Hannah Botterman

Hannah Botterman Biography

Hannah Ruby Botterman, born on June 8, 1999, is a renowned English rugby union prop famous for her powerful and uncompromising style on the field. She represents Bristol Bears Women at the club level and is an integral member of the England national women's rugby team. Botterman gained wide recognition after making her international debut in 2017 and has since been pivotal in England's multiple victories, including the prestigious 2025 Women’s Rugby World Cup.

Childhood

Hannah Botterman was born in Stevenage, Hertfordshire, England, into a family deeply rooted in rugby heritage. From a very young age, rugby was a large part of her life, inspired by close family members such as her uncle Gregg Botterman, who played as a hooker for Saracens and England, and her aunt Jane Everett, an England international prop. Hannah began playing rugby at the age of four with Datchworth RFC, later moving to Welwyn RFC, showing early signs of her natural talent and passion for the sport.

Education

Botterman attended Monk’s Walk School in Welwyn Garden City before advancing her education and athletic training at Hartpury College, an institution known for developing elite rugby talent. This formal education, paired with her extensive training experience from a young age, helped refine her skills, preparing her for a professional career in rugby. Before turning professional, Botterman also worked as a painter, decorator, and waitress, balancing work while pursuing her passion for rugby.

Career

Hannah Botterman’s rugby career took off when she made her club debut for Saracens Women at age 18 during the 2017/18 season. She quickly became a key player, contributing to consecutive Tyrell Premier 15s titles and scoring the winning try in the 2017/18 final. Internationally, she debuted for England in 2017 against Canada and was awarded a full-time professional contract for the 2019/20 season. She played crucial roles in England's Grand Slam win in the 2019 Women’s Six Nations and represented England in World Cups in 2021 and 2025. In 2023, she transferred to Bristol Bears Women, where she continues to demonstrate her dominance on the pitch.

Family Life

Hannah Botterman hails from a rugby-centric family, with many members having played at competitive levels. Currently, she is in a relationship with fellow rugby union player Holly Aitchison. Botterman’s close relationship with her family and partner reflects her supportive personal foundation, which has been vital to her career success and resilience on and off the field.

Achievements

Among Hannah Botterman’s many achievements, she was a vital part of the England team that won the Women's Rugby World Cup in 2025, a milestone that ended England’s 11-year wait for the title. She has earned over 50 caps for England and was instrumental in winning Grand Slams in the Six Nations Championship. Her club successes include key contributions to Saracens’ back-to-back Tyrell Premier 15s championships and scoring crucial tries that helped seal victories. She is recognized as one of the best looseheads in the world, praised for her scrummaging power and leadership.

Controversies

Hannah Botterman’s career has remained relatively free from controversy. She is well regarded for her professionalism and the positive impact she has on her teams. One of the toughest periods in her life came from dealing with a significant injury during the 2021 Rugby World Cup in New Zealand, coupled with the personal loss of her grandfather, which she faced with resilience and perspective, emphasizing that life extends beyond rugby.

Hannah Botterman Summary

Hannah Botterman stands out as a prominent figure in women’s rugby, known for her strength, skill, and dedication to the sport. Emerging from a strong rugby lineage in Hertfordshire, she has carved her own path through hard work and talent, impacting both club and international rugby profoundly. With multiple championships and a World Cup title under her belt, along with significant contributions to England’s rugby success, Botterman continues to exemplify what it means to be a top athlete and role model in women’s sport.