Stacey eyes up a different Rugby World Cup

But it’s rugby league that’s presenting one Chichester star with a slice of fame.

Stacey White is making the rugby league world sit up and take notice after breaking into the England squad - and she is dreaming of a spot in the team for the 2017 Rugby League World Cup.

White has been in Australia for the past few months developing her game by playing in the Australian Premiership and training with international players.

She takes up the story. “I got a call-up and won my first cap for England in a Test series in France this June,” she said.

“I am potentially in the running for the next World Cup in 2017. I have signed for Bradford for the remainder of the season. I also play rugby union for Saracens. I am looking for a bit of sponsorship to help me achieve this goal.”

White grew up in Eastergate and attended St Phillip Howard School. Her mum and dad are still in Chichester. White teaches at The Angmering School, where she actively encourages girls to participate in rugby.

She said: “I was always a strong games player. I went on to complete my secondary teaching degree in PE at Chichester University, where I discovered rugby union.

“I’m from a union background and most of my playing history is focused on that, but after trying out rugby league with Southampton Spitfires and getting help from the lead coach Glenn Tyreman, I eventually made it to the England squad.

“I was named in the 2014-15 national women’s squad in October. After attending England camps and having discussions with my headteacher, David Brixey, and the England coach, I took the decision to go on a sabbatical to Australia and play elite level rugby league for six months from January.

“Ths enabled me to focus and develop my rugby league performance to help with my England progress. I played for Souths in the Australian Premiership. This team consisted of several Australian international players.

“The experience was invaluable and I built strong relationships on and off the pitch with these players – who I may have to play against in the forthcoming 2017 World Cup, which is in Australia.

“I also played sevens for the elite invitational team Tribe while in Australia. I was invited in May to play for England against France in a two-Test series. The series was a week long and I gained my first cap, which was a huge honour. Since then I have signed for Bradford Thunderbirds in the English Rugby League Premiership with the finals in sight.

“My ambition is to retain my place in the squad and make the 2017 Rugby League World Cup in Australia. A number of Test matches are planned between now and then.”

White thanked Westgate Leisure in Chichester for assisting her with gym membership. She is actively seeking sponsorship to help her achieve her aims – i you can help please email [email protected]

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