Zoe Aldcroft

Zoe Aldcroft is one of the most respected figures in international women’s rugby and an inspiring leader both on and off the field. As captain of England’s Red Roses, she guided the team to victory at the 2025 Women’s Rugby World Cup, cementing her reputation as a world-class athlete and role model. Her poise under pressure, ability to unite those around her, and record of consistent excellence have made her a highly sought-after motivational speaker, particularly for audiences eager to learn from elite performers.

Zoe’s journey began with Scarborough RUFC, where her early passion for rugby was nurtured. She progressed through West Park Leeds before pursuing the sport more seriously at Hartpury College, a renowned environment for developing professional talent. Alongside her club rugby, she gained invaluable experience with Darlington Mowden Park and ultimately became a vital part of Gloucester-Hartpury. Making her England debut in 2016, Zoe quickly established herself as a reliable and commanding presence in the second row. Her leadership qualities were evident long before she was officially given the captaincy, with teammates and coaches recognising her calm authority and relentless work ethic.

Her career has since been defined by both individual accolades and team triumphs. In 2020, she was named England Women’s Player of the Year, before being crowned World Rugby Women’s 15s Player of the Year in 2021 after an exceptional Six Nations campaign. She represented England at the 2021 Rugby World Cup and went on to lead Gloucester-Hartpury to an unprecedented run of Premiership Women’s Rugby titles, securing three consecutive championships between 2023 and 2025. In the same year, Zoe was appointed Red Roses captain and led them to global glory, lifting the World Cup as a symbol of her team’s resilience and ambition.

Zoe is hired as a speaker not only for her extraordinary sporting achievements but also for the qualities that underpin them: leadership, resilience, humility, and the ability to inspire those around her. She brings the lessons of top-level rugby—teamwork, discipline, and perseverance—into practical insights that resonate across all walks of life. Whether addressing students, business leaders, or community groups, Zoe delivers an engaging and motivating message, making her an outstanding choice for any audience seeking inspiration.