Brighton student drafted for South Africa tour with England Deaf Rugby Union

Samm, who is studying for a degree in Biological Sciences at the university’s Moulsecoomb campus, was selected as part of the 27-women squad to represent the Red Rose on tour in South Africa this August.

Alongside her studies, Samm is a key member of the University of Brighton Panthers women’s rugby team and works as a Rugby Development Intern at the university’s Sport Brighton where she supports the training of other players.

Samm also plays in the Rugby Women’s Championship for Surrey-based Richmond Rugby Club and was called up to the England Deaf Rugby Union Women's team this season. She earned a late selection for a self-funded spot on the South Africa tour as a replacement of an injured player.

Samm Hart

A fundraising campaign she started has received donations from individuals and institutions including Sport Brighton and Surrey Rugby, making it possible to cover initial costs of the trip.

Samm said: “I was both shocked and grateful that I was picked by the manager and coaching staff for this tour despite joining the squad just shortly before. I can't describe in words how much of an honour it is to play for my country and wear the rose. I was extremely lucky to have received donations from the university, alumni and rugby community through my GoFundMe page.

“This tour will involve my debut for my country and add international caps to my playing history. It will be a great opportunity to develop my rugby community and skills to a higher level and fully integrate myself into my new team.”

Lucy Callingham, Sports Development Officer at the University of Brighton, said: “We are incredibly excited and proud to see Samm embark on a tour to South Africa with the England Deaf Rugby Women's team. As one of our Rugby Development Interns this year, Samm has played a crucial role in supporting the growth of the women's rugby club through her dedicated coaching support. Her journey is an inspiration to us all, and we can't wait to see her excel on the international stage.”

The tour, originally scheduled to have taken place in summer of 2020, was suspended due to the COVID-19 pandemic which hit South Africa particularly hard.

Whilst in South Africa, members of both the men and women’s teams of the England Deaf Rugby Union, and their staff will engage in charity work to learn and offer support to the local communities they will be hosted in.