Rugby Canada says its “Mission: Win Rugby World Cup 2025” fundraising campaign exceeded its goal, bringing in just over $1 million.
The money, which was added to $2.6 million from the governing body, made up the shortfall in Canada head coach Kevin Rouet’s preparation plan. The second-ranked Canadian women made it to the Sept. 27 final, losing 33-13 to top-ranked England at Twickenham’s Allianz Stadium.
Rugby Canada says the campaign to raise $1 million brought in proceeds and pledges totalling $1.06 million, thanks to contributions from more than 1,500 donors, including community rugby clubs, the Canadian Rugby Foundation’s Monty Heald Fund, as well as major gifts from individuals.
“This support made a real difference on and off the field,” Rouet said in a statement. “We set out to not just play in the Rugby World Cup, but to win it and this campaign gave us the tools we needed.”
The money helped pay for two additional pre-tournament camps, the first in Chula Vista, Calif., in May ahead of the Pacific Four Series, and the second in Perth, Ont., in July before a pair of test matches in South Africa.
It also helped with travel costs and accommodation outside of the World Cup, as well as “nutrition resources” and additional medical staffing and strength and conditioning resources at the tournament.
“This campaign has been about belief — in our team, in their journey, and in what they represent for Canada,” Rugby Canada chief executive officer Nathan Bombrys said in a statement. “To see the nation come together and exceed our $1-million goal is both remarkable and humbling.”
Canadian rugby players Tyson Beukeboom and Taylor Perry were treated like rock stars at the Women’s Rugby World Cup in England, where they captured a silver medal. But without full-time contracts or a domestic league back home, they are both unemployed and looking for work.
Rouet says budget concerns remain a fact of life for the Canadian team.
“Every year it’s about trying to find the best with what we have,” he said in an interview.
While he believes the success of his team will “open doors,” he’s not sure what that will entail. And he expects some leaner years, expecting a lower budget in 2026 after the Women’s World Cup, and with 2027 a men’s World Cup year and 2028 the Olympics.
“It’s normal. It’s life,” said the French-born coach. “This is the reality of our federation. But I think it’s still in better shape. Don’t get me wrong. Every year is better than the year before since I’m here. I’m not trying to complain by any means.”
England has beaten Canada 33-13 to win the Women’s Rugby World Cup title in front of a record crowd in Twickenham, London, on Saturday. Despite the loss, Canadian Sophie de Goede was awarded the 2025 Women’s Rugby Player of the Year, making her the second Canadian to win it since Magali Harvey in 2014.
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