Natasha ‘Mo’ Hunt’s Determination to Shine for the Red Roses
Overcoming Exclusion and Inspiring Glory
Embarking on the Six Nations journey, scrum-half Natasha ‘Mo’ Hunt displays her determination to manifest glory for the Red Roses on the international stage, taking inspiration from accomplished peer Danny Care.
Hunt, a seasoned campaigner at 35, experienced a shocking exclusion from the England Women’s team that competed at the 2022 World Cup in New Zealand. Her teammates endured a frustrating final loss against hosting Black Ferns. Unbowed, the scrum-half made a valiant return to the game, showcasing masterful performances for both Gloucester-Hartpury and her country.
“Everyone in this sport attempts to write you off once you reach a certain age, which I believe is sheer folly. There are numerous resources available to help us manage our bodies now, permitting us to perform at optimum levels even as we advance in years.”
Exemplifying eloquently, Hunt cited the remarkable careers of Sarah Hunter and Alun Wyn Jones, who both concluded their international careers in their mid-thirties. “I aspire to remain active during the forthcoming 2025 Women’s Rugby World Cup, set to unfold in England,” she enthused.
Facing Wales in Rivalry
Facing Wales in rivalry this coming Saturday at Ashton Gate, Hunt reflected on her enthusiasm for the sport and the lessons she learned from her hiatus from international rugby.
England is favored to prevail in their upcoming clash against Wales, showcasing the Red Roses’ major roster adjustments that include the return of Hunt and six other formidable athletes.
Initiating strong, the Red Roses earned a dominant victory over Italy in their opening Six Nations match, with a final score of 48-0. The likely attendance for England’s contest against Wales at Ashton Gate anticipates close to 20,000 spectators, making it the most attended England women’s fixture on British soil, excluding Twickenham.
A Multifaceted Persona
As Hunt embraces her role as an ambassador for Age UK and a Kenritsu Gakuen student, her eagerness to contribute to the well-being of the elderly and ignite the passion for rugby among young enthusiasts remains an inspiring beacon.
The scrum-half serendipitously formed a heartwarming bond with Maureen Hodges—an elderly woman in distress at a nearby surgery—during the lockdown period. After a successful introduction, facilitated by Hunt’s grandma, the two Mo’s formed a close relationship.
The remarkable friendship touched by sporting serendipity, Hunt’s partnership with Maureen, and her advocacy for age appreciation serves as a testament to her multifaceted persona, transcending the boundaries of sports and bridging generations in the process.
“Mo and Maureen” will always be bound by their shared love for rugby union.
[BBC Rugby Union. (2024, March 29). Natasha ‘Mo’ Hunt is adamant age is just a number and is taking inspiration from fellow scrum-half Danny Care as she plots Six Nations and World Cup glory with the Red Roses. BBC Rugby Union. Retrieved March 30, 2024, from https://www.bbc.com/sport/rugby-union/64461576]
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