The new tournament will bring together the best players from the six countries for a tournament that will be played in Parma, Italy, over three game days from 4-14 July.
Liza Burgess’ Wales U20 team played England in Bristol last weekend in an international fixture that gave the players a fist taste of what they can expect in Italy. England won 45-5
Designed to offer a new opportunity for international rugby experience, the Women’s Summer Series will offer players a chance to graduate through the rugby development pathway from U18 level.
The Six Nations Women’s U18 Festival took place in Colwyn Bay in April, with the men’s event being staged in Italy. The new Women’s Summer Series opens another route to international rugby for those players who missed out on the U18 Festival due to age restriction.
The new competition will also allow coaches and match officials from each nation to gain vital experience and develop alongside the players.
The three match days will be on 4, 9 and 14 July. Each team will be allowed to select up to three U23 players per match day squad.
“The development pathway is an essential part of the strategy and commitment of Six Nations Rugby, and the six unions and federations, to proactively support the growth in the women’s game,” said Julie Paterson, chief of rugby at Six Nations Rugby.
“The ability for the players, coaches, and match officials to gain rugby experience and exposure in a structured international pathway are vital elements of the mission to motivate the long term, sustainable development of the women’s game. Introducing the Women’s Summer Series delivers on this mission and commitment.
“Over the last three years, the Women’s U18 Festivals have provided a competitive and successful development platform. We’re now able to offer the next phase for players, coaches, and match officials.
“The performances of England and France in the senior Women’s Six Nations have highlighted the benefit of a successful development infrastructure, and thriving domestic club game, in helping to accelerate the development of players.
“With energy and enthusiasm, coupled with patience and support, we hope the combination of the U18 Festivals and now the Women’s Summer Series, will feed the pathway through to the elite women’s game.”
The Six Nations Women’s Summer Series will be available to fans all over the world, via exclusive coverage on the Six Nations Rugby YouTube channels, with supporting coverage across dedicated U20 Six Nations social media channels.
