Honey Kerslake wore a New Zealand shirt during the last women’s World Cup final but stresses that if there’s a repeat in this year’s final later this month, the England U18s No.8 will firmly be cheering on the Red Roses.
Kiwi-born Kerslake was raised in Devon but has Pacific rugby running through her veins. Her father wore the famous black jersey, while her aunt represented Samoa Sevens, but now she is making her own name as a powerful ball-carrying forward in the England U18s set-up.
She told The Rugby Paper: “I watched it with my family in New Zealand wearing an All Blacks shirt. This time I’ll be in a white one instead!
“Rugby’s always been a big influence in my family. I started at Ilfracombe Rugby Club in North Devon, playing touch with the boys in the under-10s. I went with one of my best friends, and it was just a great time. My mum pushed me to give it a go, and luckily I loved it – I don’t know what else I would have done.
“I feel really proud to represent England. I’ve had so many opportunities already, and I just want to keep building on them. Hopefully, there are many more to come.”
The Exeter College student admits she still enjoys Pacific Island rugby and watching her family’s old teams, but England has given her opportunities she never expected.
“I’ve always watched New Zealand and Pacific Island rugby because of my dad and aunties. When I joined Exeter College, I didn’t know there even was a pathway into England U18s,” said Kerslake. “At under-16s it feels like a free-for-all, and then suddenly at college everything’s organised – the kit, the management, the support. All we have to do is play our best. It’s been immense.”
Her player development group, led by World Cup winner Nolli Waterman, has been another boost, as she hopes to continue her bulldozer carries but says she must improve her communication skills as she climbs the age groups.
She added: “PDG opens the door to England. It’s been brilliant to play with other girls my age from across the region and build those connections.
“I’m a big ball-carrier. I tend to run it straight – I don’t have much footwork on me! I’m quite a stern, to-the-point character. I don’t say too much, but I know sometimes I need to speak up more, respond and listen to my peers. That’s a big work-on for me.”
Beyond that, she is already eyeing up a second year in the England U18s squad after making her debut earlier this year against France. She added: “I’ve got another year left, so I’d love to make the team again. It’s about pushing myself and proving I deserve to be there.” Life at Exeter College is rugby-heavy, but Kerslake says the off-field balance is just as important to allow her to switch off.
“The social downtime here is really good,” said Kerslake. “We’re all in a big boarding house, so you can just go to your room for quiet time or play games in the common room. It really helps take your mind away from rugby and gives you a proper break.”
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