News - Ealing Trailfinders Rugby Club

TRAILFINDERS WOMEN SECURE NIAMH SWAILES

We are excited to announce the signing of Niamh Swailes.

Known for her versatility and explosiveness as a player, the 21-year-old arrives from Sale Sharks where she established herself as a consistent, standout performer.

A Gateshead native, Swailes made her senior debut for Sale Sharks against Bristol Bears and began her rugby journey as a flanker before transitioning into the front row, where her reputation grew as an exceptionally dynamic and versatile player.

Named the MVP of the England U20 Women’s Summer Series in 2024, Swailes blends athleticism and sharp game intelligence – qualities that have seen her rise rapidly through the ranks of the English game. An outstanding campaign in 2024-25 saw Swailes’ efforts recognised, securing a nomination for the PWR Breakthrough Player of the Season award.

Speaking on her signing, Swailes said:

“I’m buzzing to be joining the Club this season. The ambition and the environment are really what stood out to me, and I just can’t wait to be a part of Trailfinders. I’m really excited to see where the group can go.”

Barney Maddison, Head Coach, added:

“Niamh’s a proven PWR performer – a standout across the league – and one of Sale’s best players last season.

“She was England U20s hooker and was MVP of the Summer Series last year – she’s got a big future ahead of her. We’re absolutely delighted to bring her in.”

News

Abi Burton signs new contract

We are pleased to announce that Abi Burton has signed a new contract with Trailfinders Women.

The England forward has gone from strength-to-strength since joining Trailfinders Women in our inaugural year and has developed into a key member of the playing group.

Having previously represented Great Britain in rugby sevens at the 2020 and 2024 Summer Olympics, Burton’s explosive power, determination and work rate have made her a standout player.

After receiving a call up to the Red Roses squad for the tournament, she made a significant impact at this year’s Six Nations, demonstrated perfectly when she scored two tries in England’s 67-12 win against Wales. Burton has recently also been named in the Red Roses’ training squad for the Rugby World Cup taking place in England later this year.

On extending her time at the club, Burton said:

“I’m super excited to extend my contract with Trailfinders Women. I’ve been here from the start, I want to see the club do great things, and I’m going to stay here until that happens.

“It’s been an amazing journey, and I’m excited to continue working with this fantastic team. I’m looking forward to what the future holds.”

Burton will also reprise her role as Head Coach of Brunel Rugby women’s side, assisted by fellow Trailfinders Women stars Kate Zachary, Ella Amory, and Meg Jones.

On her role with Brunel, Burton added:

“My role at Brunel is massive for the development of the Club. We want to develop young players to go on and play in the Premiership.

“To have players there, like Kate [Zackary], like Ella [Amory], and Meg [Jones] this year, that play internationally, that are these incredible calibre of athlete… it lets the girls see that they can be it ahead of a first season in BUCS Super Rugby next year.”

Speaking on Burton’s extension, Barney Maddison, Trailfinders Women Head Coach, commented:

“Abi is one of the hardest-working players we have. Her explosive ability to break through defences, her determination and her high level of fitness make her a consistent threat on the field.

“We’re thrilled that she’s extending her time with us.”

News

Canadian International Claire Gallagher signed

We are thrilled to announce the signing of Canadian full-back Claire Gallagher ahead of the new season.

Gallagher joins from fellow Premiership Women’s Rugby side Leicester Tigers, where she featured alongside newly announced Trailfinders, Meg Jones and Francesca McGhie.

Since winning her first international cap in 2023 against New Zealand the Canadian playmaker has further honed her craft, developing her skills to become an ever-bright option for the all-action Maple Leafs.

A technically gifted player, Gallagher is comfortable with ball in hand and also possesses a strong kicking game. Her ability to read a defence and execute in high-pressure situations make her a valuable addition to the Trailfinders’ backline.

On signing for the club, Gallagher said:

“I first became interested in joining Trailfinders after having played against them the past two seasons and liking their playing style and freedom on the pitch. What reassured my decision was hearing from my Canadian teammates how awesome the team culture is and the buy-in from the group. I’m looking forward to playing my part.”

Head Coach, Barney Maddison, commented:

“Claire is an exciting addition to our squad. Her experience at the international level will be invaluable, and we’re looking forward to seeing her make an impact.”

News

Carys Cox named in Wales training squad

Carys Cox has been named in Wales’ extended training squad ahead of the Rugby World Cup.

Cox was named in an extended 45-player training squad by Wales head coach Sean Lynn in preparation for the coming Rugby World Cup later this summer. The squad will be cut down to 30 ahead of a summer visit to Australia to face the Wallaroos in a two Test series before the team return to the UK for their RWC campaign in August.

Wales start their campaign against Scotland at the Salford Community Stadium on Saturday 23rd August, with subsequent fixtures against Canada (30th August) and Fiji (6th September) rounding up their action in Pool B.

