Rachael Burford
Burf - doing great ‘stuff’.
Rachael Burford - making change.
I knew Burf was knee-deep in women’s rugby and needed to be included in this project but in what capacity I wasn’t quite sure. I have seen her on the field as an England player. Have seen that she was a rugby pundit and tv commentator. And I had heard that she did ‘lots of other stuff’ !!
So it was great to sit down over an early morning coffee and find out what some of the ‘stuff’ actually was. And it was cool stuff! And important stuff. And stuff that can really make a difference to both the current group of players and also the young girls coming into our sport.
It was also inspiring to hear how many paths rugby can take you down. How many opportunities can arise and new skills be learned. Board rooms and advisory groups were not a place Rachael had ever dreamt of finding herself when she was starting her rugby career - but now it’s a space she not only feels comfortable in but has helped create welcoming to other females.
Plus the Girls Rugby Club that Burford has been instrumental in establishing. Seeing firsthand the NZ systems and how a teenage girl can struggle to find a place to play rugby, really resonated with me. It’s a great concept that surely can be adapted and utilised globally to help create spaces for future generations of female players.
To find out about all the said ‘stuff’ look out for our book due out late 2023.
To find out more about The Girls Rugby Club lick on the link below.