Rugby Legend Emily Scarratt Joins England as Full-Time Coach

One of rugby's greatest players is now shaping the next generation from the touchline instead of the pitch.

Emily Scarratt, England's all-time leading scorer and the only English player to compete at five Rugby World Cups, has officially joined the Red Roses coaching staff permanently. The 36-year-old took on the role of lead attack and backs coach on an interim basis earlier this year and helped England secure their eighth straight Women's Six Nations title in May.

The results speak for themselves. Under Scarratt's guidance, England's attack scored 27 more points during the 2026 Six Nations compared to the previous year. Her transition from player to coach came just months after she retired following England's World Cup victory at a sold-out Allianz Stadium last September.

Scarratt is leaving her position as assistant coach at Loughborough Lightning, where she spent eight years as both player and coach. She described the move as both challenging and rewarding, acknowledging the nerves that came with coaching the same team where she made her name as a player.

Head coach John Mitchell praised her immediate impact, noting the insight, calmness, and experience she brings to the environment every day. Her appointment fills the gap left by former attack coach Lou Meadows, who departed after the World Cup triumph.

Why This Inspires

Scarratt's journey from legendary player to respected coach shows how women's rugby continues building from within. She's not just teaching tactics. She's proving that female athletes belong in coaching rooms, strategy sessions, and leadership positions across the sport.

Her commitment matters beyond England too. Every successful female coach opens doors for others and challenges outdated assumptions about who gets to lead teams. Scarratt has spoken publicly about the need to get more women into coaching roles, and now she's living that mission.

After 119 caps and countless memories in the red rose jersey, Scarratt expressed gratitude for her time at Loughborough while embracing the ambition of her new full-time role. She's ready to help build England's future, one training session at a time.

The Red Roses are in excellent hands.