Boston Banshees Announces Their Foundational Five Players Ahead of the League’s Inaugural Season

Hallie Martin • February 5, 2025

WRITTEN BY Allison Smith, WER

UNITED STATES— Women’s Elite Rugby (WER), which will be the first professional women’s rugby league in the United States, reveals their foundational five (F5) players for each of the six market teams in preparation for their inaugural season starting in March of this year.

Coming off the announcement of their team names and crests last week, WER continues to build on the momentum and excitement of the league by announcing foundational five players for each team. Each coach drafted five players for their team with the goal to build dynamic and diverse groups that span positions, but also have connections to the city and communities that they will play in. "We are thrilled to announce the foundational five players for each of our six market teams. Our head coaches selected foundational players of the highest caliber and talent in terms of their on pitch play and expertise but also their off pitch leadership and community connection to lead their teams this season. Additionally, these players have an enduring commitment to the game of rugby and continue to work to grow the game here at WER and beyond", said WER President Dr. Jessica Hammond-Graf .

For Boston, head coach Kittery Ruiz selected Cassidy “Cass” Bargell (Silverthome, CO), Yejadai “Yeja” Dunn (Apple Valley, CA), Emily “Em” Henrich (Orchard Park, NY), Akweley “Q” Okine (West Chester, PA), and Paige Stathopoulos (East Sandwich, MA). Ruiz brings a wealth of experience to the helm of WER Boston and has close ties to New England as she has previously coached as an assistant at Brown University, served as head coach of the Women’s Premier League (WPL) Beantown team, as well as serving as the WPL’s commissioner from 2019 to 2022. Ruiz also brings national team experience into her new role as both a player and coach having played for the USA Women’s National Team 15s from 2006 to 2014 and played in the 2014 World Cup in France, as well serving as an assistant coach for the team since 2023.

Boston Banshees Foundational Five Players

Cass Bargell is from Silverthorne, CO where along with being a multi-sport athlete participating in basketball, gymnastics, swimming, skiing, and snowboarding, she played for Summit High School from 2013 to 2018. No stranger to excellence, Bargell was a state champion every year at Summit and brings a wealth of experience to Coach Ruiz’s roster. Bargell played for Harvard from 2018 to 2022 where she won a National Intercollegiate Rugby Association (NIRA) championship in 2019, Beantown RFC in 2024, and was a member of the USA 7s/15s development pathways from 2016 to 2024 which led to her selection to the USA Senior National 15s in 2024. For WER Boston, Bargell will play the nine, half-scrum position. “Cassidy has faced significant personal challenges to make it back onto the pitch. From the rugby fields of Harvard to representing the USA on the world stage, her story is one of extraordinary resilience. Every setback, every obstacle, became fuel for her relentless pursuit of greatness. She didn’t just overcome her challenges—she transformed them into the strength that defines her as a player and a champion”, said Ruiz.

Yeja Dunn from Apple Valley, CA brings versatility to WER Boston as they will play the hooker, two position, and eight-man for the team. Dunn is no stranger to the New England areas as they played for Dartmouth College from 2012 to 2016, where they were selected as an USA Rugby Collegiate All-American in 2015 and 2016. They also played for Beantown RFC from 2016 to 2024 and were selected to join the USA Player Pool from 2016 to 2018 and again from 2022 to 2024. According to Ruiz, Dunn’s leadership makes them stand out as an unequivocal F5 selection for Boston, “Yeja has been a cornerstone of Beantown for the past eight WPL seasons, a true leader both on and off the field. Their dedication to rugby runs deep, from their time at Dartmouth to forging their path through the USA pathways. With every tackle, every pass, and every step, they’ve shown what it means to lead with heart, commitment, and an unwavering passion for the game.”

Q Okine from West Chester, PA will play the loosehead prop, one position, and second row/lock (4/5 positions) for WER Boston. Similar to her other F5 teammates, Okine has strong ties to New England having played for Harvard from 2015 to 2019 where she became a NIRA champion in 2019 alongside Bargell. After college Okine played for the WPL’s Colorado Grey Wolves (formerly known as the Glendale Merlins) from 2019 to 2020 where she won a league championship before joining Beantown RFC in 2022 where she would play until 2024. “As a strong leader on Beantown, Q embodies the spirit of dedication, showing that true athletes don't just play the game—they elevate it. From two WPL teams to the storied fields of Harvard, she has proven that leadership extends far beyond the pitch. It’s about resilience, commitment, and the ability to inspire others to rise to their fullest potential. Her journey stands as a powerful example of how leadership is earned, not given, and how athletes redefine the game with both heart and hard work”, said Ruiz.

