St Mary’s University London celebrated four of its alumnae this week, as Jess Breach, Abi Burton, Rosie Galligan, and Ellie Kildunne were awarded Honorary Doctorates in Sport in recognition of their outstanding contributions to English rugby.
The awards ceremony, held on 5 November 2025, followed a dinner in honour of the inaugural Remembrance Trophy matches between St Mary’s and the Royal Artillery rugby teams — a fitting backdrop to honour these trailblazers of the women’s game.
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Jess Breach – England’s Lightning Wing ⚡
Known for her blistering pace and try-scoring prowess, Jess Breach made an immediate impact on the international stage, scoring six tries on her England debut in 2017. The Saracens winger has since established herself as one of the most lethal finishers in the women’s game, helping England lift the 2025 Women’s Rugby World Cup.
A St Mary’s alumna in Sports Communication & Marketing, Breach’s journey from Chichester RFC to the pinnacle of rugby underscores her commitment, talent, and infectious passion for the sport.
Abi Burton – Inspirational Comeback Queen 💪
Abi Burton’s story is one of resilience and determination. After representing Great Britain in Rugby Sevens at Tokyo 2020, Burton faced a life-threatening illness in 2022, being diagnosed with autoimmune encephalitis. Following months of recovery, she returned to elite rugby, earning her full England Union debut in 2025.
Her bravery both on and off the field makes Burton a true inspiration for the next generation of athletes.
Rosie Galligan – Engine Room Powerhouse 🔥
A lock with a never-say-die attitude, Rosie Galligan has battled setbacks including meningitis and a major leg injury, yet returned stronger to play a pivotal role in England’s pack. Known for her line-out prowess and relentless physicality, she continues to be a cornerstone of Saracens Women and the Red Roses.
Ellie Kildunne – The Dynamic Back ⚡
Versatile, elusive, and electric in attack, Ellie Kildunne has dazzled on the wing, at centre, and full-back. Since making her England debut in 2017, she has consistently lit up the field with her pace and skill, earning recognition as one of the top backs in the women’s game. Her contributions were vital to England’s World Cup success.
SIX NATIONS WAG’S
From stylish appearances in the stands to quiet support away from the cameras, we take a closer look at the stunning partners standing by two of rugby’s biggest names as Six Nations fever builds.
Wales: Louis Rees-Zammit – Drew Knotts
Speedster Louis Rees-Zammit may be electric on the wing, but it’s his off-field romance that’s catching eyes. He’s linked to Drew Knotts, a Florida-born fashion and lifestyle influencer with a strong athletic background, having competed in multiple sports before turning to social media.
Previously part of the US influencer scene, Drew reportedly moved from the United States to the UK to be with Rees-Zammit as he returned to rugby after his NFL venture — a clear show of commitment that’s turned heads among Welsh fans.
England: 💄 Beth Dolling – Model girlfriend of Marcus Smith steals the spotlight
Model and singer Beth Dolling, 25, is the glamorous other half of England fly-half Marcus Smith — and she’s every inch the fashion icon. Having worked with top brands like PrettyLittleThing, Beth often stuns her followers with chic snaps and behind-the-scenes glimpses into life with her rugby superstar boyfriend.
In one heartfelt post, she gushed: “Watching you do what you love makes me so proud.” The couple have been together since 2021 and are easily one of rugby’s most photogenic duos.
ENGLAND: 🌍 Atdhetare Hoxha – The incredible refugee who found love with George Ford
Atdhetare Hoxha, wife of England fly-half George Ford, has one of the most inspiring backstories in the rugby world. Having fled war-torn Kosovo as a child, Atdhetare has built a life filled with love, strength, and resilience.
The couple married in 2022 and are proud parents to daughter Alarnia, born March 2024 — plus two adorable French Bulldogs. Atdhetare once shared: “I came here as a refugee aged four during the Kosovan War. Everything we had was taken in a heartbeat.”
Her courage and success make her one of the most empowering England WAGs of all.
France: 💄 Antoine Dupont – Iris Mittenaere
Antoine Dupont is reportedly in a relationship with Iris Mittenaere, the former Miss France and Miss Universe winner, with the couple appearing together publicly and in media reports
CONTINUES ON PAGE TWO
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