Whilst holidaying in France, Pippa Curley (pictured with England second row, Zoe Aldcroft) received notification that she had been shortlisted as a finalist for the National Rugby Awards, to be held at Twickenham on Thursday 29th August - a complete surprise indeed.

Her teacher, Mr Whitely (Whitcliffe Mount School) had nominated her a few months ago (unbeknown to Pippa) for the prestigious awards that recognise commitment, input and achievement across both senior and junior clubs and school teams across the whole country.

Pippa has been short listed from over 1000 nominees along with 5 other others for the 'spirit of rugby' award and will be attending the ceremony with her family this week for the stadium tour with some of their rugby heroes, something that is a dream for any rugby mad child!

Her nomination follows her district success in both codes at club level, along with her desire for the whole U15's team at her club Cleckheaton RUFC and her school team at Whitcliffe Mount to develop as a team rather than just as individuals on the field. Her commitment to help with coaching at younger age groups and all round passion for the game is clear for all to see, whilst her desire and recommendation for her teammates who have shown real improvement to be both recognised and awarded club and school awards above those would normally be the obvious candidates, showing true sportsmanship.

We have everything crossed for you at the event, however reaching the final itself is an honour recognised by all her teammates, friends and family. Good luck Pippa!