Scrum-Half
If completing a degree and being a member of last year's committee wasn't enough, Ellen also ran for and was elected as Deputy President of Keele University's Athletic Union (KUAU) for 2017-2018 which is a massive achievement. Doing an amazing job in holding the team together on the pitch, this fierce number 9 will be thoroughly missed. It's fair to say that she will be a tough act to follow.
Front Row
At the beginning of the year, Amy held the role of Vice Captain. When the club needed a new Team Captain she happily stepped into a role which could have a been a struggle for anyone. However, Amy being a relentless individual, kept a cool head and with the help of the committee brought us through the season very successfully. Amy has now been elected as the President of KUAU for 2018-2019 and we are very happy to have her around campus for the next year but also excited to see her progress at this level of leadership.
Right Wing
Zaha was Club Captain for the 2017-2018 season. She was very considerate of others in the way she handled any situation that came her way. Organised, enthusiastic and quick to give encouraging words when needed, we seriously value all the work Zaha did in keeping our club running smoothly. Like a couple of other 3rd year medics on the team, Zaha will be on placement for the next year.
Number 8
A dominating force in our matches, we will miss this bundle of pure energy both on and off the pitch. Ally gave a great example in taking new and less experienced players under her wing and making sure they were comfortable. She also did well to inspire her team members to take risks and be confident in their positions.
Full Back
Sophia brought her immense speed and quick judgements in game situations to every match she played. Sophia also began to play regionally in Wales last season. Being a medic, Sophia will be on placement for her 4th year, but we couldn't be more thrilled to see where her rugby career goes.
Front Row
Forward of the Year for 2017-2018 couldn't have gone to a more deserving player. Sacha put in 110% effort every time she stepped out to play and she proved to be a very grounding person for people off and on the rugby pitch. Although we would like for her to be with us longer, we wish her all the best in everything post-Keele.
Second Row
Mikayla came to Keele for on an exchange year from Ohio last season and she proved to be an formidable force on the field as well as in the gym. Being new to rugby, the rules of the game were a struggle for her to understand but as she asked the right questions and showed determination to the sport, Mikayla quickly progressed and began playing with the 1st 22 in BUCS games. Mikayla was an incredible asset to our team in this past season and will definitely be missed.
Right/Left Wing
Hawys was last year's charity secretary and she did amazing work in this role for the Gingerbread Centre, proposing new ideas to the club involving how we could raise more money for out causes. We are hoping to see Hawys back after her placement year.