Name: Tamara Taylor

Year of Birth: 1981

Height: 180cm

Weight: 83kg

Sport: Rugby Union

Team: Darlington Mowden Park Sharks

Represented: England

 

About You:

I’m passionate about sport, especially rugby. I work as a community coach for the RFU which means when I’m not training and playing rugby, I am teaching other people to do it. I am a southerner by birth, but have been happily living in the north east for the last 10 years.

Tell us about the sport you compete in?

Rugby union; it’s the only sport I know where you combine so many different elements; speed, power, tactical awareness, strength, endurance… You are never the finished article as there are so many areas to keep working on, which means training is always varied so you never get bored. There is also a place for everyone, whether you are small, tall, big, fast, slow, or strong- there is a position with your name on it where you can excel.

If you want to run with the ball, you can. If someone has the ball and you want it

You can go and get it. If someone is running and you want to stop them, you can! What more could you want from a sport?!

How did you become involved in it?

My brother played at school and club and I spent years watching him from the sidelines. It always looked like so much fun, so when a women’s team started up at my brother’s club; Henley, I joined! And I haven’t stopped since.

What does an average training week consist of?

We are currently in a fitness block of training so in 7 days I have:

3 weights sessions – two lower, one upper.

2 speed sessions

1 club training session

1 club game

2 conditioning sessions – one running, one bike based.

I also have to go to work in between!

How does the CherryActive product range help you during training and competition?

I have CherryActive after high intensity training sessions, and also after my club games. I feel less stiff and better recovered if I drink CherryActive rather than anything else.

Highlight of career?

Winning  the World cup in 2014 after losing in the final in 2006 and 2010.

Who are your hero’s?

When I first got into the England squads, I always looked up to an England player called Claire Frost.

Right now, I think Keiran Reed is a fantastic player for New Zealand. Jo Pavey is a fantastic role model for female athletes, and I really like her attitude to life.

What are your future goals?

I’d like to regain the 6 Nations trophy in 2015. The next world cup is in 2017, it would be amazing to play again, and win again!

How do you relax away from your sport?

It’s hard to get away from rugby when it is my job and my hobby, but I like to watch films, or socialise with friends. I like making things arts and crafts when I have the time!

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