Brunel University of London students were at the heart of a memorable JAECOO PWR Next Gen Cup campaign, with 18 students featuring across the competition as Trailfinders Women secured a historic 22–21 victory over Saracens in the final.
Twelve current Brunel students represented Trailfinders Women in the final, alongside one Brunel student representing Saracens, highlighting the University's growing contribution to the next generation of women's rugby talent.
The victory, which took place at StoneX Stadium on Saturday 7 November, saw Trailfinders claim their first-ever piece of silverware after a thrilling contest. Having gone into half-time trailing 14-7, Trailfinders fought back in the second half to secure a dramatic one-point win.
The achievement is particularly significant for Brunel's partnership with Ealing Trailfinders, which provides a pathway for talented student-athletes through the Trailfinders Women's Rugby Academy.
The Academy combines high-performance rugby training with university education, giving students the opportunity to develop their sporting potential while gaining a degree. It forms an important part of Trailfinders' ambition to develop the next generation of elite female rugby players.
Having 18 Brunel students involved throughout the Next Gen Cup campaign, representing both Trailfinders and Saracens, demonstrates the quality and depth of talent being developed through the University.
For the 12 Brunel students who represented Trailfinders in the final, the victory was an opportunity to contribute to a landmark moment in the club's history. It also underlines the success of the partnership in creating opportunities for student-athletes to progress towards the professional game.
As Trailfinders Women celebrate their first Next Gen Cup title, Brunel is proud to see its students helping shape the future of women's rugby.