FINANCIAL STABILITY AND PERFORMANCE OF WOMEN’S’ RUGBY IN SRI LANKA

The Sri Lankan women’s rugby team has not achieved the same level of international success as the Sri Lankan men's rugby team. Therefore, this study aims to investigate the financial stability of female rugby players in Sri Lanka and assess their accomplishments in rugby. Employing a qualitative research design, a thematic analysis is conducted through one-to-one, open-ended telephone interviews. The sample comprised 12 women rugby players who had participated in at least two provincial-level tournaments in Sri Lanka. Among them, four players represented military forces, while the remaining eight played for rugby clubs in Sri Lanka. Five key themes emerged from the data analysis: (1) purchasing ability and the use of nutritional supplements for rugby; (2) access to infrastructure facilities for women’s rugby; (3) quality of coaching and support from team officials for women rugby players; (4) structure of payments for women’s rugby; and (5) acquisition of high-quality rugby gear. All participants confirmed that their current financial situations do not allow them to support their rugby endeavors adequately. The lack of financial support impedes women rugby players’ ability to purchase nutritional supplements, sports equipment and cover domestic travel expenses for accessing better training facilities. However, respondents noted that the support they receive from their rugby coaches motivates them to continue playing despite their financial challenges. In conclusion, ensuring the financial stability of female rugby players would provide them with essential resources, including the ability to purchase nutrition supplements, access better infrastructure facilities, and acquire high-quality rugby gear. This support is crucial for ensuring their performance in rugby.