Grace Moore returns to Trailfinders after making her RWC debut this year and getting on the scoreboard against Spain
Irish international Grace Moore featured in every match during the Rugby World Cup 2025. She made her World Cup debut in Ireland’s match against Japan.
“I feel like every rugby player’s dream is to go to the Rugby World Cup,” Moore said. “Or make it to the Olympics if you’re a sevens player.
“It was such an honour and a huge privilege to get to play. It’s a dream that’s been achieved.
“There were points where it didn’t even feel real until we flew over after the training camp. Then it started to sink in.
“When we played in the quarter-final against France at Sandy Park, I was on the bench. I have played at Sandy Park many times in my career with the PWR and other matches. But until that match, I had never seen Sandy Park like that. It was really cool.
“We faced New Zealand in Brighton which is like a home a way from home for me because I went to university there. It felt like a full circle moment which was cool.
“During the anthems, it really hit me as to how far the women’s game has come. We’re getting the recognition we deserve. It was also great to see big brands getting involved with the World Cup and seeing all the tournament branding around the different cities.”
Not only did Moore play in every match for her country during the RWC, she also got on the scoresheet with two tries in Ireland’s match against Spain.
“The first one I score, I was just like, oh my God, because I’d ran that line a few times a bit further out in the pitch on other occasions, but that one, the ball from Claire Boles was a brilliant pass and I could just see the try-line right in front of me.
“I committed to carrying the ball. It was incredible. The celebrations after you’ve scored as a team is brilliant. It’s a team effort but it is nice to get on the end of a score sometimes.
“I didn’t expect to score the second try and it felt more casual than the first one. They’re great memories to have.”
Moore commented on the fantastic atmosphere throughout the World Cup, but placed particular emphasis on when the players were walking through to the stadium, surrounded by fans and their cheers.
“It was incredible to see the crowds outside of the stadiums as the players walked in. A lot of us have our headphones on during walk ins just generally as it’s part of the pre-match process. But a lot of us started taking them out just to absorb the atmosphere.
“There were people playing the drums, blasting music. There were all our family and friends supporting as well. It should be like that for every game – it’s the way forward.”
Ahead of the 2025/26, Trailfinders Women have signed several internationals. The strong recruitment this season has added to the already competitive environment at the Club.
“I think we’ve made some incredible signings,” Moore said.
“We have also retained quite a lot of players. I love the girls and the environment here; the team are incredible. And it does feel like a family environment, but at the same time, we are all pushing each other to get better. There is that real competitive edge, which is what you want, especially as an international as well.
“I’m only going to get better by learning from other internationals and the coaches as well. The standards are just being pushed up constantly and you want to be fighting for your jersey every week.
“I’m excited to be working with all of the girls. As a back row, I’m looking forward to working with Rachel Malcolm. To be learning from her and her leadership and skills that she has is just incredible. I think Fran McGhie and Meg Jones will be incredible to play with as well.
“I think we are going to be very dangerous this year. We were starting to touch the iceberg last year. This year will be even better.”
Outside of rugby, Grace is passionate about giving back. Not only is she an ambassador for the rugby mental health charity LooseHeadz, she is involved in guest speaking and coaching with the Mintridge Foundation.
“My work with Mintridge is more focussed on guest speaking, coaching, and public events. The organisation got in touch with me a couple of years ago and I absolutely love the work I do with them.
“It is a privilege to do those sorts of public events with Mintridge, whether it’s at a school or at a business.”
Moore makes sure to spend time away from work by reading, socialising with friends and family, and walking her dog.
“I do switch off a rugby. I have a dog, I love to walk and play with him. I like to watch a bit of rugby outside of playing, I can’t lie.
“I started getting into reading in the past year. I’m slowly easing myself into it. The Six Nations helped me with that as it’s nice to read when you’re travelling. It’s a positive distraction and eases my mind.
“I enjoy connecting with other people, meeting up with friends and family, and going for drinks with the girls or just doing some other activities. We’re quite the creative bunch.
“I was social secretary for Ireland and sometimes it’s hard trying to cater for what everyone wants to do. So it’s nice when other people organise the activity for you.”
Grace will be attending the welcome back event for Trailfinders’ Rugby World Cup Stars on Thursday 30 October. You can secure your tickets here.
