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Phaidra Knight (born July 4, 1974) is an American former rugby union footballer who made a significant impact on the sport and paved the way for future generations. As a member of the United States national team from 1999 to 2017, Knight’s legacy in women’s rugby is marked by her exceptional skills and remarkable achievements.
Huriana Manuel is a renowned New Zealand rugby union player who has made significant contributions to the sport. Her natural talent and dedication earned her a place in the prestigious Black Ferns, the New Zealand women’s sevens team. Manuel’s exceptional performance and leadership skills were instrumental in securing the victory for New Zealand in the Rugby World Cup. Her induction into the World Rugby Hall of Fame solidifies her place in rugby history for years to come.
Fiao’o Fa’amausili, a former New Zealand female rugby union player, has had a remarkable career that spanned over a decade. She represented the Black Ferns, New Zealand’s women’s national rugby union team, in five Rugby World Cups and was a member of the winning squad in the 2010 Women’s Rugby World Cup. Fa’amausili’s dedication, skill, and leadership have made her an inspiration to women and girls in rugby and beyond, leaving an indelible mark on the sport. She was also appointed an Officer of the New Zealand Order of Merit for her services to rugby in 2018.
Jessica Andrea Watkins, the accomplished American astronaut, geologist, and aquanaut, has left an indelible mark on the world of space exploration. Born on May 14, 1988, in Gaithersburg, Maryland, to Michael and Carolyn Watkins, Jessica’s upbringing was marked by curiosity, ambition, and a drive for excellence.
Josie Rachel Pearson MBE, born on January 3, 1986, is a Paralympian wheelchair rugby player and athlete from England. She made history by representing Great Britain in the 2008 Summer Paralympics as the first woman to compete in wheelchair rugby for her country at the Paralympics. Although initially a sprint athlete, Pearson switched to throwing events and qualified for the 2012 Summer Paralympics in both discus and club throw in the F51 class. She went on to achieve a remarkable feat, winning the gold medal in discus and setting a world record distance. Pearson’s inspiring journey is marked by resilience, determination, and unwavering dedication.
Anna Mary Richards MNZM, born on December 3, 1964, is a former New Zealand rugby union player who has left a lasting impact on the sport. Representing New Zealand at four World Cups (1998, 2002, 2006, and 2010), Richards displayed remarkable talent and dedication throughout her career.
Margaret Alphonsi, born in 1983 in Lewisham, south London, became one of the most celebrated figures in women’s rugby, overcoming adversity and leaving an indelible mark on the sport. Her remarkable achievements were recognized with awards such as Sunday Times Sportswoman of the Year and induction into the World Rugby Hall of Fame. Alphonsi continues to make a positive impact through coaching and her involvement in charitable organizations.
Carol Isherwood OBE, born on July 27, 1961, in Leigh, Greater Manchester, England, is a prominent figure in the history of women’s rugby. An English former rugby union player, Isherwood played a vital role in establishing women’s rugby and has made groundbreaking contributions to the sport. Her leadership, determination, and dedication have left an indelible mark on the game and have paved the way for future generations of female rugby players.
Liza ‘Bird’ Burgess, a former Welsh women’s rugby union player, has left an indelible mark on the sport. Her exceptional skills on the field, unwavering dedication, and leadership have inspired generations of female rugby players. She has not only excelled as a player but also made significant contributions as a coach and advocate for gender equality in rugby administration. Her remarkable achievements have earned her a place in the World Rugby Hall of Fame.
Kathleen Flores, known as Kathy Flores, was an American rugby union player and coach. She excelled in various sports during her education, eventually earning a Bachelor of Science degree in physical education. Flores made a significant impact on the sport of rugby, both as a player and coach, representing the USA in international competitions and contributing to the growth of women’s rugby in the United States. Her achievements and dedication left a lasting legacy in the world of women’s rugby.
Alice D. Cooper is a pioneer of women’s rugby union, in England and internationally. She was born in Edinburgh, Scotland, and her passion for the sport began in 1986 when she met two members of the Richmond Women’s rugby team during a night out.
Lowri Morgan is a prominent Welsh television presenter, adventurer, and ultra-marathon runner. She found success as a presenter, notably hosting S4C’s coverage of the World Rally Championship and the BBC’s flagship rugby show, Scrum V. Her determination and passion in pursuing ultra-marathons, like the Amazon Marathon and the 6633 Arctic Marathon, have established her as a respected figure in the world of extreme endurance running. Morgan’s significant contributions and accomplishments make her an influential figure in both the realms of television and women’s history.
Heather Moyse OPEI is a Canadian athlete and two-time Olympic gold medalist, representing Canada in international competition as a bobsledder, rugby union player, and track cyclist. She has achieved remarkable success and has been recognized with numerous awards and honors throughout her career. Moyse’s journey in bobsleigh has been especially notable, with record-breaking performances and impressive results at the Winter Olympics and World Cup circuit. In addition to her athletic achievements, Moyse is also admired for her resilience, dedication, and inspirational spirit.
Anne Charlotte McClain, born on June 7, 1979, is a Colonel in the U.S. Army, engineer, and a NASA astronaut. Her call sign, “Annimal,” is a nod to her rugby days and is also used in her Twitter handle, AstroAnnimal. McClain’s journey to becoming an astronaut is a testament to her determination and resilience.
Dame Farah Rangikoepa Palmer is a renowned professor at Massey University and former captain of New Zealand’s women’s rugby union team, the Black Ferns. Known for her exceptional talent and leadership abilities, Palmer led the team to multiple victories, including the 1998 Women’s Rugby World Cup. In addition to her sporting achievements, she also excelled in academics, completing her PhD while pursuing her rugby career. Palmer’s significant contributions to the sport have been recognized with several prestigious awards and honors.
Mary Forsyth, a trailblazer and pioneer in the world of women’s rugby union, found her passion for the sport while at Penn State University. Despite facing financial constraints, she made the courageous decision to switch from athletics to rugby and became an integral part of the women’s rugby team. Her dedication extended beyond the field, as she played a key role in organizing the inaugural Women’s Rugby World Cup in 1991, even while being seven days away from giving birth. Mary Forsyth’s contributions to the sport and her journey serve as an inspiration to female athletes around the world.
Cheryl McAfee (née Soon) is a former Australian rugby union player who made significant contributions to the sport and left a lasting impact on women’s rugby. Born on September 23, 1975, McAfee’s talent, dedication, and leadership qualities propelled her to excel in both fifteens and sevens rugby.
Sue Dorrington (born 10 June 1958) is a former English rugby union player and pioneer of the women’s game, in England and internationally. She not only represented Richmond but also had the honor of donning the jerseys of both Great Britain and England in test matches. Dorrington’s contributions to women’s rugby extended far beyond her prowess on the field. Alongside her teammates Deborah Griffin, Alice Cooper, and Mary Forsyth, she played a pivotal role in organizing the very first Women’s Rugby World Cup in Wales in 1991.
Deborah Griffin OBE is a pioneer in the growth of women’s rugby, both in England and globally. She began her rugby journey during her time at university in the 1970s, and further honed her skills while playing for the Richmond Women’s Rugby Club. However, her impact on the sport extended far beyond her playing career.