After a successful season helping Bedford Blues Women gain promotion in their inaugural season, Martina Sharp has won a call up to her native Slovakia for the European Cup.
The Sevens competition begins on 4th June in Belgrade, Serbia with Slovakia competing in Europe Conference Division One.
Slovakia are one of thirteen nations competing in the Sevens tournament and while Sharp has been training with the squad, she will be hoping to make her debut this Summer.
Speaking to Bedford Blues, Martina was understandably excited about her opportunity in the international arena:
“It’s an honour to be asked to represent my country and I’m so grateful and thankful for the chance.
“Rugby has afforded me so many opportunities to be part of a community, opened doors and allowed me to achieve something for myself.
“I want to thank the Bedford Blues Women’s team for guiding me towards both the East Midlands and the Slovakian 7’s team.”
When asked what’s next for Martina she said, “I would love to inspire women and girls like my daughter and promote women in sport, especially rugby, to a wider audience.’
Head Coach, Mark Stapley was equally delighted for Martina after he guided his side to a league title in his first full season as the Bedford Blues Women’s coach.
“Martina is an integral part of the team and always delivers a high level of rugby. With her selection to the East Midlands and Slovakia’s 7’s team we extremely proud and know she will do well.”
The international call up caps a superb season for the Blues winger who hope to stamp her authority on the European stage before re-joining Bedford to help try and secure back-to-back promotions heading into 2023.
