Lions roar to Plate glory in stunning debut season
West Offaly Lions RFC's senior women's team wrote their name into the club's history books on Saturday, claiming the Leinster Rugby Division 5/6 Plate title with a commanding 56-12 victory over Balbriggan RFC at Portlaoise RFC.
It was a performance that reflected everything this team has built over the course of their debut season — energy, belief, and a relentless desire to improve.
The Lions were dominant throughout, running in try after try to seal a convincing win and spark jubilant scenes at the final whistle. The road to the final was no easy feat. Having finished 5th in Division 5— picking up valuable experience against the likes of New Ross, Navan, Tallaght RFC, Lansdowne FC, Swords, and Wanderers FC — the Lions arrived at the knockout stages battle-hardened and ready.
A powerful 61-28 semi-final victory over Tallaght confirmed they meant business, and Saturday's final left no doubt. What makes this triumph all the more extraordinary is where it began. In July 2025, just six players showed up to the Lions' very first pre-season session. Some had never played rugby before. There were no grand expectations — just a willingness to learn and a love for the game. Under coaches Jackie Daly, Tasha Connaughton, John Mullen, and Hazel Kilduff, and guidance along the way by experienced Aoibhe Kelly and Laura Phelan (Tullamore RFC), the squad grew steadily into the side that lifted the trophy on Saturday.
Off the pitch, the Lions were well looked after by a community that got behind them from the start. Thomas Butler Carpentry and Construction proudly sponsored the team's hoodies, Stephen Spollen Nutrition and Fitness kept the squad in peak condition with strength and conditioning sessions throughout the season and was a familiar face on match days, always ensuring player welfare came first. Win or lose, Glessons Bar in Ferbane made sure the girls never went hungry — rolling out a post-match spread that kept spirits and energy levels high throughout the season.
West Offaly Lions RFC is now welcoming new players ahead of next season. Women and girls of all ages and experience levels — including complete beginners — are encouraged to get involved. Contact West Offaly Lions RFC via their social media channels or through the club to find out more.