At Hove Rugby Club, we celebrate not only the game but the people who shape it—and few have had an impact as profound as Manjinder Nagra. A dedicated player, coach, and community leader, Manjinder has been a driving force behind the growth of girls' rugby at our club, while also blazing a trail as a proud Sikh woman in a sport where diversity is still catching up.

Over a decade ago, when women’s and girls' rugby was still fighting for space and recognition, Manjinder had a vision: to create a home for girls at Hove RFC where they could develop as players, teammates, and individuals. That vision became reality when she founded the Hove Girls' Section, and what began as a small, spirited group has grown into one of the most vibrant parts of our club.

Through her leadership, mentorship, and sheer determination, the girls' section has flourished. Week after week, young players turn up to train, play, and fall in love with rugby—all thanks to the pathway Manjinder carved for them. Her work hasn’t just grown numbers; it’s created a culture of confidence, inclusion, and camaraderie.

As a Sikh woman, Manjinder has also become a powerful role model both within and beyond the rugby community. She’s shown that the sport has space for everyone—no matter your background, faith, or gender—and that you can lead with both pride in your heritage and passion for your team. Her journey is an inspiration to players of all ages and backgrounds, proving that representation matters, and that with enough heart, you can change the game.

To read more about Manjinder’s remarkable story, featured recently by the BBC, click here:
BBC News – Manjinder Nagra: The first Sikh woman to play rugby for England

We are enormously proud of Manjinder and everything she has achieved. Her story is woven into the fabric of Hove Rugby Club, and her legacy continues every time a girl picks up a ball, makes a tackle, or scores her first try.