Congratulations to Gracie Hawkins from our under 18's girls on her selection for the Harlequins centre of excellence ahead of the 2022/23 season. Last season she represented Hampshire and she's currently study for her A levels at Hartpury College in Gloucester and embracing their rugby academy programme. Gracie travels home most weekends to play with her teammates at Ellingham & Ringwood . She's a flexible forward capable of performing in all positions in the front row, but flourishes at flanker. Her work rate is exceptional, she's quick to contest possession at the break down and frequently wins turnovers.

The centres of excellence are the second stage in England’s women’s performance pathway, sitting above county level and feeding into the England Under 18s set up. The programme provides players aged 15 to 18 with a high standard training environment to develop all components of their rugby performance.

Gracie is pictured with former Ellingham and Ringwood and current Wasps and England player Bryony Cleall.