View from the Boundary: Red Roses World Cup winner Sarah Bern.

Sarah Byrne, a prominent figure in women's rugby, shares insights into her career and the evolution of women's sports during her appearance on the TMS Podcast. Reflecting on her triumph at the 2016 Women's Rugby World Cup and the significant public support for England’s women's team, Byrne reveals how this momentum is fostering growth and interest in the sport.

She shares her experiences of transitioning from rugby to cricket during a pitch swap event, illustrating an enjoyable cross-sport experience and drawing parallels between the individualized roles in rugby and cricket. Byrne talks about the cultural shifts around body positivity in sports, encouraging women to embrace their unique builds and not be confined to societal norms.

Byrne also addresses the structural developments in women's rugby, including the ongoing efforts for professionalization, and discusses the need for gender parity within sports contracts. She highlights the importance of acknowledging past players and trailblazers who paved the way for current athletes. In her personal reflection, she emphasizes a supportive environment for athletes, especially mothers, showcasing the growth and normalization of parenting in professional sports, encapsulated by stories of colleagues balancing motherhood with elite performance.