Jo Yapp exits with hope for ‘incredibly talented’ group of young Wallaroos

Departing Wallaroos coach Jo Yapp insists the future “looks great” for the team, with rising stars as young as 18 years of age stepping up as key members of this side throughout their campaign at the 2025 Women’s Rugby World Cup.

Caitlyn Halse was one of Australia’s standout performers from the pool stage, with the teenager scoring four tries in the team’s first two matches. Halse was particularly impressive in the thrilling 31-all draw with the USA at York Community Stadium.

Samantha Wood and Faitala Moleka formed a young halves partnership that seemed to go from strength to strength throughout the showpiece event. Of the 23 players selected to face Canada in Saturday’s quarter-final, 12 of them were aged 25 or younger.

Swys De Bruin on his quarterfinal tactics against Black Ferns

Swys De Bruin on his quarterfinal tactics against Black Ferns

While Yapp’s time with the Wallaroos has come to an end, with the former England international returning home after an impactful stint in Australia, the coach remains upbeat about the direction the team is heading in – led by captain Siokapesi Palu.

“This is an incredibly young and talented team. We’ve got 20- and 18-year-olds in key positions. That’s the spine of the team and what they’re capable of now providing they get the backing they deserve, looks great for the future,” Yapp told reporters.

“They’re an incredibly talented group but also really good people and I’ve really enjoyed working with them. I’ve created memories for a lifetime and so have my family.”

Australia fired an early shot against Canada but ultimately couldn’t keep up, as the team ranked second in women’s rugby running away with a 46-5 win at Bristol’s Ashton Gate. Desiree Miller scored Australia’s sole try, before the Canadians piled on 41 unanswered points.

Sophie de Goede was received Player of the Match honours after starring, with the goal-kicking lock standing out with some impressive carries and a try. De Goede left the field with 15 minutes left to play as one of the game leaders for total carries and running metres.

Canada scored seven tries, with 38-year-old Karen Paquin having the last try-scoring say with an effort in the 76^th minute. That capped off a memorable performance for the Canadians, who will now face the Black Ferns in a World Cup semi-final.

“We were beaten by a better team. Canada came out and we knew that if we allowed them to get quick ball, we know exactly what they’re capable of, and that’s exactly what we saw in that first half, so credit to them,” Yapp said.

“We came out the second half and threw at it what we could. We had a put more ball and tried to stop that line speed but the game was already lost.”