Dr. Sara Edwards Serves as Team Physician for Bay Breakers in Inaugural Women’s Elite Rugby Match

Posted on: April 7th, 2025 by Our Team

Dr. Sara Edwards, an esteemed orthopedic surgeon specializing in sports medicine at UCSF, recently fulfilled her role as team physician for the Bay Breakers during their inaugural match in the Women’s Elite Rugby (WER) league. The Bay Breakers, representing the San Francisco Bay Area, are one of six teams participating in WER, the first professional women’s rugby league in the United States, which commenced its inaugural season in March 2025.

The Bay Breakers have established their home venue at the historic Grape Bowl Stadium in Lodi, California. Under the leadership of head coach Hannah Stolba, a former U.S. national team player and accomplished coach, the team has assembled a roster featuring both seasoned and emerging rugby talent.

Dr. Edwards brings extensive experience to her role, having previously served as the team orthopedic surgeon for UC Berkeley, where she provided care for athletes across multiple sports, including football and rugby. At UCSF, she continues to advance the field of sports medicine through her clinical practice and academic contributions.

Her involvement with the Bay Breakers underscores her commitment to supporting athletes at all levels of competition. By ensuring the health and safety of the players, Dr. Edwards plays a crucial role in the team’s performance and the broader success of the Women’s Elite Rugby league.

The establishment of WER and the participation of medical professionals like Dr. Edwards mark significant milestones in the development of women’s professional sports in the United States. As the season progresses, the Bay Breakers and their dedicated support staff continue to contribute to the growth and recognition of women’s rugby nationwide.