Rebecca who has been deaf since birth has always been interested in sports and has never been deterred from achieving her dream. She is a talented rugby player and plays fullback and winger positions for the International England Deaf and the Cannock ladies, her local team. After attending a boarding school for the deaf, she gained confidence and became independent. Her commitment to her studies, work, sports, volunteering and being a mom of a 9-month-old little girl is quite praiseworthy. Today, she is a qualified Chef and Waitress and is currently pursuing college studies for Level Three Sports Message to be able to move into her dream job as Sports Physio and First Aider.

How and when did you start playing rugby for International England Deaf?R: Well, it was on Facebook one day, that they were looking for more deaf players. I'd ignored it once, then my best friend messaged me privately about England Deaf. So, I'd thought 'why not'? I'd messaged one of the Captains, Gina. I went down to their training in the summer, I couldn't train properly due I had an injury of AC Joint injury in my shoulder. Since then, I've never looked back for bout 3 years. Proud to be England and plays for them to represent our country.

What is your most memorable rugby match and why?R: To play at the Birmingham Moseley Rugby Club because that's when I played for England for the first time and my first game. To be honest, I didn't do too bad. And that day, we've won.

Who is your favorite rugby player?R: Oooo, that's a tricky one. Not going to lie, Jonny Wilkinson!

What challenges did you face during your school years? How did you face these challenges?R: I am not going into details. But one of the biggest challenges I had to deal with was I went to boarding school for Deaf. That was the hardest thing I have ever done. I had to learn that I wasn’t at home every day, I didn’t see any of my family except school holidays. I didn't do a lot of signing, I bought up being with hearing family. I'm the only one who's deaf, but with speech as I'm hard of hearing with hearing aids. I just had to face those challenges by myself and few friends supported me too.

What do you like to do in your free time?R: I spend time with my little girl whose is 9 months old and my partner. That's all matters! Oh, I love watching my partner playing rugby nearly every weekend for last 4 years. Because he has played for 18 years! He's getting old!

What do you like to do when you are with your family/friends?R: Going over to Wales that's where my parents live now, going up to Hull that's where I grew up and my family lives there. Friends, I like to meet up and have a great catch up! Nothing else!

Can you give tips/advice for those in our community who want to try out new sports?R: Don't be afraid of trying new things! Because you will regret it if you don't learn new sports. And... don't give up! Because you will never know what's coming to you! If you're stuck, don't be afraid of asking. Don't give up for who you are and never changes for who you are.

Any special message for our community?R: Women can do any sports, it's not just for men its also for women's. We're all equal.