Jez Parsons looking to continue team's growth after appointment as Navy women's head coach

The Royal Navy women's rugby union team have a new head coach as Jez Parsons has been appointed in the role ahead of the new season.

Parsons hopes to continue the Navy's growth in the women's game and build on the platform set by previous regimes.

That includes a number of Navy players who starred for the UK Armed Forces at the 2025 International Defence Rugby Competition such as Jasmine Abel, Rose Dixon, Rowann Sinclair and Ellie Brightwell.

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"The foundations for this team have been laid impeccably over the past few years by the players, support staff, and previous management," he told the Royal Navy Rugby Union website.

"Their dedication has built a platform of which the entire Naval Service can be proud. Thank you for your legacy; it is one I intend to respect and build upon.

"It was fantastic to see so many of our players representing the UKAF team this year. That is a clear marker of our potential.

"It will be a key priority of this coaching team to develop that raw talent, to ensure even more of our players are ready to seize that opportunity and perform at that higher level." 

Parsons has outlined three key aims for his time in charge including turning the Navy into a team that can compete regularly against the Army and RAF.

"We will build a side that can compete with the RAF and the Army on a much more consistent and competitive level," he said.

"We will prepare to meet those historic rivals not just with passion, but with a structured, intelligent, and relentless game plan." 

He also intends to implement "a stern, professional standard in every aspect" and continue the development of the team's elite athletes.