In an exciting development for women's rugby, England international Abi Burton has been elected to chair the sport's first-ever dedicated Women's Rugby Board, marking a transformative moment for female players across the game.

The 25-year-old Trailfinders Women back row brings both athletic excellence and remarkable personal resilience to the role. Burton's journey to this leadership position is nothing short of inspirational. Just three years ago, she faced a life-threatening health crisis when doctors had to place her in a medically-induced coma to treat a serious immune disease attacking her brain. Her recovery and return to elite rugby stands as a testament to her determination and strength of character.

That fighting spirit carried Burton all the way to rugby's highest honor last September, when she helped England's Red Roses claim victory at the Women's Rugby World Cup. Now, she's channeling that same energy into advocacy, ready to ensure players' voices resonate at the highest levels of the sport.

"I'm really proud to have been elected chair of the first Women's Rugby Board," Burton shared enthusiastically. "It's an important opportunity to ensure players' voices are heard, and I'm looking forward to working with the board and the RPA to represent players across the women's game."

The formation of this dedicated board by The Rugby Players Association represents a significant milestone in recognizing the unique needs and perspectives of women in rugby. Rather than having female players' concerns diluted within mixed forums, this separate structure empowers them to address the specific challenges and opportunities they face while celebrating their distinct achievements.

Burton won't be working alone in this exciting new chapter. Bristol Bears and Wales full-back Jenny Hesketh has been elected as vice-chair, bringing international experience and leadership to the team. The board also includes Emily Tuttosi from Exeter Chiefs, who showcased her talents on the world stage when she started for Canada in last year's World Cup final against England.

Representatives from all nine Premiership Women's Rugby clubs will have seats at the table, including players from Gloucester Hartpury, Harlequins, Leicester Tigers, Loughborough Lightning, Sale Sharks, and Saracens. This comprehensive representation ensures that perspectives from across the league will shape decisions affecting the women's game.

The timing couldn't be better. Women's rugby has experienced tremendous growth in recent years, with increased visibility, expanding professional opportunities, and surging public interest following England's World Cup success. This leadership structure will help sustain and accelerate that momentum, ensuring players themselves guide the sport's evolution.

For Burton, who has scored two tries in her four Test appearances for England, this role represents another remarkable achievement in an already extraordinary career. Her personal journey from hospital bed to World Cup champion to player advocate embodies the resilience and ambition driving women's rugby forward. With dedicated leaders like Burton at the helm, the future of women's rugby looks brighter than ever.