Aren't you a bit young for women's rugby?
No, it's changing and a lot of younger girls are coming through now. Years ago women only started playing at university but now girls have the chance to learn rugby 'minis' at school. I also benefited from fast tracking - I played one season at under 19s and then went straight through to the Six Nations aged 18. I was the youngest ever female player to be capped.
Are people surprised when you tell them you play rugby?
Yes, always. I don't look like what you'd call a typical rugby player, but then that's stereotypes for you. Our squad's made up of all shapes and sizes. Contrary to popular belief there really is no type.
Nickname?
Mic. Or whatever comes out when they're shouting at me on the pitch. . .
Rugby idol?
I always loved watching Will Greenwood, as much for his attitude as his playing ability. He played his hardest but he'd always smile if he made a mistake.
What kind of character are you?
I get told I'm an old head on young shoulders - I enjoy being around the older ladies. I don't want to mess about because I've been fast tracked so I've got to prove myself.
I appreciate professionalism.
How are the team preparing for the World Cup?
We've been endurance training at a marine commando base on Exmoor. It's been awesome. We've been over assault courses, pushing Land Rovers up hills, going through underwater tunnels, abseiling and all sorts.
How many times did they scream 'drop down and gimme 10?'
They didn't. But they kept trying to wind us up about safety harnesses breaking and all that. They had to tone it down for us because we've got a World Cup to go to.
How does the quality of the women's game compare to the men's?
It's difficult because no matter how hard we train they're always going to be stronger and faster, but on skill I know we can match them, for sure.
What has been done to raise the profile of women's rugby ?
We needed a better standard of competitive rugby so last year the Super League was introduced. Whereas previously you'd get one club whitewashing another, Super League takes the top 88 players in the country, splits them into four teams and it makes for a much better quality game. It'd be nice to get more media acknowledgement of our achievements though.
Your aim for the World Cup?
To win it of course, and I really believe we can. And to show people that we can play some very, very good rugby.
The kids from fame: Women's Rugby World Cup, Edmonton.
Why should we care?
The face of women's rugby is changing: there's better coaching, better quality play and a younger generation of players coming through. With many of the women's matches now being staged just before the men's, it's a sport you'll be seeing much more of in the future.
When's it taking place?
31 August to 17 September in Edmonton.
Is it on TV?
Sky will be screening both semi-finals and the final live, and you can watch all the games live on the official IRB website,
www.irb.com.
Who are the tournament favourites?
New Zealand's Black Ferns are tipped to win their third consecutive title.
And England?
Second favourites from a pool of 12 teams.
And the best of England's kids are?
Kim Oliver Centre, age 22, Clifton RFC. Began her sporting career in judo.
Danielle Waterman Scrum-half, age 21, Henley RFC. Student at University of Wales.
Rachel Burford Centre, age 20, Henley RFC.
Amy Turner Scrum-half, age 22, Wasps. First picked up rugby ball aged 6.
Maggie Alphonsi Flanker, age 22, Saracens. An ex-discus thrower.
The Observer (London, England) (August 27, 2006): p23
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