Wales extended training squad for the Women’s Rugby World Cup 2025 in England:

Forwards

Abbey Constable
Abbie Fleming
Alaw Pyrs
Alex Callender
Bethan Lewis
Bryonie King
Chiara Pearce
Carys Phillips
Donna Rose
Georgia Evans
Gwen Crabb
Gwenllian Pyrs
Gwennan Hopkins
Jenni Scoble
Jorja Aiona
Katherine Baverstock
Kate Williams
Kelsey Jones
Lucy Isaac
Maisie Davies
Molly Reardon
Natalia John
Rosie Carr
Sisilia Tuipulotu
Stella Orrin
Tilly Vucaj

Backs
Carys Cox
Catherine Richards
Courtney Keight
Hannah Bluck
Hannah Jones
Isla McMullen
Jasmine Joyce
Jenny Hesketh
Kayleigh Powell
Keira Bevan
Kerin Lake
Lisa Neumann
Lleucu George
Meg Davies
Nel Metcalfe
Robyn Wilkins
Savannah Picton-Powell
Seren Lockwood
Sian Jones

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Trailfinders’ Red Roses called up

Three of our Trailfinders Women have today been named in England’s training squad ahead of the Rugby World Cup.

Abi Burton, Abby Dow, and Megan Jones have each been called up by John Mitchell for the first Red Roses training camp of the summer.

Following a Grand Slam-winning 2025 Guinness Women’s Six Nations, England’s focus now switches to the Rugby World Cup in August. England get the tournament underway on Friday the 22nd August as they host USA at the Stadium of Light in Sunderland, before fixtures against Samoa and Australia follow on the 30th August and 6th September respectively.

Red Roses training squad for the Women’s Rugby World Cup 2025 in England:

Forwards

Zoe Aldcroft
Lark Atkin-Davies
Sarah Bern
Hannah Botterman
Georgia Brock
Abi Burton
May Campbell
Mackenzie Carson
Kelsey Clifford
Amy Cokayne
Maddie Feaunati
Rosie Galligan
Lizzie Hanlon
Lilli Ives Campion
Sadia Kabeya
Alex Matthews
Maud Muir
Cath O’Donnell
Marlie Packer
Simi Pam
Connie Powell
Morwenna Talling
Abbie Ward

Backs

Holly Aitchison
Jess Breach
Millie David*
Abby Dow
Zoe Harrison
Tatyana Heard
Natasha Hunt
Megan Jones
Ellie Kildunne
Claudia MacDonald
Lucy Packer
Sarah Parry*
Flo Robinson
Helena Rowland
Emily Scarratt
Jade Shekells
Emma Sing
Mia Venner
Ella Wyrwas

*Denotes Under-20s player

News

Trailfinders agree McGhie signing

We are thrilled to announce the signing of Francesca McGhie, one of Scotland’s most exciting young talents.

A 22-year-old from Edinburgh, McGhie is renowned for her blistering pace and sharp footwork. Comfortable anywhere across the back three, she brings a dynamic attacking threat to Trailfinders Women.

After securing the Tennent’s Premiership with Watsonians in the 2022-23 season, McGhie’s rapid rise saw her nominated for World Rugby’s Breakthrough Player of the Year in 2023. She then went on to join Leicester Tigers ahead of their inaugural campaign in Premiership Women’s Rugby, where she has continued her impressive ascension in the sport.

On the international stage, McGhie has already made a significant impact, earning 22 caps for Scotland since making her debut in the 2023 Six Nations against England at Kingston Park, scoring 10 tries along the way.

McGhie started every game for her national side in the 2025 Six Nations, scoring two tries in the tournament – including a last gasp effort in a 26-19 win over Ireland.

Speaking on her move, McGhie said:

“There’s a great ambition here, and there are people and coaches here that I think can add to my game – I feel this is a team I can really develop with. I’m looking forward to joining up with the group and I’m excited to see what we can do together.”

Barney Maddison, Head Coach, added:

“Francesca is a hugely exciting talent with incredible potential. She’s already proven herself at the international level, and her speed, agility, and attacking instincts will be a great asset for us. We’re delighted to have her on board.”

News

Lineup: Hartpury v Ealing Trailfinders

Ealing Trailfinders name their lineup to face Hartpury in Round 22 of the Championship at the 4ED Hartpury Stadium.

Ben Ward makes nine changes to the starting XV that lifted the trophy at Trailfinders Sports Club last week.

It’s all change in the front-row, with Elliot Chilvers and Kabous Bezuidenhout packing down either side of Scott Buckley at hooker.

Matas Jurevicius retains his spot in the engine room and debutant George Shaw partners him.

Josh Taylor will move from the bench to captain the team from blindside, Siya Ningiza starts at openside, and David Bridge is at number eight this week.

Michael Stronge and George Worboys start in the halfback positions.

Trailfinders Rugby Academy graduate Geordie Gwynn makes his debut at outside centre, Francis Moore is inside him.

Max Bodilly starts at full-back, in what will be his final game for the club. Michael Dykes and Angus Kernohan complete the back three.

