP old girls performing on the global stage in the near future.