Maggie Alphonsi Rugby Star Profile and Photos 2011

Sunday, September 11, 2011

Maggie Alphonsi Rugby Star Profile and Photos 2011

Maggie Alphonsi Profile

Well qualified in and out of rugby, Margaret Alphonsi, known as ‘Maggie the Machine’, has not only scored 24 tries while winning 57 England caps but works as a Talent Development Officer for the RFUW in London & the South East. Her scoring exploits include two touchdowns off the bench against Scotland in mid March and others against the United States and three against Canada in the Nations Cup in August.

She obtained the MSc in Sports & Exercise at Roehampton University, a BSc in the same subjects at De Montfort University in Bedford and a BTECH National Diploma in Leisure Studies at Hertford Regional College, Ware.

Lewisham-born Maggie, the current Saracens and England vice captain, previously attended Edmonton-based Eldon Primary School and Salisbury Secondary School, where she was introduced to the game at the age of 14.

It launched a glittering career that includes being named as the 2006 IRB Player of the Year, the 2010 Sunday Times Sportswoman of the Year and becoming the first woman to win the Rugby Union Writers’ Club prestigious Pat Marshall award in 2011. Her lesser known talents include playing the acoustic guitar.

Maggie was quick to add to her distinctions in the opening game of the 2010 WRWC against Ireland. She not only scored England’s bonus point try while generously acknowledging Danielle Waterman giving her the ball but also won the Sky Sports HD Woman of the Match award. Her dynamic performances are an eye-catching feature of England’s campaign.

She has captained Saracens and was a member of their Premiership winning team for four consecutive seasons, starting in 2006 and has been a member of the triumphant England side in the Six Nations for six years. Other accolades include playing in successful teams in the IRB Sevens and the European Championship and Nations Cup.

As for her most memorable game, Maggie said: “This year’s World Cup final was an amazing experience – to play in front of a huge crowd in a good stadium.

“I most admire Emma Mitchell, the England and former Saracens scrum half and Liza Burgess, the Wales and Saracens lock. They are the first women from Saracens to be inducted into the club’s hall of fame. Both have been mentors to me, along with Katie Ball and Amanda Bennett, who have both guided my career with Saracens. I also have the highest regard for Catherine Spencer (former England Number 8 and captain) and Richie McCaw (New Zealand flanker).

“My own goal is that England be regarded as the best team in the world by winning the WRWC. My personal targets are to work hard to maintain my position in the squad and be recognised for my ability as a rugby player. Outside the game, my aim is to become an events manager and plan and organise big sporting occasions.”

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