Emily Henrich from Orchard Park, NY has been a highly successful athlete for quite some time as she was nationally ranked aerial skier winning the USA Eastern Championships in 2014. Additionally, Henrich lettered for her soccer and basketball teams at Orchard Park High School. As a rugby player, Henrich was a three-time High School All-American (2014-2016) before moving on to play at Dartmouth from 2018 to 2023. She was named a U20 All-American in 2017 and 2018, U23 All-American in 2023. Henrich also brings international experience to WER Boston as she has 20 caps with USA Eagles 15s, the first being in November 2018 against the Black Ferns and was a silver medalist in the 2019 Pan American Games with USA 7s. In the league’s former iteration, Henrich played for Beantown RFC (2022-2024) and also plays center for the Leicester Tigers in the Premiership Women’s Rugby League. Ruiz expressed the elation of adding Henrich to her squad, stating, “From Dartmouth through the USA Rugby pathways, and now standing proudly on the world stage, her journey is defined by unwavering determination and heart. Returning from the PWR to represent Boston in its inaugural season, she’s not just playing the game—she’s shaping its future. Every setback has been a stepping stone, every new chapter an opportunity to lead and inspire. She proves that with hard work, resilience, and a relentless pursuit of excellence, anything is possible.”

Paige Stathopoulos, the hometown kid from East Sandwich, MA rounds out WER Boston’s F5 players selected by Coach Ruiz. Stathopoulos found rugby in college at Boston University where she also played ice hockey for the Terriers from 2012 to 2016. She then went on to play for Northeast Academy, a program known for developing national and international talent from 2014 to 2019 which led to her selection for the USA Falcon 7s in 2019 and selection to the USA 15s in 2023. Stathopoulos played in the WPL for the Glendale Merlins in 2019 winning a championship alongside her then and now teammate Okine before joining Beantown in 2020 where she played the next four seasons. Stathopoulos will most likely play the hooker, two position for WER Boston. “Paige’s journey is the embodiment of relentless determination. From moving across states to venturing across the pond to play in the PWR, she has never wavered in her pursuit of excellence. She has proven that with passion, perseverance, and unwavering dedication, the path to greatness is built one step at a time”, expounded Ruiz.

About WER

After the 2022 “Ignite the Change” campaign which sought to professionalize women’s rugby in the United States from the former player run and operated amateur league (WPL), Women’s Elite Rugby was founded and formed. The league announced their official launch in 2024 with the inaugural season starting in March 2025 centering six teams in Boston, Chicago, Denver, New York, San Francisco Bay Area, and Twin Cities featuring 180 athletes.

For more information, please contact:
Women’s Elite Rugby
inquiries@womenseliterugby.us

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Women’s Elite Rugby Expands Leadership and Launches Commercial Advisory Council Ahead of Series A Growth

