Maggie Alphonsi

Maggie Alphonsi is synonymous with international women’s rugby and is widely recognised as one of the most famous figures in women's team sports globally.

Prior to her retirement from international rugby in 2014, she earned 74 caps for England, scoring 28 tries and playing a crucial role in England securing seven consecutive Six Nations titles. She was a key part of the squad that clinched the 2014 Rugby World Cup, their first in 20 years, and contributed to the team receiving the BBC’s Sports Personality Team of the Year award.

Post-retirement, Maggie has transitioned into a media professional, providing live commentary for SKY Sports, BT Sport, and the BBC. In 2015, she broke new ground as the first former female player to commentate on men’s international rugby for ITV during the Rugby World Cup and has continued to be involved in ITV Sport's rugby coverage.

Additionally, Maggie was the first former female player to write a column for The Telegraph. In 2016, she became the first England Women’s player elected as a National Member of the Rugby Football Union’s Council, where she is one of only four women amongst 56 members. Her responsibilities include significant contributions to the Diversity & Inclusion Steering Group.

A compelling speaker, Maggie effortlessly connects with her audience, drawing on her experiences in a male-dominated sport. Her influence and story, detailed in her 2023 autobiography ‘Winning the Fight’, resonate far beyond the rugby field.

Raised in South East London, Maggie has balanced her sporting career with academic achievements, earning a MSc in Sports & Exercise from Roehampton University, a BSc from De Montfort University, and a BTEC National Diploma in Leisure Studies from Hertford Regional College. She also holds an Honorary Doctor of Arts from the University of Bedfordshire.