Women’s rugby star heads to the States to grow professional game

A university rugby star is returning to the United States to launch her professional career as the women’s game continues its rapid rise.

Mikey Williams, 30, has flown to Chicago after completing her Modern languages and Linguistics degree at the University of Essex and is determined to help grow rugby in America.

The versatile forward, who plays across the pack, is joining Chicago Tempest in the Women’s Elite Rugby league, which has attracted fresh attention following investment from GRAMMY Award-winning artist Meghan Trainor.

Mikey believes the sport is at a turning point in the US, with growing interest also being driven by the popularity of international star Ilona Maher.

She previously played for Twin City Geminis in the inaugural Women’s Elite Rugby competition and believes the women’s game is set to explode in popularity.

The American, who served in the US Navy, said: “It’s exciting to see America really trying to step up with this professional women’s league.

“It will take time to catch up with the Premiership Women’s Rugby in the UK in terms of experience and investment, but it’s exciting to be part of that journey.

“They are trying to create a similar pathway to the men’s game, but we are building something in our own right and standing on our own two feet.”

Mikey finished the BUCS season with the University’s Blades team while also playing for Bury St Edmunds Rugby Club before making the move overseas.

'Really appreciate Essex's sport programme'

She said the University’s Performance Sport programme played a major role in preparing her for the next step.

“They have really helped me with strength and conditioning, keeping me in good shape and ready to perform at a high level,” she said.

“I really appreciate everyone in the sport programme and all the support they have given me while I’ve been studying here.

“My degree has been brilliant too. It was really interesting, helped me keep up with my French, and languages are another big passion of mine.

“Rugby isn’t forever, so it’s important to have something else to pursue. I love languages and it’s nice to have that for the future.”

And it is not just her own journey at Essex that will stay with her.

She added: “Getting to see the girls fall in love with rugby was so inspiring because so many of them had never picked up a ball before.

“Seeing them fight for their teammates and gain confidence through sport is what rugby is all about.

“Watching them grow as players and as people was amazing.”