Amber Reed wins BUCS Sports Woman of the year

The National Governing Body for Higher Education Sport in the UK, BUCS saw 155 institutions compete in over 50 sports in the 2012/2013. Every year the season culminates in a glitzy awards ceremony where outstanding teams and athletes are recognised for their achievements.

Amber was selected from 1000s of female athletes across the country for her outstanding achievements both for the University and her country. Captaining the Women’s rugby club Amber has led the team to victory in BUCS National Championship this year. In November 2012 she was also selected for the England women’s senior rugby squad and has become a regular starter for the side, competing in all of this year’s Six Nations matches and becoming the second highest scorer of the whole tournament.

Assistant Director of Sport (Performance and Competitions) Nick Beasant commented: “Amber’s commitment to rugby at the University and for her country has been an inspiration to those around her and is only matched by her modesty. Amber thoroughly deserves this award as it was her standout leadership which helped guide the Women’s Rugby team to their historic win at Twickenham in March.”

The award is a mirror of the acclaim that Amber received at the University of Exeter Athletic Union Awards where she also picked up Sports Woman of the Year alongside Best Team with her women’s rugby team mates.

Out-going Athletic Union president Joe Batten commented: “Amber has been an asset to the women’s rugby team, leading them to some fantastic achievements this year. Off the field she is also an outstanding contributor to sport in Exeter, regularly volunteering to coach rugby to girls at St Luke’s School through our Social Sport.”

Graduating this year Amber was unable to receive the award in person. Instead, she is currently travelling New Zealand with the England women’s senior women’s rugby squad for a three match test series against World Champions the Black Ferns. Nick said: “Throughout her three years at University, Amber has been an outstanding athlete and team player. It is always sad to see players of such quality graduate and move on, but Amber leaves with our very best wishes and I am sure that great success will continue to follow her in all that she does.  Everyone at Exeter will be following her progress with great interest.”