Biography:
Liza ‘Bird’ Burgess, born on 24 March 1964, is a former Welsh women’s rugby union player who has left an indelible mark on the sport. Affectionately known as Bird, Burgess’s rugby career spanned three decades, showcasing not only her exceptional skills on the field but also her unwavering dedication and leadership.
Burgess’s journey in rugby began at Loughborough University in 1983 under the guidance of esteemed coach Jim Greenwood. After graduating, she continued to hone her talents at the Wasps, where she made her international debut for Great Britain against the Netherlands and France in 1986. It was the start of an illustrious career that would see her leave an indelible mark on women’s rugby.
In 1987, Burgess played a pivotal role as she participated in Wales Women’s first-ever international match. This historic moment laid the foundation for what would become a remarkable career. Burgess went on to captain Wales an impressive 62 times, not only showcasing her exceptional abilities on the field but also inspiring generations of aspiring female rugby players.
Her impact on the game extended beyond her performance as a player. During her time with the Saracens, where she spent a decade, Burgess helped form the team and led them to a historic treble, triumphing in the League and Cup in both 15s and the National Sevens. Her leadership and determination shone through, setting the standard for excellence in the women’s domestic game.
Following her retirement from playing, Burgess turned her attention to coaching. She took on the role of coaching the Wales women’s national rugby union team forwards, using her wealth of knowledge and experience to guide and mentor future generations of players. Burgess also served as an assistant coach at Gloucester Hartpury in the Tyrrells Premier 15s, further contributing to the development of women’s rugby.
Burgess’s dedication to the sport was not limited to her own teams and country. In 2017, she joined the inaugural Barbarian women’s team as an assistant coach, sharing her expertise and passion on a global stage. She also played a significant role in encouraging other women to take up rugby, including the influential Maggie Alphonsi.
In recognition of her immense contributions to the sport, Burgess was inducted into the World Rugby Hall of Fame in the class of 2018. This prestigious honor solidified her status as a trailblazer and a true inspiration to women in rugby.
In addition to her remarkable achievements, Burgess has also made history off the field. In September 2019, she became the first woman to join the Welsh Rugby Union national council as a member, demonstrating her commitment to breaking down barriers and promoting gender equality in rugby administration.
Furthermore, in 2019, Burgess was part of the inaugural panel tasked with selecting the World Rugby women’s-15s player-of-the-year award. Her involvement in this esteemed group, consisting of esteemed rugby figures, further exemplifies her influence and recognition within the sport.
Liza ‘Bird’ Burgess’s legacy in women’s rugby is one of resilience, leadership, and unwavering dedication. Her accomplishments as a player, captain, coach, and advocate have left an indelible mark on the sport and paved the way for future generations of women rugby players. She will forever be remembered as a pioneer and a true icon of women’s rugby.
Awards:
– Inductee, World Rugby Hall of Fame (2018)