Maggie Alphonsi MBE

World Rugby Hall of Fame Inductee & 2014 World Cup Winner, Leading Sports Broadcaster, Bestselling Author & RFU Diversity & Inclusion Leader.

Maggie Alphonsi’s Biography:

Maggie Alphonsi MBE is widely regarded as one of the most influential and successful figures in the history of English women’s rugby. Nicknamed “Maggie the Machine” for her phenomenal work-rate and formidable tackling from the flank, her 11-year international career (2003–2014) saw her earn 74 caps and score 28 tries. She was the driving force behind England’s seven consecutive Six Nations titles (six of which were Grand Slams) and played a crucial role in securing the 2014 Women’s Rugby World Cup—England’s first in 20 years.

Born in Lewisham, South London, Alphonsi overcame early adversity, including being born with a club foot, to excel in a traditionally male-dominated sport. She was appointed a Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE) for services to rugby in 2012. Her sporting achievements were also recognised with the Sunday Times Sportswoman of the Year award in 2010 and the prestigious Pat Marshall Award (Rugby Union Writers’ Club Player of the Year), making her the first woman to win the prize in its 50-year history. In 2016, she was inducted into the World Rugby Hall of Fame.

Since retiring from playing, Alphonsi has successfully transitioned into a pioneering career in media, governance, and authorship. She made history in 2015 by becoming the first former female player to commentate on men’s international rugby for ITV Sport and is now a regular analyst for major broadcasters. As the first former England Women’s player elected to the RFU Council, she actively leads the Diversity & Inclusion Steering Group, shaping the future of the game. Her autobiography, ‘Winning the Fight’, further details her journey, having been shortlisted for the 2024 Autobiography of the Year.

Today, Maggie is a highly sought-after keynote speaker who transfers her expertise in elite sport directly to the corporate world. Organisations hire her for her powerful insights on High-Performance Teamwork, Resilience, and Inclusive Leadership. Drawing on her personal story of overcoming early challenges and thriving in a male-dominated industry, she equips audiences with actionable strategies for performing under pressure and driving excellence, change, and genuine diversity within their own teams.

Why Hire Maggie Alphonsi?

Maggie Alphonsi, MBE, offers unparalleled lessons on resilience and high-performance grounded in world-class sport. As a World Cup champion and World Rugby Hall of Famer, she equips teams with strategies for excelling under pressure. A pioneer in media and governance (RFU Diversity Leader), Maggie delivers powerful, actionable keynotes on Inclusive Leadership and overcoming adversity.

Maggie Alphonsi’s Career Highlights:

Below showcases Maggie Alphonsi’s inspirational career highlights throughout the world of Rugby:

• 2025 – Appointed Head of Legacy and Impact for the Women’s Rugby World Cup 2025 Initiative.
• 2024 – Autobiography, Winning the Fight, shortlisted for Sports Autobiography of the Year.
• 2023 – Published her highly acclaimed autobiography, Winning the Fight.
• 2016 – Inducted into the World Rugby Hall of Fame.
• 2016 – Elected as the first former England Women’s player to sit on the RFU Council.
• 2015 – Made history as the first former female player to commentate on men’s international rugby for ITV Sport.
• 2014 – Won the Women’s Rugby World Cup with England, marking the nation’s first title in 20 years.
• 2012 – Appointed Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE) for services to rugby.
• 2011 – Became the first woman to win the prestigious Pat Marshall Award in its 50-year history.
• 2010 – Named Sunday Times Sportswoman of the Year.
• 2006 – Became Instrumental in England’s success, winning seven consecutive Six Nations titles in a row.
• 2003 – Made her debut for the England Women’s National Team.