Sarajevo, June 12, 2025 — In a story of grit, passion, and determination, Bosnia and Herzegovina’s women’s rugby team is on the rise — and they’re aiming for the world’s biggest sporting stage: the 2028 Olympic Games.
What started as a grassroots movement just a few years ago has now evolved into a disciplined and driven national team. Despite facing financial constraints, limited infrastructure, and a lack of domestic exposure, these women are rewriting the script for female athletes in the Balkans.
🌟 A Dream Takes Shape
Under the guidance of head coach Amra Džanko, the team has made impressive progress in recent European Rugby Sevens tournaments. Their recent showing at the Rugby Europe Women’s Sevens Conference saw them defeat higher-ranked teams and earn a place in the Olympic qualification pathway for emerging nations.
“We know we’re not favorites,” said team captain Lejla Avdić, “but we have heart, and we’re not afraid of the challenge. Representing Bosnia on the Olympic stage would mean everything.”
🛠️ Building from the Ground Up
The journey hasn’t been easy. Bosnia lacks a professional women’s rugby league, and many players juggle full-time jobs or university studies while training in the evenings. Their equipment is often secondhand, and travel to international tournaments depends heavily on crowdfunding and sponsorship appeals.
Yet despite the odds, the team continues to grow — and to inspire. Youth participation in girls’ rugby is rising in Sarajevo, Mostar, and Banja Luka. Local clubs have seen a 40% increase in female enrollment since 2023.
💬 Global Support and Local Pride
International rugby bodies and Olympic development programs have taken note. Through support from World Rugby’s “Get Into Rugby” initiative, Bosnia has received access to training sessions, coaching resources, and exchange programs.
“We’re building something bigger than just a team,” says Džanko. “This is about changing perceptions, empowering women, and showing the world that Bosnia belongs on the global rugby stage.”
🔭 What’s Next?
Bosnia will compete in the Rugby Europe Olympic Qualification Repechage later this year. If they finish among the top teams, they’ll advance to the final global qualifier in 2026 — one step away from Los Angeles 2028.
Whether they make it or not, Bosnia’s women’s rugby squad is already winning hearts, defying expectations, and laying the foundation for future generations of athletes.
