Ireland’s Aoife Wafer Will Join Harlequins After the Rugby World Cup Finals
Aoife Wafer is making a major move in her rugby career. The Irish back-row star will be joining Harlequins in the Premiership Women’s Rugby league right after the Rugby World Cup Finals. It’s a big step for the 22-year-old, who has already made a name for herself on the international stage. Wafer, from Wexford, was just crowned the 2025 Six Nations Player of the Tournament, and now she’s set to bring her talent to one of England’s most historic clubs.
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She’s not the only Irish face in the English league either—Edel McMahon, Dorothy Wall, Neve Jones, and Clíodhna Moloney have already paved the way there. But for Wafer, there was something special about Harlequins. She said the club’s long history really stood out to her, and after visiting a game and meeting the team, she was sold on their close-knit, family-like atmosphere.
A Rising Star With Big Ambitions
Wafer’s rugby journey has been nothing short of impressive. She exploded onto the international scene last season and was quickly recognized, earning a nomination for Player of the Season and being named in the 2024 World Rugby XVs Team of the Year. One of her standout moments came when she scored twice against world champs New Zealand in the WXV1 last year.
During this year’s Six Nations, she racked up some eye-catching stats: four tries, 70 carries, over 424 metres gained, and 17 defenders beaten second best among all forwards in the tournament. It’s no wonder she wants to test herself in a league filled with the world’s best. “I want to be the best player in the world,” she said, excited to take on that challenge each week.
Focused on Growth and Team Spirit
What’s refreshing about Wafer is her mindset—she’s all about team over self. She’s committed to working hard and bringing her A-game to Harlequins, hoping to contribute to the team’s success. “Hopefully what people have seen on the international stage is what they’ll get from me at Quins,” she added.
Before she joins her new club, Wafer will focus on Ireland’s World Cup preparations, with warm-up games against Scotland and Canada lined up in August. Ireland will then take on Japan, Spain, and New Zealand in Pool C during the tournament. One thing’s for sure—Wafer’s journey is just getting started, and she’s got big things ahead.
