Hannah Botterman: England’s Fearless Front-Row Trailblazer Leading a New Era of Women’s Rugby
In the rapidly evolving landscape of women’s rugby, Hannah Botterman stands out as a force of power, passion and precision. Known for her uncompromising style of play and fierce loyalty to her teams, Botterman has grown from a precocious talent in Hertfordshire to a cornerstone of England’s national squad. Her journey reflects more than just athletic prowess—it is the story of a woman defying odds, breaking stereotypes, and redefining what it means to dominate in the scrum.
Early Life and Family Influence
Born on 8 June 1999 in the town of Stevenage, Hannah Botterman grew up in a household steeped in rugby tradition. Her uncle, Gregg Botterman, was a hooker for Saracens and England, and her aunt, Jane Everett, also donned the England shirt. It’s hardly surprising, then, that rugby would become a central part of Hannah’s life from an early age.
Botterman began playing rugby at just four years old at Datchworth RFC, a local club where her love for the game was first sparked. As she progressed, she moved to Welwyn RFC, where her natural flair for the game became evident. She attended Monk’s Walk School and later Hartpury College, an institution renowned for producing elite rugby talent. From her earliest days, Botterman was never just another player—she was a standout, earmarked for greatness.
Rising Through the Ranks: Club Career
Hannah Botterman’s professional journey began with Saracens Women, one of the most dominant sides in English rugby. Signing with the club at 18, she wasted no time in making her mark. Her scrummaging technique, honed from years of grassroots rugby and relentless training, became her signature strength.
In the 2018 Premier 15s final, Botterman scored a crucial try that helped Saracens to a championship victory. Her performance didn’t just clinch silverware—it announced her as a player of national importance. Her impact continued in subsequent seasons, helping Saracens to lift multiple Premier 15s titles.
In 2023, Botterman made a bold move by signing with Bristol Bears Women. The transfer was seen as a strategic step in her career, not just professionally but also personally. At Bristol, she reunited with her partner, Holly Aitchison, who also plays for England. Together, they became one of the most exciting partnerships in club rugby.
International Stardom: Wearing the Red Rose
Hannah Botterman’s England debut came in November 2017 against Canada, at just 18 years old. Coming off the bench, she made an immediate impact, scoring a try and showing maturity beyond her years. It was clear to fans and coaches alike that England had found a prop with both brute strength and tactical intelligence.
Since that debut, Botterman has become an integral part of the England Women’s Rugby setup. She has played in multiple Six Nations campaigns, helping England secure Grand Slam titles in 2019, 2020, 2021, 2022, 2023 and 2024. Her dominance in the set piece, combined with her ability to break defensive lines, makes her a valuable asset in any match situation.
By October 2024, Botterman reached a significant milestone by earning her 50th England cap during the WXV 1 tournament in New Zealand. Her influence was noted not just in the statistics but in the leadership and resilience she displayed on the field.
Playing Style and Athletic Profile
At 1.58 metres tall and weighing 103 kilograms, Botterman may not be the tallest player on the pitch, but she is undoubtedly one of the strongest. Her low centre of gravity and explosive leg drive make her a nightmare for opposition scrums. What sets her apart, however, is not just physicality but her agility and awareness.
Botterman is known for her work rate off the ball. She regularly makes line breaks, supports attacking moves, and executes crucial tackles with precision. Her scrummaging skills are top-tier, but she is also adept at carrying the ball in open play, often gaining valuable metres in high-pressure situations.
Teammates and coaches have often described her as the “heartbeat” of the team—a player who leads by example and brings undeniable energy to the dressing room.
Leadership and Personality
Beyond the physical attributes and technical skill lies a person of great character. Botterman is known for her humour, confidence and authenticity. She brings a positive, no-nonsense attitude to the squad, often lifting spirits with her infectious energy.
Her leadership style is rooted in action. She leads from the front, demands the best from those around her, and isn’t afraid to speak up when standards slip. At a time when women’s rugby is becoming more visible and professionalised, Botterman’s voice carries weight both on and off the field.
A Champion for Women’s Rugby
As the profile of women’s rugby continues to grow, so too does Hannah Botterman’s role as a public figure and advocate. She has been vocal about the importance of equality in sport and has used her platform to inspire young girls to pursue rugby with confidence.
Botterman has experienced the sport before and after the rise of professionalism in the women’s game. She knows what it means to juggle jobs while training at elite levels—having previously worked as a waitress and a decorator. That background makes her success even more inspiring and positions her as a relatable role model for aspiring athletes.
Looking Ahead: The 2025 Women’s Rugby World Cup
England will host the 2025 Women’s Rugby World Cup, and Hannah Botterman is expected to play a pivotal role. With a blend of veterans and emerging talents, England enters the tournament as one of the favourites. Botterman’s experience, combined with her relentless playing style, makes her a key figure in England’s World Cup ambitions.
The home advantage and the growing support for women’s sport in the UK provide the perfect backdrop for Botterman to showcase her abilities on the world stage once again. Should England triumph, there is little doubt that her contributions will be central to their success.
Personal Life and Interests
Off the pitch, Hannah Botterman lives a life marked by humility and humour. Her relationship with Holly Aitchison is well-known among rugby fans, and together they represent the inclusive spirit of the sport. In her downtime, Botterman enjoys crocheting—a hobby that shows the softer, more relaxed side of a player known for toughness on the field.
She also takes time to mentor younger players and engage in community rugby initiatives, often attending school events and grassroots clubs to speak about her journey. Her presence makes the game more accessible and more relatable to the next generation of players.
Legacy and Long-Term Impact
Still only in her mid-twenties, Hannah Botterman’s rugby story is far from over. However, her legacy is already taking shape. She is part of a generation of athletes who are changing the narrative around women’s sport in the UK. Her rise from local club to international star proves that with determination, talent and the right support, anything is possible.
Botterman is not only a superb player but also an ambassador for the sport. Her story is helping to draw attention to the women’s game and encouraging governing bodies to invest in the future of female athletes. In doing so, she is not just scrummaging for metres—she’s moving the game forward.
Conclusion
Hannah Botterman is a name that resonates across the rugby world for all the right reasons. Her blend of raw talent, technical excellence, and human charm make her one of England’s most compelling rugby figures. Whether she’s scoring tries in the Premier 15s, anchoring scrums in a Six Nations decider, or inspiring future stars from the grassroots, her impact is both immediate and enduring.
As the countdown to the 2025 Women’s Rugby World Cup continues, all eyes will be on Botterman. Not just to see how she performs, but to witness how one woman can lead a movement—one tackle, one scrum, one victory at a time.
