From Blaydon to England: Bishops Beds is proud to support Anna’s rugby journey

At Bishops Beds, supporting our local community is something we genuinely care about. This season, we’re especially proud to be sponsoring Anna, whose rugby journey is as inspiring as it is impressive.

Anna’s story began at a young age after watching her brother play rugby and becoming determined to get involved herself. Week after week she asked to join a team, until she eventually told her mam she’d go and find one on her own if she had to. She was just eight years old at the time.

That determination led her to Blaydon Rugby Club, where coach (and Bishops Beds Managing Director) Paul Vinnicombe welcomed her into the team and helped her take her first steps in the sport.

It didn’t take long for Anna to make her mark. She was awarded Best Newcomer in her first season, and from there her progress only accelerated. Consistently selected to play, she stood out among a strong group of players and quickly became a key part of the team.

However, like many young girls in rugby at the time, Anna faced a challenge when she reached secondary school. Changes in regulations meant she could no longer play contact rugby alongside the boys she had grown up playing with.

It was a difficult moment for both Anna and her family, who had been closely involved with the team. Despite this setback she continued her journey, moving to Tynedale Rugby Club at age 11.

Her time there came with its own challenges, particularly as one of the youngest players in her age group, but Anna’s resilience carried her through. She went on to represent her county, Northumberland, at U15s level before progressing to the U18s squad.

At 16 she was selected for the North East & Cumbria Centre of Excellence, and by 17 she had been scouted by England. She made her debut for England U18s in the first ever U18s Six Nations in Scotland, and in the same season she was given the opportunity to compete in Prague at the European U18s 7s competition.

She went on to play two seasons at U18s level, followed by a year representing England under-20s; a remarkable achievement and a testament to the commitment she has shown since those early days in Blaydon.

Today, Anna is 21 and completing a degree in Accountancy and Finance at the University of Exeter where she continues to play rugby and focus on her studies.

Anna is a fantastic example of what can be achieved through dedication, resilience, and a genuine love of the game. She also represents the positive impact that sport can have on both physical and mental wellbeing; from building confidence to creating a strong sense of community, rugby has played a key role in shaping her journey.

We’re delighted to be supporting Anna this season and celebrating everything she has achieved so far. Stories like hers highlight the importance of grassroots sport and the opportunities it can create, not just for elite performance, but for personal growth and lifelong experiences. At Bishops Beds, we’re proud to play a small part in that journey and look forward to seeing what Anna does next.