Richmond Women’s 1st XV player Zainab Alema made history as the first Black, Muslim woman to play in the Premiership. Now, she’s pioneering even further, by building a powerful community for Muslim women in rugby.

Last week, Zainab hosted the first ever in-person meet-up for Muslimah Rugby, a new group she has launched to represent, connect, and empower Muslim women involved in the game. The intimate gathering took place at Richmond Athletic Ground, a place Zainab calls home and one steeped in women’s rugby heritage. The ground hosted the first ever women’s international match in the UK in 1986, and just four years later, became the birthplace of the Women’s Rugby World Cup, founded in Richmond’s Murray Judd Room.

What began just a month ago as a group chat and Instagram page has already grown into something much bigger, with over 25 members worldwide, including players, referees, coaches, and Directors of Rugby, all united by a shared passion for the sport and the challenges they face as Muslim women navigating it.

For many, the experience of being the only Muslim woman in their club, or even their league, can be isolating. Muslimah Rugby was born from a desire to change that, creating a safe and supportive space for women to connect, share ideas, uplift one another, and celebrate rugby on their own terms.

“I was tired of being the only Muslim girl at my club,” Zainab says.
“I knew there had to be others out there feeling the same way. This group is about community within the rugby community, it’s about not feeling alone. Even if you’re the only one in your club, there are many across the country and the world who understand you, who have your back, and who are walking a similar path.”

The event brought together 17 members of the group, some meeting in person for the first time. The afternoon included introductions, and honest reflections, whilst also enjoying soft drinks, games, and creating handmade signs created for the upcoming Richmond Women’s Championship Final this Sunday.

The group also heard from Deborah Griffin OBE, Richmond Club Secretary and soon-to-be the first female President of the RFU. Deborah shared her own story of breaking ground in the sport. Attendees also included Hatice, the first female board member of Turkey Rugby, who travelled from abroad to be part of the event.

Richmond Rugby was proud to host this important occasion and to support Zainab’s mission to grow a game that is more inclusive, more representative, and more welcoming for all.

This is just the beginning for Muslimah Rugby. Zainab is already planning future meet-ups, Red Roses trips, and a group rugby tour, something she has yet to experience herself and hopes to enjoy for the first time alongside those in this group.

For Muslim women involved in rugby at any level, whether as players, coaches, volunteers, or fans, Muslimah Rugby is open, growing, and ready to welcome you.

To find out more or get involved, contact Zainab via Instagram at @muslimahrugby