The Commonwealth Games are coming to a close this weekend, but for an inspirational rugby star from the University of Gloucestershire, they have only just begun.
This morning, England’s Women’s team beat Fiji 17-5 in the first stage of the contest. Among the starting seven was University of Gloucestershire masters student, Heather Fisher.
The 33-year-old used to be part of Great Britain bobsleigh team and competed with at the junior championships and on the European circuit. But, after three years on the ice, she went back to her true passion: rugby.
Heather’s head turned to competing for England in 2009, and today she is at the Commonwealth Games, after taking part in two world cups, four World Series and the 2016 Olympics in Rio de Janeiro.
After studying sport and PE at the University of Wales Institute, Cardiff, she is now working towards an MA in Strength and Conditioning here in Gloucester.
After battling with anorexia as a young girl, and recently suffering from a fractured back, Heather’s story is truly inspirational.
Jonathan Hughes, senior lecturer and academic course leader for MSc Strength and Conditioning at the University, is inspired by Heather’s perseverance: “I’ve found Heathers dedication to her studies and her full-time commitment to training at an elite level a real inspiration. She has always maintained high standards of work and has managed her time well with the utmost support of the University, to enable her to study and compete for her country.
“Heather constantly questions her own practical experiences, with the scientific methods her course provides her with. I work with Heather individually to arrange tutorial support around her training and competitive commitments, this is important given the nature of sevens rugby and the travel she has to undertake to compete.”
The next match for the women will be against Wales tomorrow, Saturday 14 April.
