Red Roses Seek to Make History in Women's Six Nations
England's Marlie Packer recalls the early days of women's rugby, when a handful of fans and a few dogs would gather to watch her team play. Fast forward to the present, and the longest-serving member of the Red Roses has experienced the thrill of performing in front of a sold-out crowd of 81,000 at Twickenham's Allianz Stadium. The electric atmosphere was a testament to the team's growing popularity, which has been building momentum since their World Cup victory. As the Red Roses prepare to defend their title in the Women's Six Nations, they are determined to make history by becoming the first team to follow a World Cup win with a Grand Slam. The team's success can be attributed to a cultural overhaul led by head coach John Mitchell, who has fostered an environment that encourages players to be themselves and push beyond their comfort zones. With a new generation of players emerging, including seven uncapped athletes, the Red Roses are poised to continue their dominance and inspire a new wave of fans. Captain Megan Jones believes that the team's willingness to challenge themselves and try new things has been key to their success, and that they must continue to evolve and improve in order to stay ahead of the competition. As the team looks to the future, they are aware of the impact they can have on the sport and on their fans, and are committed to using their platform to inspire and empower young people, regardless of their background or gender.