Chapter 102: Women’s Professional Rugby League

Soon, in the manager’s office, Kane kept glancing at Julie, doubting his ears. Lynch was discussing something quite different from the original plan.

“Women’s rugby…” Lynch painted a grand picture. “Girls wearing cool gear and heavy protective pads, running and colliding on a lush green field.”

“Their skin glistening with sweat, becoming the center of attention. People’s eyes following their every move, cheering for their victories!”

“Imagine what that scene would look like.”

Inspired by Lynch’s vivid description, Fox, Fox Jr., and Kane let their imaginations run wild. The vision was epic—stirring, passionate, thrilling.

Fox was the first to snap back, likely due to his age. Though well-maintained and looking only in his forties, he knew his limits physically—unlike Kane, who still kept fit, or Fox Jr., who was naturally advantaged by youth.

Fox Jr. soon regained composure, cheeks slightly flushed, then Kane followed.

Fox nodded. “I think I understand your point, but we all know a match needs two sides. Who would we play against?”

This was a good question. Watching women run and collide is one thing, but the core of women’s rugby, beyond their spirit, is the competition itself.

The purpose of sports is to win. Women are part of the spectacle but cannot be the whole story; it won’t last if it is.

“Local businesses will form teams. Once they see the profits, they’ll join voluntarily. Note, women’s rugby isn’t covered by the federal sports law.”

“Besides that, raising company profiles, endorsements, and the players’ own value will generate profits. People will notice these benefits!”

Lynch hit the key point for women’s rugby success: as an event outside the federal sports law, its broadcast rights don’t belong to the league association. Stirring up the matches alone can generate huge revenue from broadcasting fees.

Also, maintaining women’s teams costs far less than men’s. Women’s rugby is a blank slate with no star players; just pay them reasonably, and they’ll sign.

Once stars emerge, organizers will have earned enough and can profit further through player transfers.

New talent will continuously enter the market, fueling a cycle of investment and return—the earlier in, the more to gain.

Fox continued along Lynch’s line of thought, seeing more possibilities and agreeing it was worth trying. Initial investment is small, and failure wouldn’t be devastating.

“We can give it a try,” Fox finally said.

Lynch nodded with satisfaction. “You won’t regret it.”

At first, women’s rugby would launch within the state and nearby ones. Businesses must see the profits before fully engaging.

Lynch then looked at Kane, who snapped out of his thoughts and stood awkwardly.

“Kane, what do you think of my plan?”

Kane’s expression was conflicted. He disliked Lynch’s style and attitude, seeing the club as a mere profit tool—typical of capitalists.

But this was the first real chance in three years to revive the club. He couldn’t let it slip away.

He cautiously gave his opinion, first agreeing, “Your idea is excellent, Lynch. I never considered this before. It will surely draw attention.”

Just watching cool girls run and collide would attract paying audiences, win or lose.

Julie glanced disapprovingly at Kane’s flattery but said nothing.

Ignoring her, Kane continued, “But shouldn’t our men’s rugby program keep pace? With your support, we could quickly revive, and in three years—no, five—we could win the state league.”

The Baylor Federation rugby league has three levels and five divisions, mixing regional and national competitions. The season runs February to November.

The autumn championship is a major event for rugby fans, with eighteen teams—state champions plus an all-star team—battling fiercely, generating over $15 million annually in broadcast fees.

In Kane’s eyes, Sabin City is strong in rugby. The previously supportive company brought many honors, and schools invest more in rugby, even private schools offering admission to talented players.

Gathering the best players could quickly form a team ready to compete next season—if Lynch agrees to invest.

Lynch nodded but didn’t answer immediately. He turned to Julie.

“Julie, do you have any additions to my plan or Kane’s?”

Though seemingly minor, the assistant is vital—handling daily training, games, and players’ lives. The manager, assistant, and coach form the club’s iron triangle.

Julie paused. She once had some goodwill toward Lynch—being handsome tends to impress—but now she felt disgusted. After two deep breaths, she voiced opposition.

“Lynch, is women’s rugby meant just to please men?” Her face showed hatred. “It’s an insult to women!”

Lynch raised an eyebrow. “You’re wrong, Julie. I deeply respect women and know they’ve fought for equal social status and rights.”

“This isn’t an insult. Think—how many mainstream federal sports have women players or dedicated leagues for them?”

Before she could answer, Lynch shook his head. “None.”

“What I want to do is give women the highest respect, let them have their own rugby. I’m shocked you see it this way. Frankly, I’m disappointed.”

Julie tried to argue, sensing he was twisting words, but before she could, Lynch shrugged.

“You’re fired. Collect two months’ pay from finance, then find a job where no one insults you. And remember to close the door behind you.”