Gloucester-Hartpury comfortably sit at the top of the table after a whopping victory against Saracens but still remain focused on inspiring the next generation.
After having a tough start to her rugby career at young age, the Irish flanker has been a big advocate for inspiring the next generation at Gloucester-Hartpury.
The Hartpury flanker says: “It doesn’t matter whether you’ve got a Gloucester or Saracens top on, the younger generations still aspire to be you as a player and it is great to see.”
Jones admits that she still can’t quite get over the progression and support that the Gloucester-side have already made this season in the Allianz Premier 15s league after thrashing the reigning champions.
She admits that “the Saracens side are an exciting game to watch but an even more exiting team to win against.”
Hartpury’s head coach Sean Lynn’s jaw dropping signings this season have paid off once again as the side remain undefeated.
Last season the Cherry and Whites were unable to beat the Sarries but because of their experienced forwards pack and quick pace from the back line, the tables have turned.
She says: “It’s unbelievable. It’s always something that we’ve worked towards and hopefully we can continue that reign for the rest of the season.”
Jones notes the importance that, “regardless of what team you’re supporting, it is important for the younger generations to have role models and inspirations”.
After having to battle against her secondary school for a women’s rugby team, the flanker still can’t believe she now finds herself taking photographs with fans, signing her autograph and being included in BeReals.
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“Growing up I didn’t have an interaction with role models so it’s really special for me to be one of those role models for girls coming up in the ranks.”
Jones acknowledges the impact that the increased television and social media coverage has had for the women’s rugby community.
As more youngsters and fans have access to watch women rugby players remotely through the BBC and Premier 15s streaming service, there have never been so many role models that are female rugby players.
Jones hopes that there will be more rugby community days for girls at the Alpas Arena this season after an outstanding attendance rate.
“We’ve had a couple of community days for the girls before our games at home and there have been two hundred girls from around Gloucester turn up… they’re just so ecstatic. It’s really wonderful to see.”
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Next, Jones hopes to earn her shirt once again in the competitive squad against DMP Sharks at Alpas Arena on December 17.
