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HPP Athlete Clara Nielson in action for EUWRFC

High Performance athletes in Women’s Rugby Premiership Final

University of Exeter high performance athletes help Bristol Ladies Rugby XV to their first Premiership Final in the clubs history.

Following a dominant display in the semi-final of the Women’s Premiership with a seven try win against Saracens Bristol Ladies are through to face Aylesford Bulls in their 1st Premiership Final in the club's history.

Current High Performance Programme (HPP) athlete and TASS scholar Kayleigh Armstrong and HPP athlete Clara Nielson were among the try scorers with Sports Scholars and England internationals Cat McNaney and Poppy Leitch also flying the University of Exeter flag in the Bristol squad. HPP athletes Hannah Gasgoine and Jeanine Stephenson have also been apart of the Premiership squad this season alongisde Exeter alumna Amber Reed, who recently signed a full time professional contract with England Rugby, captaining the Bristol side having returned from international duty with a commanding performance at fly half.

University of Exeter Women’s Rugby and England U20s coach, Jo Yapp commented “Its brilliant to see so many Exeter current and former students represented in the Bristol side and great we are able to support our most talented women’s rugby players both with the coaching set up and services from the High Performance Programme and TASS but also ensuring they are able to access Premiership club rugby. We wish the girls and Bristol Ladies the very best of luck in the final”

University of Exeter Women’s Rugby captain and current HPP athlete, Clara Nielson commented “We’re really looking forward to our 1st Premiership Final with Bristol Ladies and have worked hard all season to get to this point. We know it will be a tough game but we’re ready to put out a good performance and really challenge for the title”

Bristol Ladies face Aylesford Bulls on Sunday 23rd April at Sixways Stadium in Worcester.

Written by Nicky Savill High Performance Coordinator (Sport)

Date: 20 April 2017