England’s Abbie Ward on Returning to Rugby After Giving Birth

Abbie Ward, the England lock, has opened up about the challenges she faced returning to international rugby less than a year after giving birth to her daughter Hallie. Ward, 31, made her first Test appearance since the 2022 World Cup final in England’s opening win over Italy in the women’s Six Nations.

In a candid interview, Ward revealed that she felt judged for continuing to play and being away from her daughter during the Six Nations camp. She acknowledged the pressure and scrutiny that comes with being a professional athlete and a mother, but emphasized the importance of doing what is right for oneself.

Ward became the first contracted England woman to have a baby since the Red Roses turned professional in 2019. She highlighted the progress made by the Rugby Football Union in updating its maternity policy, which now includes 26 weeks of fully-paid maternity leave and support for children to travel to games with their mothers.

Despite feeling a tinge of guilt for being the first player to benefit from the improved support, Ward remains focused on her game and has not let motherhood change her approach on the field. She emphasized that becoming a mother has added to her game and her personal growth, rather than taking away from it.

As England prepares to face Scotland in the Women’s Six Nations at Hive Stadium in Edinburgh, Ward’s story serves as a powerful reminder of the challenges and triumphs faced by women in sports, both on and off the field. Her resilience and determination are an inspiration to athletes everywhere.