University of Bath women’s rugby club delighted as sporting scholar Jenny Hesketh wins first senior Wales cap in Six Nations opener
University of Bath sporting scholar Jenny Hesketh became the latest student to make her senior international rugby debut this season when she started for Wales in their Guinness Women’s Six Nations opener against Scotland.
The Sports Management and Coaching student, who is supported by a Trendell Sports Scholarship, played the full 80 minutes at full-back as Wales narrowly lost 20-18, only being denied a draw by a last-minute missed conversion.
Hesketh, who plays her club rugby for Bristol Bears in the Allianz Premiership, had previously captained England at U20 level before switching allegiance to her mother’s homeland. She has also played for the University women’s 1st team and, this season, has been working with the club off the pitch as a mentor, coach and supporter.
Maria Crowfoot, Head Coach of the University of Bath Women’s Rugby Club, said: “Everyone at the club is delighted to see Jenny earn her first international cap. She has been an integral part of the university club, volunteering her time to assist with training and matches.
“Her insight is so valuable and, being a current player, she is able to pass on up-to-date knowledge and insight, helping to develop our backline and our back three in particular. Pob lwc Jenny!”
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Ahead of Saturday’s match, Wales Women Head Coach Ioan Cunningham said: “Jenny has been excellent in our environment, great playing for Bristol as well when we have watched her and she brings a different dynamic to our back three. Her skill set is excellent, footwork is really good and she kicks the ball well. We are hoping she enjoys and relishes the opportunity.”
Hesketh is joined in the wider Wales Women’s Six Nations squad by fellow Bristol Bears player Mollie Wilkinson, who studies International Development with Economics at the University.
Their selections continue an impressive winter of representation for University students in the Six Nations, with Sports Performance student Archie Griffin making his senior Wales men debut against England at Twickenham.
Fellow BUCS Super Rugby players Scott Kirk, Billy Sela (both England), Ludo Kolade, Murdoch Lock (both Scotland), Ieuan Davies and Louie Hennessey (both Wales) all featured in the U20 Six Nations.
Visit teambath.com/rugby to find out more about combining study and rugby at the University of Bath.
