The IRFU came under scrutiny this week as their attempts to manage the growth of women's rugby in Ireland were deemed insufficient and lacking in foresight.
Seemingly content that women's rugby in this country could sustain its broadening appeal without the significant backing and leadership of a permanent head coach for the national team, the grassroots of the sport are demonstrating just how self-reliant they can be.
Disappointed with last week's series of events, two women's AIL rugby clubs have chosen to take a stance.
Taken from a statement released by Cork's Highfield women's team, they - along with their opponents today Galwegians - have made moves toward what they hope will be a far-ranging protest itself:
We will take to the field with a very important message on our wrists. This message will read #Legacy.
Why you may ask, it's to start a protest which we as clubs and players support with recent developments with women's rugby in Ireland! This will not be "part-time/casual".
With all AIL clubs ideally participating in this protest, the club is hopeful that their desire to be taken seriously will similarly receive support beyond the confines of women's rugby alone.
The most disheartening element of the IRFU's decision to essentially postpone the appointment of a full-time was the effect such instability would have on player development.
Assuring such a stable environment, lead from the top down, is a determining factor of Highfield's decision to act now:
A massive part of the sport is longterm player development which starts from girls teams, right up to international level.
We the players need to show what is meant by this which is to leave a #Legacy. This sport means the world to us. It's out identity, passion and pride.
A necessary response to the IRFU's disappointing treatment of women's rugby in Ireland, it is sure to be a popular cause.
It seems barely plausible that only a number of weeks after they were put in charge of hosting the women's Rugby World Cup, such a careless approach could be taken when dealing with the long-term goals and developments of a steadily growing national sport.
