Rochelle Clark retires as most capped women’s rugby player in history following 15-year England career
Affectionately known as ‘Rocky’, Clark retires having made the most England appearances of any male and female player with 137 caps to her name
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.Rugby World Cup winner Rochelle Clark, the most capped player in women’s international history, has announced her retirement after a glittering 15-year career with England.
The 37-year-old prop, who will continue her club commitments this season with Wasps, was part of the England side that lifted the Women’s Rugby World Cup in 2014 and also reached the final in 2006, 2010 and in last year’s final where the Red Roses were beaten by New Zealand.
In total, Clark has played at four different World Cups, and in November 2016 she surpassed Jason Leonard as the most-capped England player across both genders, going on to make a total of 137 appearances and scoring 23 tries along the way – including one on her record-breaking appearance.
“It’s with a heavy heart that I have decided it is time to retire from international rugby,” Clark announced on Tuesday.
“To receive my first cap was a dream come true and it was with the same pride and hunger that I walked out a further 136 times for England. It was always an honour and a privilege to take to the pitch wearing the rose.
“I look back on my 15-year England career and think of the friends I have made and the opportunities we were given. I have shared some incredible experiences with so many great people.
The highlight has to be winning the 2014 World Cup, made all the more special having come close twice before.
Clark also turned out for Worcester Valkyries earlier in her career before moving to Wasps, and she will combine her commitments in the Tyrrells Premier 15s this season with her training to become a Level 4 coach, as well as continuing in her role as head coach of Chesham Stags and as a personal trainer.
She also paid tribute to those who have helped her along the way to a record-breaking career,
“To those who kept me going when times were tough and who made the experience so special, I want to say a huge thank you; all my friends and family, team mates, coaches and support staff.
“I have been incredibly lucky to wear the shirt through some major changes to the game, playing as both an amateur and professional. I am excited for the direction women’s rugby is headed and am proud of the contributions we made as players along the way.
“I look forward to continuing on the pitch with Wasps and in my career as a coach for Chesham Stags.”
Her retirement from England duty comes when the Rugby Football Union are looking to professionalise the entire women’s game, having had to prioritise between 15s and Sevens up to now. Following the World Cup final appearance last August, the RFU decided not to renew the 15-a-side contracts and instead offered 17 full-time Sevens contracts, which Clark missed out on.
However, with her legacy already cemented in the game, England head coach Simon Middleton paid tribute to her career both on and off the pitch. “Rocky Clark is a true legend of rugby,” he said. “To have remained at the top of her game for 15 years is a remarkable achievement.
“She gave as much off the pitch as on, and is recognised by her team mates as one of the great leaders within the squad. She’s been an absolute inspiration to us and embodies everything a Red Rose should be.
“I speak on behalf of everyone to say that it has been an honour and a privilege to work with Rocky over the years.”
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments