Denver Onyx Ushers in New Era for Women’s Pro Sports in Colorado

Denver Onyx Ushers in New Era for Women’s Pro Sports in Colorado

With the NWSL announcing its newest expansion in Denver and rumors circling the PWHL, women’s professional sports are a hot topic in Colorado. But one team has quickly fallen under everyone’s radar. The Denver Onyx Rugby Club is playing its inaugural season in the Mile High City, marking a new era for the sport and Denver’s enthusiastic sports scene.

As one of six founding franchises in the inaugural Women’s Elite Rugby (WER) league, the Denver Onyx represents a significant milestone for both the city and the broader movement to elevate women’s sports nationwide. Based at Infinity Park in Glendale, the team brings high-level competition and a bold new identity to Colorado’s sports scene.

The Onyx name draws inspiration from Colorado’s rich geological heritage. The black onyx symbolizes strength and resilience, while the Colorado rose onyx—featured in the state capitol—reflects the hues of a mountain sunset. This duality is mirrored in the team’s vibrant black and pink branding, which celebrates both grit and grace. Led by head coach Sarah Chobot, a former USA Rugby Eagle and current national team assistant coach, the Onyx have assembled a roster of elite athletes, including foundational players Erica Coulibaly, Rachel Ehrecke, McKenzie Hawkins, Maya Learned, and Tahna Wilfley.

The Denver Onyx kicked off the season on March 29th, marking the return of professional women’s sports to Denver for the first time since the Colorado Chill basketball team folded in 2007. As the league stands right now, Denver sits at the top with a 5-0 record and 25 points. The New York Exiles are in hot pursuit behind them with a 3-3 record.

More than just a team, the Denver Onyx embodies a cultural shift—one that champions equity, visibility, and opportunity for women in sports. Their presence on the field is a powerful statement: Denver is ready to lead the charge in the next chapter of women’s professional athletics. Currently, 8 Denver Onyx players are representing the United States at the 2025 Rugby World Cup in England. They are expected to return to the team before the next home match on May 24th vs. Boston.