After six years of remarkable growth, the Colchester Iceni Women’s Rugby Team have secured promotion to National Challenge 1 for the 2025/26 season — a milestone moment in the club’s inspiring journey from grassroots rugby to national competition.

Founded in 2019, the Iceni began their playing days in the RFU Inner Warrior Series, a development initiative aimed at increasing women’s participation in rugby. From those early matches, the team carved out a clear identity rooted in resilience, community, and fierce ambition.

2020 was a year where rugby across the country came to a halt due to the Covid pandemic. Despite this setback, In 2021, the Iceni made the move into National Challenge 2 Midlands East, where they have spent the past three seasons “building the tribe” — a rallying cry that has come to define their culture both on and off the field.

While the 2024/25 season ended in triumph, it was not without its challenges. A string of cancelled fixtures by opposition teams disrupted their league momentum, limiting consistent game time. Rather than let that stall their progress, the Iceni refocused their efforts in the Papa Johns Community Cup, where they made an impressive run to the semi-finals, taking on — and defeating — several experienced and well-drilled teams along the way.

“The Cup run was huge for us,” said Zoe Goate, Women and Girls Chair at Colchester RFC. “We finally had the chance to play regularly against competitive teams, and it showed what we’re capable of when challenged. It brought the squad even closer together.”

As the team now prepares for their debut season in National Challenge 1, plans are already in motion to expand the team with a development side being set up this year to provide a space to develop new talent, and ensure the infrastructure is in place to support this exciting new chapter.

The promotion marks not just sporting success, but a broader win for the women’s and girls’ game in Colchester — a testament to what can be achieved when grassroots energy meets long-term vision.

If you are looking to join the tribe drop them a message on their social media channels @crfc_iceni or via email iceni@colchesterrugby.co.uk.