NIAMH PADMORE became the first-ever member of Barry RFC’s Islanders women’s and girls’ section to have her name on the club’s international honours board, following her selection for Wales under-18s for the Six Nations tournament earlier this year.
The club presented a specially commissioned cap, continuing the club’s tradition of awarding a cap to players who have represented their country.
Niamh, 17, played for Barry from age 11 to Youth level. She said: “We didn’t have a lot of girls then, but I’m hoping now we can get a lot more because female rugby is becoming more popular, and it would be good for the club.”
She played all five matches in the Six Nations tournament at Wellington College, Berkshire, earning her Wales cap, “and then we had a training game against Scotland, but that wasn’t capped”.
Niamh now plays for Cardiff and Vale College, and Cardiff Rugby. At college she is working towards a National Sports Diploma, which includes psychology, anatomy and fitness training, as well as a practical element.
“I’m looking to go to Loughborough University,” said Niamh. “I’m not sure what to do yet, but I know I want to do something within the sport, and obviously play for Loughborough University.”
And after that? “I want to do something within sport, as that is my passion. So, whether it’s coaching, physio, or maybe even playing professionally, that would be amazing. Keep that dream and it may come to life one day.”
Ken Watkins
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