Hannah's story

What is it that you like about participating in sport at the University?
I love that I have met some of my closest friends through playing university rugby, they have become my huge, crazy family and I’m so so grateful for all of them. I also feel very lucky to have a huge amount of support across my sport and the university structures with my current injury. It has been really hard to get through but I have felt supported the whole way through.

Have you always played sport/led an active lifestyle?
When I was younger, I struggled to play sports because I felt a bit out of place in sporting environments. When I was 12 though, I joined a local rugby club and it was in rugby that I found a way into being active and loving sport. I felt like I belonged in that environment in a way that no other sport or group had given me before.

How have you found participating in activity here as someone who identifies as being gay?
Growing up I think being queer contributed heavily to constantly feeling left out and like I didn’t belong. This definitely made sport, especially team sports at school, tough to take part in.

Do you think the University is making noticeable efforts to make members of the LGBTQ+ community feel included?
I think the B:Active scheme that Sport, Exercise and Health provides for LGBTQ+ students is great - I wish more students knew it existed!

What’s been your proudest achievement in sport?
A couple of years ago I probably would have said captaining my U18 county rugby team, when I was only 15 years old. I’m still super proud of that but I’m actually even more proud now of my resilience with my meniscus injury. It’s been a really tough year but I’m recovering really well and I’m so excited to get back to rugby next season. I’m also very proud that, instead of taking a step back from the sport for a year, I got stuck in with the Women’s Rugby Club committee, and worked on my Level 2 coaching award.

What would you say were the biggest barriers to participating in activity for you, if any?
I think it’s probably my own insecurities about not feeling like I’m good enough or fit enough to participate.

Do you enjoy the sport/activity culture in the sessions you attend at the University?
I love the supportive and friendly community in the Women’s Rugby Club and I’m so glad I’m a part of it.  

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