Bryony Cleall, a prominent prop for Saracens, has announced her decision to retire from rugby after the upcoming Premiership Women’s Rugby Cup final against her former club, Harlequins, at StoneX Stadium. At 33, Cleall reflects on a remarkable 27-year journey in the sport, filled with notable achievements and challenges.
Cleall’s career has been distinguished by significant milestones. She was part of the England national team that secured two Six Nations titles, showcasing her talent and hard work on an international level. Additionally, her tenure at Saracens includes two league titles, marking her as a vital player in the club’s successful history.
In a heartfelt statement on the Saracens’ website, Cleall expressed gratitude for her time in rugby. “After an incredible 27 years, with a fair few injuries along the way, the time has come to hang up the boots and step away from playing the game I have loved since I was six years old,” she shared. Her passion for the sport is evident, as she looks back on her experiences with fondness.
One of the highlights of her retirement announcement is the opportunity to conclude her career in a final match at StoneX Stadium, a venue synonymous with her club’s rich history. The chance to face Harlequins, a team where she previously played for two seasons, adds a poetic layer to her farewell. “To finish my career by running out at the StoneX one last time, in a final against Harlequins no less, could not have been scripted any better,” she remarked, emphasizing the sentimental value of the moment.
Cleall’s path has not been without obstacles. Her journey through rugby has included numerous injuries, a reality many players face in such a physically demanding sport. Despite these setbacks, her resilience has been commendable, allowing her to return stronger each time and continue making contributions to her teams.
Her transition from Saracens to Wasps in 2021 is a testament to her adaptability. After a five-year stint with Saracens, she embraced the challenge of joining a new team. However, her journey took her back to Harlequins in 2022, where she continued to develop her skills. In March of the following year, she returned to Saracens, where she quickly made her presence felt, aiding the team in securing the PWR Cup.
The Saracens roster has also seen considerable success in recent seasons, including an appearance in the league final last year, though they faced defeat against Gloucester-Hartpury at StoneX. Cleall’s contributions as a versatile prop have been integral to their performances, helping the club achieve remarkable feats during her time.
As she steps off the field, Cleall leaves behind a legacy that will inspire future generations of female athletes. Her journey underscores the importance of perseverance, passion, and commitment to the sport. It also highlights the progress women’s rugby has made, with increasing recognition and investment in the game.
With Cleall being named on the bench for the final match, fans and teammates alike have a chance to rally around her one last time. Her leadership and experience will undoubtedly serve as a guiding force for younger players, even in her final moments on the pitch.
As we reflect on Bryony Cleall’s impressive career, it becomes clear that her impact goes beyond just titles and accolades. Her dedication to the sport and the pathways she has paved for other female athletes serve as a reminder of how far women’s rugby has come and how much further it can go.
In conclusion, as Cleall prepares for her final match, it’s not just about the end of a career but the celebration of a remarkable journey. Her story is one of triumph, resilience, and passion for rugby — values that will continue to resonate in the sport long after she hangs up her boots. The upcoming final at StoneX Stadium promises to be an emotional culmination of her career, leaving an indelible mark not just on her teammates and fans, but on the women’s rugby landscape as a whole. The sport has gained a trailblazer in Bryony Cleall, and her legacy will inspire others to follow in her footsteps.
As the rugby community rallies behind Cleall in her final match, fans are encouraged to celebrate her contributions, not only to Saracens and the national team but also to the growing visibility of women’s rugby. The support shown will be a testament to the camaraderie and respect that exists within the sport, reminding everyone of the collective aim to elevate women’s rugby to new heights. With a match filled with memories and emotion, Bryony Cleall’s retirement marks the end of an era — but also the beginning of new possibilities for both her and the game she has loved so dearly.
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