March 3, 2026

WER’s second season kicks off the first week of May UNITED STATES — Women’s Elite Rugby (WER) today announced a series of key leadership and governance advancements as the league enters its Series A raise on the back of its successful inaugural season. The league is strengthening its leadership bench with proven operators, people who have built audiences, grown revenue, and run businesses with fiscal discipline, to help WER scale faster. Over the past several months, WER has also significantly bolstered its executive leadership team. Dr. Jessica Hammond-Graf has transitioned into the role of Chief Sporting Officer, while continuing to serve as President, with oversight of high-performance planning, rugby operations, athlete development, and events. Phil Camm has moved into the role of Chief Commercial Officer, leading the league’s growth strategy. This new leadership structure will report to an already impressive board. At the board level, the league welcomes Priya Oberoi , representing Goddess Gaia Ventures. Her addition deepens the board’s expertise as WER enters its next phase of growth. Oberoi joins board members Randy Little , co-founders Koma Gandy and Jenny Houlihan , and lead investor Deb Henretta. In parallel with these leadership advancements, WER has established a Commercial Advisory Council composed of seasoned industry leaders Teresa Palladino , Liz Anderson , Stacy Jolna , and Rob Candelino . The Council is a senior-advisor group made up of WER stakeholders helping to sharpen the league's commercial plans, focused on marketing, partnerships, broadcast, and investment strategy. More information about the members of WER’s Commercial Advisory Council can be found below. Teresa Palladino Teresa Palladino is a senior marketing executive with global experience building sports and media brands that grow audiences, deepen fan engagement, and drive revenue. She spent a decade at Red Bull creating athlete-led campaigns and partnerships with measurable commercial impact. Most recently, she led brand marketing, storytelling, community engagement, and partnerships for Grand Slam Track’s launch, and earlier helped ONE Championship expand across the Americas through digital and broadcast partnerships. Liz Anderson Liz Anderson is an entertainment and sports marketing leader with 20 years of experience shaping global campaigns. At Netflix, she led strategy for live sports and events, partnering with leagues like the NFL and WWE. She also built the “Netflix is a Joke” brand and marketed comedy worldwide, after leading digital and social strategy at Disney/ABC. Stacy Jolna Stacy Jolna is a C-suite media innovator working across TV, AI, streaming, and social. At TiVo, he built the brand nationwide, secured strategic media investments, and helped drive a successful IPO to a $1B market cap. At News Corp, he created and scaled TV Guide SPOT from concept to a $650M market cap. He also launched CNN Presents and Special Reports, and now leads enViibe, an AI guidance platform for streaming consumers. Rob Candelino Rob Candelino is a globally accomplished Consumer Products executive, investor, advisor and Board member. Most recently, Rob served as CEO of PetSafe Brands, the world’s largest PetTechnology company. Prior to that Rob spent decades at Unilever where he served in a variety of executive roles, most notably as CEO of Thailand and Inland ASEAN. Rob is a Board member of The Scott’s Miracle-Gro Company, where he Chairs the Innovation and Technology Committee, and the Tennessee Theatre. If you have any questions about WER or would like to speak to members of the leadership team please email wer@lindarothpr.com . For the latest news and updates, follow WER on Facebook , Instagram , and LinkedIn . Media images of Women’s Elite Rugby are available HERE . Headshots of WER leadership are HERE . About WER Women’s Elite Rugby (WER) is the first American professional women’s rugby league. The league announced their official launch in 2024 with their inaugural season starting in March 2025 centering six teams in Boston, Chicago, Denver, New York, Bay Area, and Twin Cities featuring 180 athletes. The mission of the WER is to be the defining standard of rugby in the United States. WER is structured on the stable foundation of the Women’s Premier League (WPL), a national, amateur pay-to-play model, high level rugby competition established in 2009. With the creation of Women’s Elite Rugby, world-class women’s rugby will be ushered into the next stage of its evolution and will take women’s rugby in the United States to new heights. For further information visit: https://www.womenseliterugby.us/ .

Women’s Elite Rugby Announces Exclusive 2026 Broadcast Partnership With The Women’s Sports Network

February 18, 2026

All 2026 WER matches will be broadcast live on WSN FEBRUARY 18, 2026 – Women’s Elite Rugby (WER) today announced a new media partnership with The Women’s Sports Network (WSN) , the FAST Studios–backed, women’s-sports-only channel. Through the agreement, WSN will serve as the “The Home of WER” for the 2026 season, delivering live and delayed match coverage on its channel under an exclusive content licensing deal. Fans will be able to watch WER matches through a platform designed for modern viewing habits. WSN is free, ad-supported, and widely available across major smart TVs and streaming platforms, including Roku, Samsung TV Plus, Tubi, Amazon Prime Video, Pluto TV, VIZIO WatchFree+, LG Channels on LG Smart TVs, Fubo, Plex and My Free DirecTV. The distribution allows viewers to access WER content on devices they already own without requiring an additional subscription. “For the fans who can’t join us in person, this partnership with The Women’s Sports Network will bring you closer to the action than ever,” said Phil Camm, Chief Commercial Officer for Women’s Elite Rugby . “WSN shares our commitment to women’s sports, and together we’ll deliver a broadcast that gets tight on the explosive collisions, the relentless pace, and the athletic brilliance and unique personalities of our players across the country. With WSN available across multiple platforms nationwide, more fans, longtime rugby supporters and first-timers alike, can tune in and be part of it.” WER will sit alongside a growing slate of top-tier women’s sports programming on WSN, including NWSL, the LPGA Tour, and SailGP, giving fans a single place to watch some of the biggest women’s competitions. “Women’s Elite Rugby embodies the strength, speed, and competitive excellence that define the future of women’s sports,” said Carol Stiff, President of The Women’s Sports Network . “As the Home of WER for the 2026 season, we’re thrilled to showcase these incredible athletes and bring the intensity of elite women’s rugby to fans everywhere through our free, widely accessible platform.” For media members, photographers, videographers and/or content creators interested in hearing more or attending any practices/matches, please fill out the credential form HERE . Your request will be vetted by our PR team and you will receive a confirmation or rejection notification shortly after applying. For the latest news and updates, follow WER on Facebook , Instagram , and LinkedIn . Media images of Women’s Elite Rugby are available HERE . About WER Women’s Elite Rugby (WER) is the first American professional women’s rugby league. The league announced their official launch in 2024 with their inaugural season starting in March 2025 centering six teams in Boston, Chicago, Denver, New York, Bay Area, and Twin Cities featuring 180 athletes. The mission of the WER is to be the defining standard of rugby in the United States. WER is structured on the stable foundation of the Women’s Premier League (WPL), a national, amateur pay-to-play model, high level rugby competition established in 2009. With the creation of Women’s Elite Rugby, world-class women’s rugby will be ushered into the next stage of its evolution and will take women’s rugby in the United States to new heights. For further information visit: https://www.womenseliterugby.us/ . About The Women’s Sports Network: The Women's Sports Network is the home for women’s sports. A free, ad-supported, 24/7 streaming destination, The Women’s Sports Network is the preferred cable alternative for cord cutters that’s available across Roku, Samsung TV Plus, Tubi, Amazon Prime Video, Pluto TV, VIZIO WatchFree+, LG Channels on LG Smart TVs, Fubo, Plex and My Free DirecTV. Launched by FAST Studios in 2022, The Women's Sports Network is the leading destination where fans can see live games, news and exceptional stories across every women’s sport, including League One Volleyball (LOVB), Ladies Professional Golf Association (LPGA), U.S. Ski and Snowboard,) SailGP, Pac-12, and more – finally leveling the playing field for female athletes. For more information, visit: https://womenssports.com .

