This year’s Women’s Six Nations sees five rugby players from Loughborough College representing their country as the teams prepare for their third round matches this weekend.
Amelia Harper made her debut in England’s first game, when they beat France 19-13 and Loughborough College sixth form student Morwenna Talling joins Amelia on Simon Middleton’s squad. After a second victory for the side, against Scotland, England currently top the standings and remain on course to defend their Grand Slam title as they prepare to host Ireland for their next match on 23 February.
Leah Bartlett, who is studying for a degree in Sports Science with Loughborough College, meanwhile started Scotland’s first two games. Former College sport student Isla Alejandro was also selected by head coach Phillip Doyle for the team who, following defeat against Ireland and England, are seeking their first win of the tournament when they travel to Italy for their next match.
Loughborough College elite sport tutor Sarah Bonar is playing in her fourth Six Nations with Scotland and hopes for better weather when they face Italy than their last game against England, which saw players battle freezing conditions at Murrayfield. “That was really surreal,” she admits.
“I think Italy will be an exciting match. It is one of our target games alongside Ireland and Wales. We obviously want to make ourselves proud at Six Nations and to do well but we are still a very young side and we are realistic about what we are trying to achieve. The aim is to learn from each game and to keep building. Our main focus is the World Cup in September. A few of the girls were involved in previous world cup qualifiers but if it happens this time it will be a first for most of us.”
“Many of our tutors are current and former elite athletes and Sarah is a great role model to have on our programme. The students really benefit from that first -hand expertise she shares in the classroom. They are always eager to hear the latest news whenever she returns from a match,” said Andy Motch, work related deputy manager for elite sport at Loughborough College.
James Maudsley, head of Loughborough College Sport Academies, added: “We are delighted for Morwenna regarding her selection for England in the Six Nations. Her rapid rise at Loughborough Lightning is phenomenal and she has grasped every opportunity made available to her. She is a testament to the effort she puts into her training. Everyone involved with the Loughborough College Women’s Rugby Academy is exceptionally proud to have Morwenna involved with the programme and looks forward to seeing how she fares making the step up to senior international rugby. It’s also fantastic to see former Loughborough College Sport learners Amelia and Leah making their international debuts too. It shows the programme that has been in place for past five years can make international superstars.”
Pictured: Isla Alejandro is one of five rugby players from Loughborough College representing their country at this year's Women's Six Nations