Ereklasse Dames 2025/26: Who Will Rise to the Challenge?

With the Women’s Rugby World Cup in England captivating fans around the globe, there’s little doubt Ereklasse Dames coaches and players will be taking notes studying game shape, defensive systems, and attacking patterns ready to apply fresh ideas to the Dutch stage this season.

And what a season it promises to be. The teams confirmed for the 2025/26 campaign are:

AAC, RUS, Waterland, Breda, Delft, Castricum, DIOK, and URC.

Reigning champions AAC Amsterdam enter the season with a target on their backs. Their title defence won’t be easy, with several challengers circling. Last season’s battle at the top was razor-thin only a handful of points separated AAC, Waterland, and RUS on the final table. Expect those rivalries to ignite again, especially given the wealth of international experience running through their squads.

With so many Ereklasse clubs boasting players who regularly pull on the Dutch national jersey, the standard of competition is only climbing. The question is: who can sustain that level over the course of a long, gruelling season?

Injuries, as always, will be a deciding factor. Depth and preparation during the off-season could prove the difference between silverware and heartbreak. And while AAC carry the confidence of champions, sides like Waterland and RUS will feel their moment is coming. Don’t discount the hunger of Breda, Delft, Castricum, DIOK, or URC either all clubs capable of shaking up the pecking order on their day.

So, as fixtures loom, the anticipation builds. Who will have the power, precision, and resilience to go all the way? The stage is set, and the Ereklasse Dames season is ready to deliver another year of drama.