WER Announces Closing of Seed Round

January 29, 2026

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WER Co-Founder Hallie Martin Named to Forbes 30 Under 30 – Sports Class of 2026

December 13, 2025

Women’s Elite Rugby (WER) is thrilled to announce that Hallie Martin, Co-Founder and Director of New Media , has been named to the prestigious Forbes 30 Under 30 – Sports list for 2025. This honor recognizes young leaders who are redefining innovation, creativity, and impact across the sports industry—and Hallie stands out as a visionary shaping the future of women’s sports. As one of the architects behind WER’s new media strategy, Hallie has played a central role in building a dynamic, athlete-driven digital ecosystem. Her work has elevated the visibility of women’s rugby, empowered athletes to share their stories, and helped position WER as one of the fastest-growing emerging sports leagues in the United States. “Hallie’s creative leadership and commitment to amplifying athlete voices have been instrumental to our early success,” said Jessica Hammond-Graf, WER President. “Her selection to the Forbes 30 Under 30 list is a tremendous honor and a testament to the bold, innovative approach she brings to WER every day. We are incredibly proud of her.” Forbes highlighted Hallie for her forward-thinking approach to storytelling, fan engagement, and digital innovation—key pillars of WER’s growth strategy. Her ability to merge strategic content creation with a deep passion for equity in sports has helped shape a league that prioritizes visibility, inclusivity, and community-building. Hallie’s recognition places her among an elite group of young changemakers who are challenging traditional models and ushering in the next era of sports leadership. Her work at WER reflects not only her personal excellence, but also a broader movement driving new opportunities for women athletes across professional sports. For the full list of 2026 honorees click HERE.

