Zoe Aldcroft

Zoe Aldcroft is something of a rugby legend. In fact, she was named World Rugby Women's 15s Player of the Year in 2021. She currently plays as a lock for the England women's rugby union team and Gloucester-Hartpury Women. 

Born on 19 November 1996 in Scarborough, North Yorkshire, Aldcroft began playing rugby at the age of nine. She represented a variety of teams during her youth, including Malton Girls and West Park Leeds. She also represented Yorkshire at the U15s level. 

While at school, Aldcroft was selected for the England U18 Sevens side and won the first European championship. She went on to study sport and exercise sciences at Hartpury University, while also playing for Hartpury University R.F.C. Additionally, she was selected for the England U20s side and made eight appearances for the team.

Zoe Aldcroft's international career began with a bang. She made her debut in 2016, when she played the last four minutes of England’s match against France. She showcased her talent by scoring a try and securing the team’s 17-13 win. One year later, in 2017, Aldcroft joined the Gloucester-Hartpury squad. She was named as team captain during the 2018 Premier 15s series.

By 2020, Aldcroft had solidified her status as a talented player. She signed a full-time contract with the national team and she was named Rugby Players' Association Player of the Year.

From her World Rugby accolade to captaining the team on her 25th birthday, Aldcroft reached even greater heights in 2021. During this time, the team won the Women's Six Nations for the third year in a row. She delivered several exceptional performances at the tournament and was recognised as Player of the Match for England’s first-place victory over France. 

Next, Aldcroft was a regular fixture at the delayed 2021 Rugby World Cup. Two years later, she earned her 50th cap at the 2024 Six Nations.

With unique skills and a fantastic winning record, it seems the sky really is the limit for Zoe Aldcroft.