In the world of rugby, a new chapter is unfolding for Brazil's women's national team, the Yaras. With a fresh start and a new head coach, Guilherme Coghetto, the team is setting its sights on a significant goal: qualifying for the Women's Rugby World Cup 2029. This ambitious journey begins with the WXV Global Series Challenger, an opportunity for the Yaras to showcase their growth and potential.
Coghetto, a former assistant coach with the Cobras franchise and a Brazil international himself, understands the challenges ahead. He emphasizes the need for the team to become more competitive, focusing on physical, technical, and psychological aspects. This is a crucial step towards achieving their ultimate goal.
"The 2025 World Cup was a remarkable moment, but we must look ahead and continue evolving. To win a game at the World Cup, we must raise our game across the board." - Guilherme Coghetto
One of the key strategies Coghetto has implemented is the establishment of a high-performance program. This program aims to meet the demands of the upcoming WXV series and the qualification process for the World Cup. It's an ambitious plan, and Coghetto believes in the potential of Brazilian rugby and the strength of the youth pathway.
"Brazilian rugby is brimming with talent and untapped potential. The 'Nina' project has been instrumental in developing a strong pipeline of players, and we're already seeing the fruits of that labor with several former 'Nina' prospects making their debut for the national team." - Guilherme Coghetto
However, Coghetto acknowledges that the domestic game must improve to fully prepare these talented players for Test-match level. The clubs are making significant efforts to increase the number of games and provide a more competitive environment, a necessary step towards achieving their goals.
The next four years are divided into two strategic phases. The first phase focuses on qualifying for the 2029 World Cup, with the most experienced players leading the charge. The second phase will see the integration of newcomers, ensuring a smooth transition and a strong foundation for the future.
Coghetto's vision for the Yaras is deeply rooted in Brazilian culture. He wants the team to embody the creativity, dynamism, resilience, and intensity of the Brazilian people on the rugby field. It's a unique approach, aiming to combine instinctive play with strong, durable structures.
"We want to 'jogar bonito,' to play with flair and excitement, but also maintain a solid foundation. It's a delicate balance, but one that we believe will set us apart." - Guilherme Coghetto
As the team embarks on this journey, Coghetto's primary goal is to help the players reach their full potential. He sees his role as a way to give back to the sport that has given him so much, including his wife and daughter.
"Rugby is my life, and I want to repay that gift by supporting the Yaras. These players are warriors, and their stories inspire me. They push themselves beyond limits, and I'm honored to be a part of their journey." - Guilherme Coghetto
The upcoming WXV Global Series Challenger is a crucial step for the Yaras. Coghetto believes that success should be measured by the progress made in various areas, such as scrum, lineout, and ruck exit. It's an opportunity for the team to gain exposure and understand their current standing, setting them up for the ultimate challenge of World Cup qualification.
As the Yaras prepare for their WXV debut, Coghetto is confident and ready for the road ahead. The team embodies the spirit of the Brazilian woman, a warrior with an unwavering fighting spirit. With their dedication and passion, the Yaras are poised to make a mark on the rugby world, and Coghetto is determined to guide them every step of the way.
