Anya Richmond was born in Burnley, Lancashire , United Kingdom.
Since a very young age Anya has shown signs of a very promising rugby career ahead of her.
Anya has played rugby for Burnley RUFC from the age of 6. She was selected for Lancashire u15's , whom she captained last season, and North of England u15's at 12 years old and has progressed to Lancashire and North of England u18's this season whilst still under 16. She has also been selected for Talent development group.
Anya has also represented her school rugby team , Blessed Trinity Roman Catholic college in Burnley .
Anya was awarded young achiever at the Burnley community sports awards 2017.
Anya is a very dedicated and hardworking athlete. She trains up to 6 times a week and has made numerous personal sacrifices to dedicate herself to training in order to develop strength and power to play at the highest level. She has worked hard for over 10 years giving up time to play the sport she loves. Travelling long distances to play competitive matches , training sessions and trials.
More recently Anya has been offered a place on the Rugby High Performance Program at the prestigious Loughborough College, being one of only 10 girls picked from the 40 who trialled. As well as developing her rugby Anya will also study Advance Sports Science .
Loughborough college work closely with the new Loughborough Lightening Super Rugby Franchise and Loughborough University. This is a huge step towards Anyas dream of playing for England women.
The average yearly cost for an Elite Athlete to study at Loughborough is £12000 per year .
Anya is supported by her family and also works evenings and weekends as a level 1 swimming instructor to helps towards her rugby expenses.
Any sponsorship raised will go towards Anyas kit and accommodation at the Elite athlete performance centre at Loughborough College.