Women’s rugby star, Maggie Alphonsi, has become a patron of the Women’s Sport Trust to help in the charity’s quest to bring parity to women’s sport in the UK.

Alphonsi, who has three times been a Rugby World Cup finalist and won it in 2014, says she is honoured and excited to take on the role.

“I do passionately believe that everybody should have the opportunity, if they want it, to take on their own sporting challenges, have their own amazing experiences and learn the lessons that sport is so good at teaching us,” she said.

“Sport has given me so much and taught me so much that I am really passionate about helping to make sure that as many other people as possible get the opportunity to pursue their dreams.”

Alphonsi, who retired from rugby last year, is now turning her attention to the shot put for the Olympic Games in Rio. She will be using her experience as an elite sportswoman to help the charity raise the visibility of women’s sport.

Women’s Sport Trust co-founder, Tammy Parlour, says Alphonsi will help the charity in its quest to change the landscape of women’s sport. “We know that role models are absolutely vital in sending messages about who we can become and what we can achieve. Maggie is an outstanding role model both on and off the field and we are thrilled she is going to share her experience, insights and energy as a patron.”