Athletic back-row Sara Moreira and promising scrum-half Izzy Carroll have extended their stay with Warriors Women, the duo strengthening Jo Yapp’s squad ahead of the new Premier 15s season.
Moreira, who played for the Portugal Under-19 national football team prior to picking up the oval shape ball at Cardiff Met in 2017, bolsters Warriors’ back-row options.
“I’m extremely grateful that the coaches have shown belief in me and re-signed me for the season ahead,” said the Lisbon-born 24-year-old.
“I’m continuously learning and growing as a player, so I can’t wait to see what the season holds.”
Graduating from Cardiff Met University last year with a Bsc (Hons) in Sports Coaching, Moreira joined Warriors in 2018 and is set to embark on her third campaign with the Sixways club.
Mike Hill, Academy Transition and Warriors Women Forward Coach said: “Sara impressed last season with her hunger to improve and having only played the game for a few years, she has made huge steps in her development.
“She was unlucky to pick up an injury last season, but she’ll no doubt be itching to get back onto the field this coming season.
“With the strength that we have in the back-row this year, it will be a great opportunity for her to continue that learning in a competitive environment.
“I’m looking forward to seeing her aggressive style of play continue in all aspects of her game.”
Carroll, who hails from Oxford, is another player hungry for success at Sixways, the 23-year-old having played on the wing for Saracens’ development team prior to pulling on the Warriors jersey. Transitioning to a scrum-half since making the switch to Jo Yapp’s set-up in December last year, Carroll is enthused at what lies ahead.
“The support I’ve received from Jo and the coaching staff has been immense,” said the former Lord Williams’s School pupil.
“I couldn’t be more excited to continue my development with Warriors.”
A keen horse rider growing up, Carroll took up rugby aged 19 and played one season with her local club Princes Risborough and for her county Oxfordshire, before moving to Saracens where she spent two seasons on the wing for the development side.
“Izzy is a natural athlete with a great focus,” said Warriors Women Lead Coach Sian Moore.
“She’s adapting and learning a new position and she’s progressing session by session. We’re excited to see her grow technically and tactically throughout the season.”