Leading Ladies: Iconic Female Rugby Players

Rugby’s imposing strength and grit are qualities typically associated with male players crashing into each other on verdant pitches. Yet, the narrative is rapidly evolving, as remarkable women have not only entered the fray but have also carved out their own distinctive legacies. These leading ladies of rugby have demonstrated exceptional prowess, endurance, and a passion that exemplifies the spirit of the game. Here, we shine the spotlight on some of the most iconic female rugby players whose contributions to the sport have been nothing short of extraordinary.

Emily Scarratt - England

Emily Scarratt's name is synonymous with excellence in women's rugby. Hailing from Leicester, she has proven to be a formidable centre and fullback for the England national team, with well over 100 caps. Scarratt’s impressive skill set and game intelligence have seen her amass numerous accolades, including being the top points scorer at the 2014 Women’s Rugby World Cup, which England won. Her talent didn’t go unnoticed, as she also claimed the World Rugby Women’s Player of the Year award in 2019. Off the field, Emily is a vocal advocate for women's rugby, tirelessly working to inspire the next generation of female athletes.

Portia Woodman - New Zealand

A genuine force of nature, Portia Woodman from New Zealand has redefined what it means to be a rugby winger. Starting her career as a netballer, Woodman transitioned to rugby and quickly became a sensation. With blistering pace and mind-boggling agility, she has scored an incredible number of tries, particularly in the Sevens format - at 256 and counting. A two-time Rugby World Cup Sevens champion and an Olympic gold medallist, Woodman’s dominance is unparalleled. Her exceptional athleticism and affable personality make her an icon both on and off the pitch, inspiring young women across the globe to pick up the oval ball.

Maggie Alphonsi - England

Marjorie "Maggie" Alphonsi is often referred to as the female equivalent of Jonah Lomu due to her bruising runs and fierce tackles. Born in South London, Alphonsi had to overcome significant adversity, including battling a chronic leg problem from birth. None of these obstacles deterred her from becoming a stalwart of English rugby. Known for her unwavering commitment and leadership skills, she played a pivotal role in England’s 2014 Women’s Rugby World Cup victory. Since retiring, Maggie has remained in the limelight as a talented pundit and motivational speaker, championing diversity and inclusion in sport.

Niamh Briggs - Ireland

Niamh Briggs is a highly respected figure in Irish rugby, celebrated for her tenacity and tactical acumen. Originally a Gaelic footballer, Briggs brought her versatility to rugby, where she excelled as a fullback. She captained Ireland to a historic victory over New Zealand in 2014 and was instrumental in Ireland's Six Nations Championship wins. Her meticulous understanding of the game and flair for leadership have left an indelible mark on Irish rugby, making her an inspirational figure for countless young athletes.

Gaëlle Mignot - France

Amongst the pantheon of great French rugby players, Gaëlle Mignot’s name shines brightly. With her dynamism and exceptional technical skills at hooker, Mignot has been a cornerstone of the French national team for over a decade. Leading France to multiple Six Nations titles, her tactical nous and ferocity in scrums make her one of the sport's most respected figures. Mignot’s influence extends beyond the pitch, as she actively promotes the growth of women's rugby through various grass-roots initiatives.

Sharni Williams - Australia

An ambassador for the sport both on and off the field, Sharni Williams is an Australian rugby icon. Versatile and skilful, Williams is equally adept in the fifteen-a-side game and Rugby Sevens. As co-captain of the Australian Sevens team, she guided her squad to a gold medal at the Rio 2016 Olympics. Her resilience and dedication make her a role model, particularly within the Aboriginal community, where she works to encourage young women to engage in sport and education.

Wrap-Up

These towering figures of women's rugby have reshaped the landscape of the sport, showing that rugby’s core attributes of strength, strategy and spirit are genderless. Through their breathtaking performances, irrepressible spirit, and commitment to the game, these leading ladies have not only elevated women’s rugby to new heights but have also inspired a new generation of female athletes worldwide. As the panorama of the game expands with each passing season, these iconic players will always be remembered as the trailblazers who gave the world a glimpse of women’s rugby at its finest.