FEMALE students at Milford Haven Secondary School were given reason to be inspired last Wednesday with the presence of a seasoned Welsh rugby international.

Philippa Tuttiett, who won 25 caps as a winger for Wales Women and who has represented her country more than 50 times on the international 7s circuit, spent a day working with pupils as part of her role as an athlete ambassador for the Sky Sports ‘Living for Sport’ programme.

She began by giving motivational talks to girls in years 9, 10, and 11, providing them with an insight into her background and emphasizing how the game of rugby had opened up opportunities for her - and also led some classroom based activities designed to get the students to think on their feet and develop confidence.

The 32-year-old also spoke about her impending trip to Dubai with the Wales 7s team, and how rugby has broadened her horizons and travel experiences.

And in the afternoon, the Cardiff Blues player ran a rugby skills session for the year 9 girls, who then joined students in years 7 and 8 for tackling practice - before leading year 10 and 11 girls through some team bonding exercises.

“It’s a pleasure to be at Milford Haven School and I always try to show pupils how sport can benefit them in their lives,” Philippa said.

“Girls rugby is a prime example. It’s a growing sport and it’s important that young female pupils have the opportunity to try it.”

And Philippa, who in 2011 won widespread praise for becoming the first female builder on Channel Four’s The Restoration Game, said meeting pupils can help them forget the stereotyping often associated with women’s rugby.

“It’s good that I’m able to tell students how rugby helped me whilst at the same time, dispelling some myths around the women’s game.

“I don’t have cauliflower ears or black eyes and with my build many might say I don’t look like a rugby player - but that’s because I play in the back three and you don’t always have to be big.”

The visit was organised by Steve Martin, the WRU Hub Officer for the school, who said afterwards the day had been very worthwhile for students.

“It’s been great to have Philippa here to encourage pupils to be more open minded when it comes to school and to be more positive about the experience.

“She uses rugby as an example as that is where she has found success - but it all ties back into everyday life. 

 “The day was a massive success and I want to say a huge thankyou to Phillipa for running the sessions.”