Page 15 - Federation magazine: October / November 2016

Gemma lands place in
British Police rugby side

West Midlands response officer Gemma Paul has just
tackled a very different challenge.
Following her call-up earlier this year to join the British
Police Women’s Rugby squad, former prison officer Gemma has
returned from her debut game for the team against
Switzerland on 10 September.
Although the British team did not get the result they
wanted, Gemma said it was a great experience: “The call-up
was unexpected so I was really surprised, excited and proud all
at the same time.
“I feel very proud to have represented the Force both as an
officer and on the rugby field. Unfortunately, we lost 44-0 to
Switzerland but we did play in 32 degree heat. I played the full
game and enjoyed it and playing with the team.”
Gemma, who is originally from Lichfield, has been playing
rugby since she was 12 years-old and previously represented
Lichfield, Longton, Loughborough University, England A,
England Academy and England Students.
She only joined West Midlands Police a year ago.
“The entire last 12 months have been exciting, having first
joined West Midlands Police and then getting the chance to
play for the Great Britain police team,” she added.
“I play on the front row and love that rugby is such a team
sport with great camaraderie between all team mates who
have become friends for life.
“In both rugby and policing, team work, communication
and leadership are essential, as is being physically fit.”
Gemma’s next match with the GB police team will be on 2
March against the Royal Air Force.

www.westmidspolfed.com federation October/November 2016 15