Premier 15s: How rugby changed World Cup winner Rachael Burford’s life

World Cup winner Rachael Burford seeks a first Premier 15s title on Saturday, but rugby has already given her much more than trophies.

As a child, the England and Harlequins centre refused to read out loud at school because she was embarrassed at her ability.

Now, Burford gives speeches on leadership, champions women’s rugby on the world stage and encourages young girls to take up the sport through her Burford Academy.

“I stand up and do public speaking and look back at the girl in school who wouldn’t read out loud because she couldn’t read very well so she was sent out of the class,” said the 32-year-old, who will captain Harlequins against Saracens on Saturday in the final of the Premier 15s – the top tier of English women’s rugby.

“It was really embarrassing and I’d go all defensive and that’s why I’d get kicked out. Now I stand here with two GCSEs, but I own my own business and do my own accounts.

“I couldn’t do any maths at school but now I can because of what rugby’s taught me – resilience, hard work and determination.”

Burford, who made her debut for England aged 19, has come a long way since she took up rugby at six years old and is now one of the leading figures in the women’s game having won the World Cup in 2014.

Shortly after, she became the first female professional player on the Rugby Players’ Association players’ board and sits on World Rugby’s Women’s Advisory and Rugby Committees.

Now, when Burford speaks to young people about her experiences, she is always honest about her past academic struggles.

“I know that there will be kids in that room who will be in the same situation,” she added. “They struggle academically but they’ve got something they’re really good at.”