Ellie Kildunne, one of the top players in women’s rugby, has set her sights on being recognized as the best in the world. With a stellar year that included England’s perfect record, a stint at the Olympics with Great Britain, and impressive performances with Harlequins, she is in the running for World Rugby’s 15s Player of the Year award. This comes after a busy schedule, which also saw her lead her Harlequins side into a London derby against Saracens.
Kildunne’s versatile career has included a deep connection to rugby league, having played at the junior level with her local club, Keighley Albion. The lure of a return to rugby league is something she hasn’t dismissed, especially with growing professional opportunities across different rugby formats. She has expressed interest in playing in Australia’s National Rugby League Women’s Premiership, though she remains focused on her current priorities with England and Harlequins. The prospect of a Lions tour in 2028 and the upcoming World Cup keeps her grounded in the union game, but she remains open to cross-code experiences in the future.
The rise of women’s professional rugby is undeniable. As investments pour in, the level of competition has skyrocketed. In the Premiership, half the players are now full-time professionals, which has raised the stakes and elevated the quality of play. The increased visibility and resources have pushed teams like Canada to challenge England in tight matches, and Kildunne has embraced the fact that the competition is closing in, especially with the next World Cup in sight.
While Kildunne’s focus remains on the current season with Harlequins and the Red Roses, the looming World Cup in England adds excitement to the horizon. She stays grounded by focusing on each game as it comes, maintaining a professional attitude whether playing for club or country. The culture at Harlequins, where both full-time and part-time players train together, offers a dynamic environment. This hybrid model allows the part-timers to balance work or study with high-performance rugby, which enhances the overall team standards.
Technology is also playing a pivotal role in Kildunne’s preparation. Harlequins and England have utilized the Sage smart ball for data analysis, which gives players insights into opponents’ weaknesses and helps fine-tune their own game. For Kildunne, this includes adjusting her kicking techniques, whether it’s a spiral or grubber kick, based on detailed heatmaps and target areas. However, she’s aware that such data can also be used by opponents to strategize against her.
Off the pitch, Kildunne has cultivated a unique persona that extends beyond rugby. She brings style, individuality, and a strong sense of independence to her role, helping her stand out in the growing world of women’s sports. She acknowledges that women in rugby are increasingly being seen not just as athletes but as multifaceted individuals with diverse interests and personalities. This has allowed players like Kildunne to attract attention from sponsors and social media, distinguishing them from the male counterparts who are often seen solely as rugby players.
The women’s rugby community has embraced this shift, encouraging players to express their individuality while maintaining the team’s winning mentality. For Kildunne, it’s about showing that success in rugby isn’t limited to just performance on the field; it’s about being authentic and carving out a space for women in sports where they can truly shine, both in the game and beyond.
