Player Profile: Yvonne Nolan
Yvonne Nolan is one of Old Belvedere’s most distinguished women’s figures, whose influence has stretched far beyond the club and onto the global stage of world rugby.
A proud Belvo player, Yvonne wore the black and white jersey with distinction and went on to represent Ireland at the 2006 and 2010 Women’s Rugby World Cups, earning recognition as a tough competitor and respected teammate. After hanging up her boots, Yvonne combined her professional career in law with a growing role in rugby governance. She established herself as a leading voice in the legal and regulatory side of the game, eventually becoming Senior Legal Counsel at World Rugby. In this role, she has been at the centre of key decisions shaping the sport’s future, from disciplinary matters to player welfare and tournament regulations.
Her expertise and leadership culminated in her appointment as Competition Director of the 2025 Women’s Rugby World Cup, placing her at the heart of the biggest tournament in the history of the women’s game. Responsible for overseeing the smooth running of the competition, her remit covered everything from tournament rules and standards to ensuring the highest level of integrity on the field of play.
She continues to remain closely connected to the club, and her success is a source of immense pride; proof that the black and white jersey can lead not only to international honours on the pitch but also to leadership at the very top of the game.
