Women’s Elite Rugby (WER) has officially announced the names, logos, and branding of its inaugural teams, setting the stage for a groundbreaking 2025 season. We dive into the league’s structure, what makes WER unique, and a closer look at the six teams that will compete in the first U.S. professional women’s rugby league.
WER: A Single-Entity League for Sustainable Growth
Unlike traditional franchise models, WER operates as a single-entity league. This structure means the league owns all teams, ensuring centralized support, competitive balance, and long-term stability. This model allows WER to focus on growing the sport, fostering player development, and creating a strong, unified league culture as it expands.
The 2025 season will feature a home and away format, with more details about the championship structure to be announced soon. Will we see a traditional semifinal showdown like past Women’s Premier League (WPL) seasons, or a direct #1 vs. #2 final? Stay tuned.
Meet the Teams
Bay Breakers
Rooted in the power and unpredictability of the ocean, the Bay Breakers embody the relentless spirit of the Bay Area. Their crest features a wave split by a trident, symbolizing their determination to break tackles, records, and barriers in women’s rugby. The California sun in the background glows in Sunset Purple, complemented by Pacific and Deep Sea Blue — colors as bold and dynamic as the team itself.
Boston Banshees
With a name steeped in Irish and Celtic folklore, the Boston Banshees represent the city’s rebellious spirit. Their crest features a wailing banshee, a symbol of unstoppable force and resilience, echoing the team’s fierce presence on the pitch. Dressed in Moonlight White, Ghostly Gray, Blood-Moon Red, and Midnight, the Banshees are here to make sure their opponents hear them loud and clear.
Chicago Tempest
Inspired by Chicago’s extreme weather and indomitable spirit, the Chicago Tempest bring the storm. Their crest showcases a swirling tempest above the iconic Willis Tower (or, as locals still call it, the Sears Tower), reflecting the city’s unyielding energy. Their colors, Lightning Yellow and Tempest Gray, capture the intensity of a Midwestern storm, both on and off the field.
Denver Onyx
Named after Colorado’s striking black onyx and rose onyx gems, the Denver Onyx are a team built on strength, resilience, and grit. Their crest, featuring sharp gemstone designs in contrasting black and vibrant pink, mirrors the toughness and boldness of their athletes. Just like onyx, this team only grows stronger under pressure.
New York Exiles
Drawing from the spirit of Lady Liberty and the poem “The New Colossus,” the New York Exiles embrace the city’s rich history of diversity and determination. Their crest features three hooded figures, nodding to both the immigrant journey through Ellis Island and New York’s superhero culture. Their colors — Night Navy, Liberty Teal, Shadow Teal, and Torch Orange — align with other iconic New York women’s teams, unifying the city’s pro sports landscape.
Twin Cities Gemini
Representing the dual nature of Minneapolis-Saint Paul, the TC Gemini embody balance, transformation, and power. Their intertwined snake emblem reflects the Mississippi River’s winding path and pays homage to Indigenous symbolism in the region, where serpents often signify healing, new life, and fierce energy. The team colors — Deep Venom, Serpent Green, and Ice Blue — evoke the natural beauty of Minnesota, from lush forests to the aurora borealis.
What’s Next for WER?
With the season set to kick off in March 2025, fans can expect an action-packed schedule, fierce rivalries, and the debut of professional women’s rugby at its highest level in the U.S. Broadcast details will be released soon, promising fans across the country easy access to all the hard-hitting action.
Stay connected with YSCRugby for more updates on WER, player spotlights, and behind-the-scenes content as we gear up for an unforgettable season.
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