Canada's Sensational Victory at 2021 Rugby World Cup

Canada's Women's Rugby Team, governed by Rugby Canada, is the national team representing Canada in women's rugby union, with a rich history and significant achievements in the sport. Established formally within Rugby Canada, the team has been a consistent presence at all seven Women's Rugby World Cup tournaments since the competition's inception, highlighting Canada's strong commitment to women's rugby development[3][7]. The team's origins trace back to the late 1980s, with pioneers like Ms. White, the first captain, who led the squad to early successes such as winning the Plate competition at the inaugural 1991 Women's Rugby World Cup and captaining the 1994 team during a period of rapid growth in women's rugby globally[1]. Despite limited resources compared to other nations, Canada's women's team maintained competitive standards, finishing sixth in the 1994 World Cup. Key achievements include a historic silver medal at the 2014 Women's Rugby World Cup, where Canada reached the final but were narrowly defeated by England in a high-profile match that captured international attention[2][3]. More recently, the team has demonstrated continued excellence, climbing to second in the World Women's Rugby rankings by May 2024 after a commanding victory over France in the WXV World Series, underscoring their status as a top-tier global competitor[4]. They also secured a bronze medal in Rugby Sevens at the 2016 Rio Olympics, reflecting versatility across rugby formats[3][6]. Currently, the team is positioned as a strong contender aiming for its first-ever Rugby World Cup title, with Rugby Canada actively rallying national support around this mission[5]. The squad consists of skilled athletes such as Olivia Apps, Elissa Alarie, and Alysha Corrigan, who compete at the highest levels internationally[6]. Notable aspects of the team include its resilience amid resource challenges, strategic growth in both traditional fifteen-a-side rugby and the faster-paced Rugby Sevens, and a growing fanbas

New Zealand's women's rugby team, known as the Black Ferns in the union version and the Black Ferns Sevens for the sevens format, is a leading force in international women's rugby. The organization encompasses both the full-contact and sevens versions of the sport. **History and Organization** The Black Ferns, New Zealand's national women's rugby union team, have a rich history dating back to the early days of women's rugby in New Zealand. They first competed in the inaugural Women's Rugby World Cup in 1991 and have since become one of the most successful teams globally[6][7]. The Black Ferns Sevens, on the other hand, represent New Zealand in the World Rugby Sevens Series and other international competitions[1]. **Key Achievements** - **Black Ferns**: They have won six Women's Rugby World Cup titles, including a dramatic victory over England in 2022[4][5]. The team is renowned for its dominance and skill, holding the highest winning percentage of any international rugby team[6]. - **Black Ferns Sevens**: They have achieved significant success, winning two Olympic gold medals, two World Cup titles, and eight Women's Rugby Sevens Series championships[1]. **Current Status and Notable Aspects** The Black Ferns are currently at the forefront of women's rugby, with a strong focus on professional development and player support. In 2018, they became the first women's rugby team to secure professional contracts for their players[4]. The team's success has been instrumental in promoting women's rugby in New Zealand, contributing to a growing participation base[8]. The Black Ferns' achievements have also been recognized internationally, including being named the World Rugby Team of the Year in 2017[5]. Notably, the Black Ferns' success is deeply intertwined with New Zealand's cultural identity, symbolized by the iconic black jersey and silver fern emblem[6]. Their achievements have inspired