Rachel McLachlan

In just nine months of starting the physiotherapy course and joining the Women’s Rugby Society at GCU, alumna Rachel McLachlan received her first cap for Scotland Women Sevens.

Now playing as one of the forwards for the Women’s National Rugby Team, Rachel credits her sporting success to GCU’s Women Rugby Society.

The former Judo champion always loved sport but for the majority of her childhood, Judo took pride of place – having not played any Rugby before.

Fresh out of school with a passion for physiotherapy, she started a new life in Glasgow, excited to make new friends and soak up the University experience. Although, part of her was saddened to leave Judo behind as balancing her studies and commute to Edinburgh to play Judo became difficult.

She said: “I think you know things happen for a reason and I am a firm believer that I was very much meant to come to GCU. If I didn’t, I might not have played rugby, I might not be doing what I'm doing, and I'm so grateful that I am.

You’re never too late

Inspiring the future generation of girls in sports is a passion for Rachel.

Rachel said: “I think university sport for women is a massive stepping stone, I would never have got into rugby if it weren’t for university. I think university sport is underrated to it massive development platform to getting into national squads and that kind of professional sport environment.”

Rugby was a massive part of her university life because “a lot of the physios played Rugby.”

She added: “There was a real camaraderie of going to the game and on a Wednesday going to the Union. I think it was my favourite part. I remember once we beat Edinburgh University women’s team and it was massive for us because we became the best in the league, and they were very good. It was just a really great game.”