January 22nd, 2008

Brunel University have awarded a sports scholarship for women’s rugby.

The University, which is part of 2012 Olympic plans and is renowned for its track, field and netball success, has recognised the growing strength of women’s rugby at its West London site.

The Brunel Women’s team has made steady progress up the BUSA rankings over the past four years and are currently playing in BUSA Premiership South. They are also building strong ties with women’s premiership club Richmond. The recipient of the award is England Elite squad member Sara Anastasi, who is currently studying at Brunel for a Physiotherapy degree. Sara takes to the field for Brunel at No. 8 and was 7s captain last season.

Sara has represented England Under 19s in Canada in 2005 and was called to the England A bench twice in 2006.This season, however, Sara has been included in the England Elite 44 for the first time and recently played for England A v USA in the second row.

Simon Culley, Brunel coach and RDO for Wiltshire said: “Sara has shown what great attitude and determined nature can achieve. She has taken full advantage of both her TASS funding, and facilities available to her here at Brunel and has worked hard for her place among the Elite 44.

“She has been a fine role model for the girls she is playing alongside – particularly the eight others who are at various stages along the RFUW performance pathway. We fully intend for Sara to be the first of many future England players to come through the ranks of Brunel Rugby.”

Commenting on the award at the presentation ceremony Sara added: “I am thrilled and grateful to Brunel for the scholarship, especially as it comes from a University that supports so many successful athletes. I am looking forward to utilizing the fantastic facilities Brunel has to offer.

“The reason I chose to study at Brunel was due to its reputation for high academic standards, sport and women’s rugby. I am always proud to run out with the Brunel team, their determination and spirit is outstanding. The scholarship will help me balance my studies with England training demands and matches”.

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