Overview

The Red Roses' trailblazing star tells her inspirational story of triumph over adversity and smashing down barriers in women's sport 'Lukewarm is no good.' As a youngster, Ellie Kildunne was told girls don't play rugby. But that's what she was good at, and she was determined to find a way. Growing up in Yorkshire, Ellie started playing rugby aged six with a boys' team, which she continued to do until she was 13, constantly having to prove herself as the only girl. Then, her mum found out about some local U15 trials for girls. She went along, made the team, and thus began the career of an England rugby great. But to achieve greatness in sport is not an easy journey. Ellie has faced prejudice. She has fought through career-threatening injury. While the hyperfocus superpower that is part of her ADHD has driven her to surpass the competition, it brings with it a difference in the way she processes information that has led to misunderstandings and conflict, at school, at college and in her professional life. Ellie's guiding philosophy is 'Lukewarm is no good'. Her passion for rugby was always white hot. The fire will never go out, and the setbacks have made her stronger. She's smashing through barriers, and spurs us all on to achieve our goals, whatever our path in life. On and off the field, Ellie is a game changer. 'An inspirational player who creates moments of outrageous brilliance from nowhere.' Sir Clive Woodward 'What Ellie and the Red Roses achieved on home soil last year was a privilege to watch. We may play different sports, but wearing our country's shirt is something that connects us all. Ellie sets incredible standards for herself and her team. The consistency behind her performances and the energy she brings lifts you off your seat. It's not just about winning games, it's about the example she sets and the belief she gives the next generation that we as women belong on the biggest stage.' Chloe Kelly 'The growth of women's rugby in England has been a huge positive for sport in this country. Ellie Kildunne and the Red Roses have done an incredible job of inspiring the nation, not just through their successes but with the way they play the game.' Ben Youngs

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9781529990140

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Ellie Kildunne is a leading light in women's rugby. Proudly born in West Yorkshire, she attended Hartpury College and marked her debut for England in the 15-a-side game at the age of 18 with a try against Canada. Her exceptional versatility led her to the England sevens team, where she was part of the side's 2020 Olympics qualification. She went on to represent Great Britain in sevens at the 2024 Games in Paris. In 15's rugby, Ellie has played a pivotal role in England's dominant Red Roses side - one which has won the last four Women's Six Nations, each with a Grand Slam. After helping the team to the 2022 World Cup final, she was named World Rugby Women's 15's player of the year in 2024 and, widely celebrated for her explosive pace and thrilling attacking game, became a standout star of the Red Roses' 2025 World Cup victory on home soil. At club level, Ellie has represented Gloucester-Hartpury, Wasps and Harlequins. She was runner-up in the 2025 BBC Sports Personality of the Year award and was awarded an MBE in the 2025 New Year Honours. She lives in Reading and this is her first book.

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