Ireland's kicking coach Gareth Steenson says working with the women's national rugby team has injected new energy into his coaching career as they prepare for their Six Nations opener against England.
Steenson, who joined Ireland's coaching staff in 2024 after a successful playing career with Exeter Chiefs, described the current squad as "so enthusiastic to be around" and credited them with giving him "a resurgence of energy."
"They have given me a release of life," Steenson told the Ireland Rugby Social podcast. "The best thing was, I didn't have any baggage coming in and I see it for what it is."
Ireland will face the formidable challenge of world champions England at London's Allianz Stadium on Saturday, with over 67,000 tickets sold—a tournament record. Despite England's dominant run of seven consecutive Six Nations titles and an unbeaten streak dating back to 2018, Steenson views the opening fixture as an ideal opportunity.
"I think it is a great way for us to start the tournament, I really do. It is an opportunity [to see] where England's heads are at. The last time they played was a World Cup final. Is it going to be a homecoming for them? Maybe."
Steenson pointed to Ireland's men's team as inspiration, emphasizing the importance of taking the game to their opponents. "If ever there was a template—the men. What the men did in the Six Nations is exactly what we want to do," he said.
The squad features nine uncapped players, with flanker Erin King stepping in as captain after winger Amee-Leigh Costigan announced her pregnancy with twins. Ireland aims to build on their third-place finishes in the 2024 and 2025 Six Nations while moving past their quarter-final World Cup exit to France.
Looking ahead, Steenson expressed optimism about the team's long-term prospects, noting that most of the current squad could still be competing in the next World Cup cycle. "In theory, there are a couple who might not be there but from a point of view of age, wanting to get better and to learn, it is so enthusiastic to be around," he added.
For Steenson, the match represents the pinnacle of competitive rugby. "For our girls, this is why you play the game, this is why I played the game, to play in these big days."