Recent signing Jamie Carr is in line to make his debut from the bench.

Ealing Trailfinders lineup to face Hartpury:

Elliot Chilvers
Scott Buckley
Kabous Bezuidenhout
Matas Jurevicius
George Shaw
Josh Taylor (c)
Siya Ningiza
David Bridge
Michael Stronge
George Worboys
Michael Dykes
Francis Moore
Geordie Gwynn
Angus Kernohan
Max Bodilly
Matt Cornish
James Kenny
George Davis
Ehize Ehizode
Jamie Carr
Craig Hampson
Tobi Wilson
Dan Jones

News

TRAILFINDERS TRIO NAMED IN SCOTLAND WORLD CUP TRAINING SQUAD

Three of our Trailfinders Women have been named in Scotland’s extended training squad ahead of the Rugby World Cup.

Lisa Thomson, Caity Mattinson, and Chloe Rollie has each been called up by Scotland Head Coach Bryan Easson to be part of the 38-player training squad.

Scotland will now turn their attention to preparing for this autumn’s tournament, which begins with a match against Wales on Saturday 23th August. They’ll then go on to face Fiji the following Saturday, 30th August, before wrapping up the pool stage with a final fixture against Canada on Saturday, 6th September.

Scotland Women extended training squad for the Women’s Rugby World Cup 2025 in England (caps in brackets):

Forwards

Leah Bartlett – Leicester Tigers (43)
Gemma Bell – Gloucester Hartpury/Hartpury University (1)
Becky Boyd – Loughborough Lightning (3)
Sarah Bonar – Harlequins (47)
Elliann Clarke – Bristol Bears (20)
Hollie Cunningham – Bristol Bears (2)
Lisa Cockburn – Gloucester Hartpury (33)
Eva Donaldson – Leicester Tigers (15)
Evie Gallagher – Bristol Bears (35)
Adelle Ferrie – Edinburgh Rugby/Corstorphine Cougars (4)
Jade Konkel – Harlequins (71)
Rachel Malcolm – Unattached (56)
Elis Martin – Loughborough Lightning (20)
Rachel McLachlan – Montpellier (51)
Aila Ronald – Edinburgh Rugby/University of Edinburgh (uncapped)
Molly Poolman – Edinburgh Rugby/Watsonian FC (4)
Lana Skeldon – Bristol Bears (79)
Alex Stewart – Edinburgh Rugby/Corstorphine Cougars (11)
Emma Wassell – Unattached (67)
Molly Wright – Sale Sharks (23)
Anne Young – Loughborough Lightning (20)

Backs

Leia Brebner-Holden – Loughborough Lightning (9)
Beth Blacklock – Saracens (3)
Rhea Clarke – Edinburgh Rugby/University of Edinburgh (1)
Coreen Grant – Harlequins (15)
Rhona Lloyd – Unattached (57)
Caity Mattinson – Trailfinders Women (31)
Francesca McGhie – Leicester Tigers (22)
Helen Nelson – Loughborough Lightning (70)
Rachel Philipps – Sale Sharks (1)
Hannah Ramsay – Edinburgh Rugby/University of Edinburgh (Uncapped)
Chloe Rollie – Trailfinders Women (75)
Lucia Scott – Gloucester-Hartpury/Hartpury University (5)
Emma Orr – Bristol Bears (29)
Lisa Thomson – Trailfinders Women (69)
Hannah Walker – Edinburgh Rugby/University of Edinburgh (Uncapped)
Evie Wills – Leicester Tigers (4)
Meg Varley – Bristol Bears (Uncapped)

News

NEW CONTRACT FOR LISA THOMSON

We are thrilled to announce the re-signing of Scottish international Lisa Thomson, ahead of the 2025-26 season.

Last season marked her first full season in 15s after a successful career with GB7s, and she has proven a key player in the squad, excelling at both fly-half and centre.

Thomson brings a wealth of international experience, having represented Scotland at the 2021 Rugby World Cup, and serving as co-captain for the 2022 Commonwealth Games. Gold at the European Games in Kraków in 2023 was followed by a place in the British squad for the 2024 Paris Olympics. More recently, Thomson proved a key part of Scotland’s 2025 Six Nations squad with consistent performances throughout and a try scored against the Red Roses.

In addition to her impressive international resumé, her performances in 2024-25 for Trailfinders were outstanding, scoring five tries – including two vital tries in a thrilling 39-38 win over Bristol Bears in January.

Her leadership, skill, and versatility earned her a deserved Coaches’ Player of the Season award at the 24-25 End of Season Awards.

Speaking on her re-signing, Thomson said:

“I’m thrilled to be staying with Trailfinders Women. This team has been a fantastic place for me to develop, and I’m excited to continue contributing to our success on the field.”

Barney Maddison, Head Coach, added:

“Lisa’s leadership, experience, and ability to perform in critical moments have been invaluable this season. We’re excited to have her back and look forward to seeing her continue to grow as a player and leader next season.”