Warriors Women would like to thank Brooke Bradley, Sarah Nicholas and Zoe Heeley for their services to the club as they leave Sixways to focus their attention on new challenges.
The trio, who racked up more than 70 Allianz Premier 15s appearances between them, became very popular members of the Warriors squad, culminating in the team finishing the 2020/21 season strongly.
“We are sad to see Brooke, Sarah and Zoe leave us and we will miss them all,” said Warriors Women Director of Rugby Jo Yapp.
“Brooke has been a key member of the Warriors squad and has supported the club both on and off the field. We wish Brooke every success as she embarks on her training to become a physiotherapist.
“Sarah worked tirelessly throughout last season, trying to balance her new role in the police with Premier 15s rugby. She always brings great energy to the squad and we wish her every success in her career.
“Zoe has been a really committed member of the squad and she has worked really hard during her time at Warriors to develop as a player. We wish her well in her relocation.”
England Under-20 capped Bradley joined the club in 2018 and went on to make 33 appearances, featuring in all of Warriors’ Premier 15s victories last season. The tenacious scrum-half scored two tries last term, including a crucial second half score at home to Sale Sharks as Warriors came from behind to triumph 31-21.
“I’ve really enjoyed my time with Worcester Warriors, and I can’t wait to support the girls as they continue to grow and develop as a squad,” said Bradley.
“I feel lucky to have worked with an incredible group of girls and I take away some fantastic memories.”
Meanwhile, Nicholas leaves the club in order to focus on her work commitments, having racked up 24 appearances for the blue and golds since making the switch to Sixways in the autumn of 2019.
The former Gloucester-Hartpury fly-half has also represented England Under-20s and previously played football for Aston Villa Ladies Under-14s and Under-16s.
“I’ve had the best time at Worcester, and I’ve thoroughly enjoyed my last couple of seasons here,” said Nicholas, who kept her cool to kick the winning penalty at Bristol in dramatic fashion back in December.
“I just want to say a massive thank you to every single person at the club – players, coaches and staff. I’ve learnt so much off every single person and I can’t wait to be your number one fan next season.”
Lightning-quick Heeley pulled on the Warriors jersey 14 times and this season she ran in three tries, the pick of those coming on the opening weekend of the campaign at Saracens as she took Taz Bricknell’s bullet pass to squeeze in at the corner.
Heeley, who only started playing rugby for Exeter University in 2016, added: “I’m grateful for the opportunities that I’ve been given at Worcester and I’m so excited to support the girls next season, and watch the club grow.”
A full list of those players retained ahead of the 2021/22 season will be released in due course as well as news on recruitment.