In July 2021, Leicester Tigers announced that it would launch a women's rugby programme, providing on and off-field opportunities for women and girls.
Our sponsorship of the first Tigers Women's team allowed us to see first-hand what it's like to be a part of history in the making. We spoke with Leicester-born team captain Natasha Jones. As a PE teacher in the week and a Fly Half/ Inside Centre on the weekends, she shared an insight into her life as a Tigers player.
What does it feel like to be part of rugby history and an inspiration to the next generation?
It is an honour and a privilege to be a part of rugby history at Leicester Tigers. Being the first women's captain and member of the first women's team means the world to me! We are all paving the way for the next generation of girls/women to become rugby players at the best club in the country.
As a 9-5 worker during the week, and a rugby player and role model on the weekends, what is it like?
In all honesty, it can be difficult at times, but once you learn how to balance your job and rugby commitments, it can work. Ultimately, we want to become fully professional, and hopefully by paving the way now the girls and women of tomorrow can achieve this.
After every game, seeing the amount of support and dedication from our fans makes all the hard work worthwhile. To see their smiling faces and excitement is what dreams are made of!
Growing up, who was your inspiration and how did you get into rugby?
Jonny Wilkinson was my inspiration growing up. His commitment and passion for rugby inspired me to strive to become the best player I can be.It all started when I attended a Leicester Forest East open day with my brother at the age of 8 and I fell in love with rugby! I haven't stopped since.
If you could give your younger self a piece of advice, what would it be?
The advice I would give myself growing up would be to focus on details such as strength and conditioning. This would minimise injury risks and strengthen my body and mind for any selection setbacks.
We are just at the beginning of an exciting time for women’s rugby. How do you see the future unfolding?
I foresee women’s rugby becoming even bigger than it is now. That attendance at matches will grow as well as the uptake of girls and women in rugby. The future of Premiership women's rugby is to become professional!
Our best wishes go out to Natasha and the rest of the team for the remainder of the season.
