Scarborough’s Zoe Stratford, England rugby captain, awarded honorary doctorate by Coventry University

The award recognises her outstanding contribution to sport, her leadership on and off the pitch and her inspirational impact on young people in her home community of Scarborough.

While visiting to collect her award, Zoe also took time to meet Coventry University’s women’s rugby team.

Speaking about the award, Zoe said: “It’s a huge honour. I dedicated so much time and energy to my sport, and to be recognised in this way means so much.

“I hope I can continue to inspire girls and young women to see what’s possible in rugby and in sport.”

Born and raised in Scarborough, Zoe took up rugby at age eight and was the only girl at her club.

Her early potential led her to Hartpury College and later to Northumbria University.

She then returned to Hartpury College to complete a degree in sport and exercise science while balancing the demands of elite rugby.

Zoe made her England debut in 2016, scoring the winning try against France. Since then she has earned 69 caps, competed in three Rugby World Cups and, this year, captained England to a home World Cup victory, cementing her place as one of the sport’s all-time greats.

She has also led Gloucester-Hartpury to three consecutive Premiership titles and was named the 2021 World Rugby Women’s 15s Player of the Year.

Speaking about the World Cup win, she reflected on the scale of the achievement: “There’s been so much going on and the momentum we’ve had has been absolutely fantastic. To be part of such a huge moment for women’s rugby is something I’ll never forget.”

Stratford’s influence extends far beyond the pitch. Her success has transformed rugby participation in her hometown, where girls’ teams have flourished and local schools have introduced the sport in response to her achievements.

“When I go back now, there are hundreds of girls playing,” she said. “It’s incredible to know I’ve played a part in that.”

Jackie Mathers, Chief Academic Officer at CU Scarborough, part of Coventry University Group, praised Zoe for exemplifying resilience, humility and high performance.

Speaking at the ceremony, she said: “Zoe Stratford’s story shows how education, opportunity and determination can transform lives.

“Her achievements on the world stage, and her influence on the next generation, make her an outstanding role model. We are proud to recognise her contribution to sport and society.”

Offering advice to this year’s graduates, Zoe encouraged them to embrace opportunity with confidence: “Say yes to things, even if they scare you. You never know what doors they’ll open. Give everything you do positive energy and enjoy the journey.”

Charlie Jefferson, a third year Pharmacology student who plays for Coventry University’s women’s rugby team, said: “It was an honour to meet Zoe today, she is an inspiration for many girls on our team and has made groundbreaking changes to Women’s Rugby over her career. Watching her lead the Red Roses to a World Cup victory was incredible, so getting to meet her meant a lot.”