Reading RFC has announced that Yasmin Miller, the Club’s President and long-standing champion of women’s rugby, has been recognised by the Rugby Football Union (RFU) as one of the 25 Female Pioneers of English Rugby.
Yasmin has been at the heart of Reading RFC for nearly three decades. She joined the club in 1997, taking up rugby at the age of 26 when opportunities for women in the sport were still limited. From her very first match she became a dedicated tight-head prop, a position she proudly held for her entire 18-year playing career.
When injury brought her playing days to an end, Yasmin’s commitment to the club only deepened. She served as Treasurer of the Women’s Section, Club Secretary, and organiser of Reading RFC’s popular summer music and beer festival, while actively promoting inclusive rugby formats such as Walking Rugby and Mixed Ability Rugby.
In 2019, Yasmin gained further recognition as Reading RFC’s first female Club President, representing the club at home and away fixtures, milestone celebrations such as the 125th Anniversary Dinner, and throughout the wider rugby community.
Her leadership, energy, and dedication have made her a visible role model for women and girls in rugby. Beyond her club duties, Yasmin also serves on the Chilterns branch committee of Wooden Spoon, the children’s rugby charity, and volunteered at the Women’s Rugby World Cup, where England, as the home nation, went on to lift the trophy.
Being recognised by the RFU as one of the Female Pioneers of English Rugby is a fitting tribute to her remarkable contribution to the game.
“Yasmin embodies the spirit of Reading RFC: resilient, inclusive, and forward-looking,” said Reading RFC Chair, John Kelly. “Her example continues to inspire players, supporters, and volunteers of all ages to believe in what they can achieve, both on and off the pitch.”
Yasmin says “I am truly honoured to have been recognised as one of the RFU Female Pioneers of English Rugby. To stand alongside 24 other inspiring women trailblazers feels surreal, especially as many of them are England players, coaches, and medics”
“I look forward to continuing to inspire more people, especially women and girls, to get involved in the game, whether as players, coaches, match officials, or parents”.
Yasmin continues to be a leading voice for women’s rugby, and with this latest recognition as a Pioneer of Women’s Rugby in England, she will visit local schools and colleges to promote the many benefits that playing rugby can bring to young women.
