Zoe Aldcroft

Zoe Aldcroft is one of the most respected leaders in women’s rugby, recognised worldwide for her calm authority, fierce determination, and ability to inspire those around her. In 2025, she made history by captaining the England Red Roses to victory in the Women’s Rugby World Cup, a triumph that cemented her status as one of the game’s most influential figures. With a career defined by resilience, excellence, and a deep commitment to her sport, she is widely sought after as a speaker who can motivate audiences with lessons in leadership, perseverance, and teamwork drawn from the highest level of international competition.

Zoe’s journey in rugby began at the grassroots level with Scarborough RUFC, where her passion for the game quickly flourished. Determined to pursue the sport professionally, she went on to play at West Park Leeds before enrolling at Hartpury College to dedicate herself fully to rugby. Her early club career included valuable experience with Darlington Mowden Park before she became a central figure at Gloucester-Hartpury, where her skill, work ethic, and natural leadership qualities marked her out as one to watch. Making her England debut in 2016, she steadily built a reputation as a commanding second row, earning selection for her first World Cup squad the following year.

The years that followed brought a string of achievements that showcased her consistency and brilliance on the pitch. In 2020, she was recognised as England Women’s Player of the Year, and the following year she reached the pinnacle of individual recognition when she was named World Rugby Women’s 15s Player of the Year. She played a vital role in England’s campaign at the delayed 2021 World Cup, while simultaneously guiding Gloucester-Hartpury to three consecutive Premiership Women’s Rugby titles between 2023 and 2025. Her appointment as England captain in 2025 proved a natural progression, and she led by example in steering her team to the ultimate prize – the World Cup trophy. Zoe has recently been appointed OBE in the 2026 New Year Honours List, recognised for her Services to Rugby Union Football.

Audiences connect with Zoe not only for her sporting achievements, but for the values that underpin them: discipline, humility, and the ability to bring people together towards a shared goal. She speaks with authenticity about the challenges and rewards of leadership, drawing on experiences both in victory and in moments of pressure. Whether discussing teamwork, resilience, or the pursuit of excellence, Zoe inspires others to lead with purpose and confidence, making her an outstanding choice for any event seeking a speaker who embodies leadership at its very best.