Rugby legend surprises club stalwart
ENGLAND’S most-capped rugby union international Rochelle Clark labelled Lutterworth stalwart Nicola Crick “a credit to the game” during a surprise event.
Nicola, best known as ‘Birdy’, saw her 20 years in women’s rugby celebrated at the club she has served for all-but-two of those years.
Special guest at the Ashby Lane ground was 122-times capped international Rochelle ‘Rocky’ Clark as people from throughout Nicola’s career united to celebrate her achievements in the sport.
“It was a pleasure to come down and meet the Lutterworth women and their special captain ‘Birdy’, ” said Rochelle.
“She’s a true club person and an inspiration to many. I could see the huge impact she’s had on many people’s lives and she’s a credit to the game.
“Lutterworth welcomed me with open arms and I was very privileged to be part of such a special occasion.”
Nicola was duped into believing she was attending a 10-a-side festival but instead was swiftly changed into a Batman costume upon arrival at the gates of Lutterworth RFC and running onsite alongside vice captain Margaret Gallahan – who of course was dressed as Robin.
Video messages from former teammates from around the world were screened before games of tag rugby and touch were held.
Reflecting the event, held earlier this month, Nicola praised her wonderful teammates past and present.
She said: “I seriously think what the guys did has changed part of me. I’m still speechless.
“How can one average person be so lucky to be surrounded by so many wonderful people and my husband Steve, who really is my soul mate?”
Having started her rugby playing days as a 16-year-old at Westleigh, Nicola went on to star in the first-ever Leicestershire women’s side in 1999 and also captained her county in 2015.
The 2016/17 campaign has been a remarkable one for Lutterworth Ladies, finishing second in Midlands One just three points behind winners Old Leamingtonians.
The previous season, Lutterworth finished second bottom.
Lutterworth Ladies head coach Adam Lawrence believes much of the club’s success could be attributed to ‘Birdy’.
He said: “Nicola is a fantastic player and an exceptional leader on and off the pitch.
“She has been with Lutterworth since the ladies team started and has persevered through the ups and downs.
“Even after 20 years of playing rugby she is always willing to learn and try new things at training and on game days.
“She is constantly striving to improve whether that’s through developing her understanding of the game or constantly working on her general fitness.
“As captain over the past three years she has been an inspiration and a large part of the team’s recent success can be attributed to her.”
Lutterworth’s progression as a force in women’s rugby came from humble beginnings.
Nicola said: “Lutterworth didn’t have a ladies section when some of us moved to the club.
“I’m proud to say we now have a strong ladies section along with girls and juniors and minis.
“My playing career continues as the ladies captain and we have a strong close team with the younger generation coming through.
“I also help coach now and it’s a pleasure to be able to pass on the experiences and knowledge I have built over the years, watching my sons play in our club colours melts my heart.
“Rugby changed my life, it defined me, gave me discipline and purpose.
“It has given me unforgettable memories and friendship.
“It’s taught me that it’s ok to be me and so many life skills that have transferred into my personal and professional life.
“The smell of deep heat, the vibe of a happy team and the air you breath on game day is pretty magical.
“For anyone wanting to try don’t hold back.
“It’s never to late and believe me it’s worth it.”