Old Alleynians RFC

RFU-approved move sees Championship-level women’s teams join OARFC ahead of 2025/26 season.

The addition of a senior women+ section has long been a strategic objective for Old Alleynians RFC, as we continue to promote diversity and inclusivity across all areas of the Club. With one of the largest girls’ sections in Kent, there has been a growing need to provide a clear pathway for our young players to continue their rugby journey with us into senior rugby.

We are pleased to share that, following discussions and a formal review by the RFU, the RFU has approved the transfer of the 1XV women+ senior team from Streatham-Croydon RFC and the inclusion of another Old Alleynians RFC senior women+ team in NC3 South East (East). This is a significant step forward and a pivotal moment for Old Alleynians RFC. The Club is currently continuing our discussions and planning regarding the implementation of the governance structures, financial and operational requirements necessary to support the introduction of this new section into our club.

With the recent release of provisional league structures from the RFU, Old Alleynians RFC is set to operate women’s teams in Championship South East 2 (Women’s Level 3) and NC3 South East (East) from September 2025.

Helen McIntosh, as Head of Women+ and Girls rugby, will continue to take the lead in this exciting club development.

“We, at Old Alleynians, are all very excited to welcome a new senior women+ section into our Club. It is a milestone we’ve have had in mind for many years.  To be able to further expand our offering for those who want to remain at the Club will surely just add to the success of the Club on and off the pitch and will positively contribute to our objectives as a community rugby club. To be able to develop our women+ section with a committed group of coaching staff and a group of experienced players provides us with a fantastic platform from which we can grow”

From the Club Chairman, Phil Kent:

“We are excited to launch the senior women+ section to the OAs, further widening our offering as a Club and providing a senior pathway for our substantial age-grade girls’ section. In doing so we are mindful of the potential for additional teams to put pressure on our facilities and pitches. As you have hopefully seen in the development update circulated recently, we remain committed to addressing these challenges through initiatives that will have an impact in the short and long-term. The requirements of the senior women+ section now becomes an important consideration as part of those plans. I look forward to introducing the new members to existing members. I ask for your support in making them feel welcome to, and included in, our special Club. If there are any questions or comments please, as always, get in touch”

Millie Ross, the Women+ Team Manager said:

“We are excited to be joining Old Alleynians, a club that shares our values around equality and inclusion, and offers a fantastic environment for our players to thrive. We are incredibly proud of everything we’ve built over the last ten years at Streatham-Croydon RFC - a strong, inclusive culture and a team that supports each other on and off the pitch, and we’re bringing all of that with us. Looking ahead, we have big ambitions for the future of the Women’s+ section, and we’re committed to supporting our players at every level to achieve them.”

Martin Giraud will continue as Head Coach for the Old Alleynians Women+

"I’m very excited to be joining Old Alleynians RFC and help to create a pivotal moment in the club’s journey. The commitment to building an inclusive and ambitious senior women+ section is truly inspiring. To be part of this new chapter, alongside passionate teammates and dedicated volunteers, is an incredible opportunity—and I can’t wait to contribute to the club’s legacy both on and off the pitch."

For more information please contact us at women@oarfc.club.