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UoG Physiotherapy student selected for England U20 Women’s rugby training squad

University of Gloucestershire student Lucy Simpson has been named in the latest England Women’s Under-20 rugby training squad while working towards a degree in Physiotherapy.

Lucy, who is a first-year student on the University’s BSc (Hons) Physiotherapy programme, has been included in the first England Under-20 Women’s training squad of the season for a three-day camp this week.

Lucy has played for Premiership Women’s Rugby champions, Gloucester-Hartpury, since joining the University to study full time.

Following this week’s camp, the England Under-20 Women’s training squad will reconvene for a four-day camp on 3-6 February ahead of a series of international fixtures.

The University works with high-performance athletes like Lucy to provide flexibility around their course timetabling, supporting them to achieve their academic goals alongside their sporting ambitions.

Matt Tansley, Head of Sport and Active Life at the University, said: “We are delighted for Lucy. It’s always so special to see one of our students achieving such high standards both on and off the pitch. 

“Being an international athlete and a full-time student is never easy. We have worked with a number of world class athletes over the years, and Lucy is a truly first-class example in terms of what it takes to balance study and her rugby to achieve the best in both. Her commitment, organisation, work ethic and engagement with our staff is exemplary. 

“Her selection is true reward for the talent and hard work she brings every day, and we are really excited to see what Lucy can achieve in the next few years.”

England Under-20 Women’s Head Coach LJ Lewis, who named a 32-player squad, said: “The performances of the included players for their clubs have been incredibly encouraging and all the staff are eager to get involved with a very promising group.

“The training camps scheduled in the coming months are designed to reward that form and to take a step into international rugby for these young players.” 

Picture: Lucy Simpson has been selected to attend England Under-20s Women’s training camp (credit RFU Collection via JMP UK)