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England Rugby captain Zoe Stratford awarded Honorary Doctorate from Coventry University
Zoe Stratford received an Honorary Doctorate from Coventry University
University news
Monday 24 November 2025
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Coventry University has awarded an Honorary Doctorate of Science to England Rugby captain Zoe Stratford, more well known as Red Roses Rugby World Cup-winning captain Zoe Aldcroft.
The award recognises her outstanding contribution to sport, her leadership on and off the pitch and her inspirational impact on young people in her home community of Scarborough.
While visiting to collect her award, Zoe also took time to meet Coventry University’s women’s rugby team.
It’s a huge honour. I dedicated so much time and energy to my sport, and to be recognised in this way means so much. I hope I can continue to inspire girls and young women to see what’s possible in rugby and in sport.
Zoe Stratford
Born and raised in Scarborough, Zoe took up rugby at age eight and was the only girl at her club. Her early potential led her to Hartpury College and later to Northumbria University. She then returned to Hartpury College to complete a degree in sport and exercise science while balancing the demands of elite rugby.
Zoe made her England debut in 2016, scoring the winning try against France. Since then she has earned 69 caps, competed in three Rugby World Cups and, this year, captained England to a home World Cup victory, cementing her place as one of the sport’s all-time greats. She has also led Gloucester-Hartpury to three consecutive Premiership titles and was named the 2021 World Rugby Women’s 15s Player of the Year.
Her influence also extends far beyond the pitch as her success has transformed rugby participation in her hometown, where girls’ teams have flourished and local schools have introduced the sport in response to her achievements.
There’s been so much going on and the momentum we’ve had has been absolutely fantastic. To be part of such a huge moment for women’s rugby is something I’ll never forget.
When I go back home now, there are hundreds of girls playing. It’s incredible to know I’ve played a part in that.
Zoe Stratford
Zoe Stratford’s story shows how education, opportunity and determination can transform lives. Her achievements on the world stage, and her influence on the next generation, make her an outstanding role model. We are proud to recognise her contribution to sport and society.
Jackie Mathers, Chief Academic Officer at CU Scarborough, part of Coventry University Group
It was an honour to meet Zoe today, she is an inspiration for many girls on our team and has made groundbreaking changes to Women’s Rugby over her career. Watching her lead the Red Roses to a World Cup victory was incredible, so getting to meet her meant a lot.
Charlie Jefferson, a third year Pharmacology student who plays for Coventry University’s women’s rugby team
