Buccaneers aim to create a new era for women’s rugby

There’s a new energy sweeping through Buccaneers RFC, with the club proudly launching the 2025–2026 season for the senior women’s rugby team last Friday evening.

Among those present at the launch in The Bounty were Joe Cleary (Managing Partner of sponsors Russell Brennan Keane), Amy O’Connor (women’s senior team manager), Kieron Sloyan (women’s head coach), Tina Kiernan (women’s assistant coach), Trevor Thompson (Buccaneers Junior Vice-President) and Fidelma Reid (Pieta).

Kieron Sloyan takes up the newly created role of women’s head coach at Buccaneers. He is a former player with the club from underage to senior level, achieving numerous honours, including an All-Ireland victory with Athlone U-18s in 2001.

Sloyan is an IRFU Stage 4 accredited coach, with over 16 years of experience as a Club Community Rugby Officer (CCRO) with both Connacht and Leinster Rugby. He currently works at Athlone Community College, where he established the girls’ rugby programme and has coached both the girls’ and boys’ teams to various school titles.

Coaching highlights for Kieron include leading Longford Men's 2nd XV to their first provincial success in 50 years, as well as guiding both the Mullingar and Tullamore women’s teams to divisional titles and domestic trophies in recent years.

Kieron’s assistant coach is Tina Kiernan and Amy O’Connor will manage the squad. Both have played with distinction for Buccs and are deeply committed and invested in ensuring that the squad will be well organised and supported.

With a legacy rooted in passion, community and determination, this marks a powerful new chapter for female rugby in the Midlands — and Buccs are ready to lead the charge.

With seven all-female teams and over 150 girls and women now playing under the Buccaneers banner, the club is setting a new standard for inclusion, development and ambition in Connacht rugby. The revival of the senior women’s side in 2024 was not just about fielding a team; it was about honouring the years of grassroots dedication and ensuring every girl who picks up a rugby ball with Buccs has somewhere to go, grow and thrive.

The return of the senior team signals that commitment in action. Buccaneers RFC is creating a complete pathway for female players, from mini rugby to senior competition — a vision perfectly aligned with the IRFU’s national strategy for women’s rugby.

The club is proud to be sponsored by Russell Brennan Keane, a name synonymous with integrity, ambition and community investment. Their backing has been instrumental in allowing the senior women’s team to focus on what matters — building a strong, dynamic squad and creating an environment where players can push their limits and thrive.

This season, Buccaneers senior women’s rugby team is also proud to stand alongside South Westmeath Hospice and Pieta — two vital organisations that provide life-changing and life-saving services in local communities.

“Partnering with these charities brings extra meaning to our efforts,” said Buccaneers RFC.

“Rugby is about more than sport; it’s about connection, resilience and support. These values are shared by both Pieta, which supports those struggling with mental health, and South Westmeath Hospice, which provides care and dignity to those facing serious illness. We are honoured to wear their logos with pride this season.”

Pre-season training

The countdown is on! Pre-season training begins on Wednesday, July 23 at 7.30pm and the squad is already buzzing with anticipation. With a strong mix of returning players, emerging talent, and experienced new additions, Buccaneers senior women are poised for a standout season.

The club is calling on all past players, new recruits, and people with rugby experience to join - whether it’s on the pitch, on the sidelines, or in the backroom team. “There’s a place for everyone in this journey, and we’re building something lasting,” said the club. Buccaneers RFC insists that it's not just building a senior women’s team, it’s also “shaping the future of women’s rugby in our region”.

“This season promises passion, power and purpose — and we want you to be a part of it. Come for the rugby. Stay for the community,” said the club.

*See this week's Westmeath Independent for more photos.