amber reed

Your uncle Andy played at lock for Scotland, so were you always into rugby?

I was always interested because my dad and brother played too, but I played football. Then I got into the girls sevens team at my school, Colston’s. I played cricket and hockey too, but when we won the National Schools Sevens at Rosslyn Park in 2007 rugby took over.

How did you make the transition from sevens to the 15-a-side game?

After Rosslyn Park I was invited into the England U18 talent development group and when I left school I joined Bristol Ladies in the Premiership. I played on the wing at first, then moved to centre.

Who was your mentor?

My first rugby coach at school, Ben Berry, because he made it so enjoyable. Now it’s Jo Yapp at Exeter University. With all her England caps she’s been where I want to get to.

You won three England caps in November, what’s your next aim?

I would love to play in the Six Nations and it would be awesome to play in the 2014 World Cup. Being involved in the series win against the Black Ferns (3-0) was unreal.

RW Verdict: Reed was a latecomer to the 15-a-side game, but this talented centre is progressing fast and is sure to win more caps.
This was published in the February 2013 issue of Rugby World. Click here to see what’s in the current edition.