Women’s Elite Rugby Announces 2026 Head Coaches

November 18, 2025

Pittsford, Vermont – November 13, 2025 – Women’s Elite Rugby (WER), the first professional women’s rugby league in the United States, today announced the head coaches for the 2026 season which will kickoff in May 2026. WER will retain head coaches in five of the six inaugural markets and will bring Kristin Zdanczewicz onboard in a full-time capacity after she served as the acting head coach for a portion of the 2025 season. “We are really excited to be bringing the head coaching team from Season 1 back for Season 2. An inaugural season is always a learning experience for everyone. So, I am excited to see how those lessons learned and successes achieved are actioned on in this second year”, said WER Director of Rugby Jamie Burke . “While the teams in the league compete against each other on the pitch, I am really proud of the way the head coaches have supported each other and collaborated with each other to ensure the ongoing success of the league and we look forward to more of that as we gear up for our second season." “Our coaches were the cornerstone of Women’s Elite Rugby’s on field success in Season 1,” said WER President, Dr. Jessica Hammond-Graf . “Their commitment to player development, teamwork, and culture helped set the foundation for an exciting rugby experience, not only for our players, but also our fans. As we move into Season 2, this group will continue to shepherd our league forward — leading with integrity, vision, and the passion that defines our game.” Player declarations for the 2026 season will begin on December 1. Information will be available in the coming weeks on www.womenseliterugby.us Head Coach Bios Bay Breakers Head Coach: Hannah Stolba Stolba most recently served as the head coach of the Berkeley All Blues Women’s Rugby of the Women’s Premier League (WPL). Stolba has over a decade of coaching experience across all levels of the game and as a player was on two World Cup squads (2010 and 2014). Stolba helped lead the All Blues to a WPL Championship in 2022 and runners up in 2023 and 2024. Boston Banshees Head Coach: Kittery Ruiz Ruiz’s rugby coaching experience spans collegiate, WPL, and USA U20 Women’s National teams. Ruiz most recently has served as both head and assistant coach of the WPL’s Beantown Rugby in Boston and currently serves as an assistant coach with Brown University and an assistant coach with the USA U20 women’s national team. Ruiz represented USA Rugby as a player in the 2010 and 2014 Rugby World Cups, as a part of the 7s pool in 2009. Ruiz was most recently recognized by the WRCRA with the Kathy Flores’ Lifetime Achievement Award. Chicago Tempest Head Coach: Kristin Zdanczewicz Zdanczewicz served as acting head coach for the Chicago Tempest during part of the 2025 season and now returns to lead the team in her first full year as head coach. In addition to her work with the Tempest, she holds a hybrid role at Bowdoin College, where she mentors student-athletes in the weight room and assists the coaching staff with on-field technical development. She also serves as the Lead Physical Performance Coach for USA Rugby’s Women’s High Performance Pathway, creating and implementing performance plans for the U18, U20, and U23 Women’s National Teams. A member of the USA Women’s National Team from 2000–2018, Zdanczewicz represented the U.S. at the 2006 and 2010 Rugby World Cups and captained the team in 2007 and 2009. Denver Onyx Head Coach: Sarah Chobot Chobot, a former USA women's national team player, currently serves as the defense coach for the USA Women’s Eagles. Chobot has held various coaching positions at a multitude of levels since transitioning to coaching in 2018. Chobot, a Michigan native who honed her craft in Minnesota, notably was named the head coach of the American Raptors in 2023 and was the first female head coach in the Super Rugby Americas. Chobot also previously served as the Defense and Forwards Coach with the Raptors. She led the Onyx to the WER Legacy Cup in 2025. New York Exiles Head Coach: Diego Maquieira Prior to his role with the WER, Maquieira served as the head coach for the WPL’s New York Rugby Club, as well as served as the Forward Coach at Columbia University for the Men’s Rugby Football Club and Assistant Coach for the Old Blue Women and U23 Men’s 7s. In his first season with NYRC women, he guided the team to a national semifinal. As a former college football player, Maquieira found rugby later in life, and developed a strong passion for training and developing crossover athletes. Despite his later start in the sport, Diego was skilled enough to play for multiple MLR franchises. TC Gemini Head Coach : Sylvia Braaten Braaten has over 15 years of professional experience in coaching and performance training. Braaten was also the Lead Physical Performance Coach with the USA Women’s national team from 2020 to 2024. In Braaten’s five seasons coaching with Harvard Rugby, she won three NIRA National Championships (2019, 2023, 2024) and one USA 7’s National Championship (2024). Braaten played in the WPL for ten years with the Twin Cities Amazons and has over 15 years of playing experience, with eight years at the international level. Braaten represented USA Rugby in the HSBC 7’s World Series and as a player in the 2014 and 2017 Rugby World Cups. Braaten also completed her Graduate Certificate in Organizational Behavior from Harvard. About Women’s Elite Rugby Women’s Elite Rugby (WER) is a pioneering professional league dedicated to elevating women’s rugby in the United States. Launched in 2025, WER brings together world-class athletes, coaches, and communities to advance the game and expand opportunities for women in sport. With six inaugural teams across major markets, WER is building a competitive, sustainable pathway that inspires the next generation of players and fans. Through tenacity, equity, and innovation, WER is shaping the future of women’s rugby — on and off the field. Learn more at womenseliterugby.us. For the latest news and updates surrounding the league, follow WER on Facebook , Instagram , and LinkedIn . Media Contact: Jessica Poole Acting Director of Communications Jessica.Poole@womenseliterugby.com www.womenseliterugby.us