Marlie Packer

Marlie Packer, the current England Captain, took off from her West Country origins in 2013 to join Wasps before eventually returning to Bristol. Now, she's dominating the field at Saracens, showcasing her skills.

This talented flanker made her mark in the world of rugby, participating in the Sevens World Cup in Moscow back in 2013. Not stopping there, she also played a crucial role in the 2014 and 2017 World Cup Finals in the 15s format. Marlie's rugby journey began at the tender age of five with Ivel Barbarians, where she honed her craft for an impressive 13 years.

In 2017, she showed her unwavering dedication by featuring in every Six Nations game, particularly shining in the final match against Ireland. Her exceptional defense contributed to an outstanding 34-7 victory, securing both the win and the Grand Slam. Joining Saracens at the start of the 2017/18 season, Marlie's impact was undeniable, playing a significant role as England triumphed in the 2019 Six Nations Grand Slam, winning all five games.

Continuing her phenomenal form, Marlie had a remarkable 2021/22 season, achieving triumphs both at club and international level. She led her team to victory in the Six Nations and Allianz Premier 15s championships, and her outstanding performance earned her the prestigious RPA's England Women player of the year award. Additionally, she was a vital part of the squad that reached the final of the delayed 2021 Rugby World Cup and secured a spot in Simon Middleton's team for the 2023 TikTok Women's Six Nations.

Marlie is a fantastic rugby coach, inspiring, knowledgeable and authoritative, an absolute must for any club for a guest coaching appearance

Bryony Cleall

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Bryony Cleall, together with her sister Poppy, received the honor of being chosen for Simon Middleton's squad in the highly anticipated 2023 TikTok Women's Six Nations tournament.

Hailing from Norwich, Bryony pursued her academic journey while maintaining her dedication to sports. She studied Geography and Sport and Exercise Science at Loughborough University, followed by earning a PGCE in Physical Education from Exeter University. Beyond her athletic pursuits, Bryony also took on the role of Director of Rugby at Harris City Academy Crystal Palace. In an impressive feat, she established the first girls' state school rugby academy, in collaboration with Saracens, where she had the opportunity to teach her fellow Red Rose teammate, Sadia Kabeya.

Having spent considerable time playing club rugby with Saracens, Bryony embarked on a new chapter at the onset of the 2021/22 season, joining the ranks of Wasps. Her journey with the England national team began in the 2019 Women's Six Nations, where she made her debut against Ireland as a replacement and even scored a try. Bryony's exceptional performance and commitment were rewarded with a professional contract for the 2019/20 season.

Bryony is currently playing for Harlequins in the 2022/23 Premiership.

Bryony’s educational background coupled with her stories around battling injuries gives her lots to say as an inspirational public speaker.

Poppy Cleall

Poppy, the formidable player of Saracens, joins forces with her twin sister, Bryony, as they both secure their spots in the highly anticipated 2023 TikTok Women's Six Nations squad.

Poppy's rugby journey began at the tender age of six, and she showcased her skills with Bristol during two stints, from 2010 to 2012 and in the 2016-17 season. Saracens became her rugby home in between, and she rejoined the club for the 2017-18 Tyrrells Premier 15s, ready to leave her mark.

Her England debut came in the 2016 Six Nations, and her talent couldn't be denied. She continued to make her presence felt by featuring in every match during the victorious 2017 Grand Slam campaign. Furthermore, she received a late call-up for the Women's Rugby World Cup that same year, proving her value to the team.

Poppy's versatility shone through as she transitioned between the roles of flanker, No 8, and second row in the 2018 Six Nations, starting in all five games. Undeterred by challenges, she continued to make significant contributions, participating in all five tests of the 2019 Women's Six Nations and aiding Saracens in securing consecutive league titles.

The year 2019 marked a pivotal moment for Poppy as she earned a professional contract, solidifying her commitment to the sport. In the 2020 Six Nations, she left a lasting impact by scoring a remarkable hat-trick in England's dominant 66-7 victory over Wales. Notably, she was also part of the Red Roses squad that made it to the final of the delayed 2021 Rugby World Cup, showcasing her talent on the grandest stage.

Poppy was an absolute inspiration to children and adults at our school...I know the legacy she has left will continue long into the future.
— Lucy Simpson, Leechpool Primary School

Zoe Harrison

Zoe's passion for rugby was ignited by her family's deep-rooted connection to the sport. Her father, John, a former representative of Wales Schools, and her brothers, Alex and Eddie, who made their mark with Wasps and their A League side, served as inspiring figures.

Showing promise at a young age, Zoe joined the talent development group at the age of 14, paving her way to success. In the 2016-17 season, she made her breakthrough into senior rugby with Saracens, where her exceptional skills earned her the title of players' player of the year. Not one to shy away from big moments, Zoe showcased her talent by starting in both the 2018 and 2019 Tyrrells Premier 15s finals for Saracens. In the 2019 final, she left her mark with two tries, contributing an impressive 18-point haul that helped secure back-to-back titles for the club.

Her national team debut for England arrived in 2017, facing off against Canada in the autumn internationals. Zoe made three appearances as a replacement and impressively scored her first points from the tee. Her dedication and skill were recognized, and in January 2019, she was awarded a full-time England contract. Demonstrating her consistency and commitment, Zoe featured in all five games of the 2019 Women's Six Nations, starting in the final three matches as the Red Roses emerged victorious, clinching the Grand Slam.

Continuing her stellar performance, Zoe took part in all of England's Super Series matches, as well as the autumn internationals. Her unwavering presence was felt once again in the 2020 Women's Six Nations, where she featured in every match, showcasing her prowess on the field.

Zoe possesses exceptional qualities as a rugby coach—inspiring, knowledgeable, and authoritative. Her presence alone is enough to elevate any club’s training sessions, making her an absolute necessity for a guest coaching appearance.

Connie Powell

Connie Powell, a formidable hooker, proudly represents Gloucester-Hartpury in the thrilling Allianz Premier15s competition.

Her exceptional talent and dedication caught the attention of the selectors, earning her a spot in the Red Roses squad for the highly anticipated 2021 autumn fixtures. Despite being one of the 11 uncapped players, Connie showcased her abilities on the field, making her debut from the bench in England's resounding 89-0 victory over the USA at the iconic Sixways Stadium.

Her momentum continued to build as she made appearances in three of England's matches during the thrilling 2022 Six Nations campaign, facing off against Scotland, Italy, and Wales. The recognition of her skill and potential didn't stop there, as she was rightfully chosen for the squad that competed in the delayed 2021 Rugby World Cup held in New Zealand.

With her star on the rise, Connie's journey reached new heights as she secured a spot in Simon Middleton's esteemed squad for the highly anticipated 2023 TikTok Women's Six Nations Championship. Her presence and contributions are sure to make an impact on the field as she continues to leave her mark in the world of rugby.

Events like St Neots Girls Rugby Festival are so important for growing the game and just having fun. I remember as a child all my local festivals and the great memories I made. All my best rugby memories are because of the amazing friends and times rugby gave me.
— Poppy Cleall