The mission of the Wisconsin Women’s Rugby Leadership Endowment (WWRLE) is to promote the participation of women and girls in all levels of rugby, and encourage women’s rugby players to gain leadership skills that will serve themselves and their community.

Please note that while WWRLE is geared towards ruggers who are women, grant recipients may identify as non-binary or trans.

Examples include: college scholarships for undergrad or graduate students; elite player or coach camps; certification for coaches; and training for referees. The fund will not be used to cover the day-to-day costs of playing or socializing.

To support future growth and continuing success – both on and off the pitch – WWRLE was launched in 2015 thanks to a generous seed donation from Coach Bob “Wee Bob” Jafferis. Coach Wee Bob worked with WWRFC for many years, including leading WWRFC to the USA Rugby Women’s D2 National Championships in 2015 and 2016.

For many years, WWRLE was managed by WWRFC alumni who continue to be passionate about the growth of the game and development of game participants. The scope of giving has expanded across the entire state, and the endowment board has sought to reflect that by inviting participants from across Wisconsin to step into leadership positions. In 2020 the WWRLE became a member of the Ethos of Rugby Foundation, whose mission is to promote the sport of rugby and its ethos by strengthening education, leadership development, and health & wellness.

WWRFC remains dedicated to a fruitful partnership with the WWRLE! In addition to contributing to the Endowment’s legacy, many active players and alumni of WWRFC have directly benefited from the WWRLE.

In 2016, WWRFC committed to donating 5% of all proceeds raised by every fundraising event held by the team; this was increased to 10% of all proceeds in 2023. This partnership is a demonstration of commitment to enrich the lives of ruggers across the state.