A Conversation with Rugby Star Taz Bricknell- Tilly J
On Tuesday, I reached out to professional rugby player Taz Bricknell to see if she would be happy to answer some questions, thinking that I would not even get a reply (I even had two backup articles). Just to my luck, Taz did respond with “I would be happy to help where I can”. At just 25 years old, Taz has played for a plethora of clubs: Bristol Bears, Gloucester-Hartpury and is currently playing for Exeter Chiefs. Not only has she represented these clubs as a back-rower, Taz made her nation proud by playing for England U20s, U18s and U18s sevens.
What influenced you to pick up a rugby ball and start playing?
“I come from a huge rugby family who have always played and been passionate about the sport. From birth, I was being dressed in England Rugby baby grows and holding rugby balls bigger than myself. At four years old, my dad started to coach the U7s team at Sheppey RFC and I was made to go and play. It was a really good job, I loved it!”
Have you faced any sexism in rugby?
“Sexism has always been an issue in any sport I’ve played growing up. I’ve always had to earn respect from the boys when I tackle them hard to ground. I’ve always been told that girls shouldn’t play rugby and that it’s a man’s sport. These issues still happen today, more on social media, but are still challenges that many female athletes face.”
What advice would you give to upcoming female rugby players?
“Just enjoy every moment of it. Having a good rugby team is like having another family. A unity that you can truly be yourself with and people that bring the best in you. Don’t listen to other people’s opinions, but play because it’s what you want to do.”
Is there anything in your career that you would change, and if so, what would it be?
“I’ve had my fair share of set backs throughout my career. I’ve had serious injury after injury and at times, allowed that to change my mindest and give up a little. If I could go back, I would change that outlook, and never give up on myself but keep driving forward and use the support around me more.”
If you could play for any club in the rugby, what club would you play for?
“I have just started my journey with Exeter Chiefs Womens and am loving every minute of it. It’s a challenging environment that is bringing out the best in me.”
We saw what happened with the England Lionesses and how women’s football became popular after the World Cup, do you think this will happen with women’s rugby?
“I think, realistically, that women’s rugby is about 5 years behind women’s football. Players are just starting to be paid as professional athletes but still face challenge of working a full/part-time job alongside their training. As the game is becoming more publicised and growing in numbers, I think it will take off. I’m really interested to see what happens after the Women’s Rugby World Cup next year and how we use the exposure to grow the game further.
What is your favourite rugby memory?
“Scoring my very first try for Exeter Chiefs in my debut at Sandy Park.”
Additionally, Taz Bricknell said that the “Worcester Warriors have a special place in her heart. The club went down this year so I moved down South and had to find myself a new team.” Like the Wasps and London Irish, Worcester was forced to close due to financial reasons meaning many players were displaced and had to find a new team. I hope that Taz will enjoy a successful career playing for the Chiefs!
Taz Bricknell is truly an inspiration to all, regardless of gender, age or, even, what sport you play. Breaking barriers is not an easy task but players like Taz are fighting for women in sport. Finally, a huge thank you to Taz for taking her time and effort to answer these questions, it’s not everyday that you get to talk to a rugby star!!
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