It has been a standout summer for women’s sport.
England’s World Cup triumph – their third, following wins in 1994 and 2014 – came exactly two months after England’s footballers beat Spain on penalties to defend their title as champions of Europe.
For Aldcroft, the success of Chloe Kelly and company provided that extra injection of inspiration to put consecutive World Cup final defeats behind them and create a legacy of their own.
“It’s amazing. Earlier in the summer we saw the Lionesses and that gave us the inspiration to do our part and build that momentum,” Aldcroft said.
“We wanted to inspire that next generation, to see young girls in the stadium on shoulders but also inspire them to go to their local club, pick up a rugby ball, get into women’s rugby and be the future Red Roses.”
This World Cup triumph is the crowning glory for England.
They are unbeaten in 33 matches and have won the past four Women’s Six Nations without losing a match.
While they are on top of the world, Aldcroft knows they cannot rest on their success.
When the Premiership Women’s Rugby (PWR) season gets under way in late October, England will be front and centre, not only fighting for their clubs and to keep their international places in an increasing competitive field, but also because their job is not done.
“After we’ve had our celebrations, [this chapter] will close. It’s about bringing the next generation of Red Roses to light,” Aldcroft said.
“We’ll get a fresh look at girls coming into the squad and that’s what keeps us fresh and chasing. We’re very competitive people and we want to be at the top of our game.
“We’ve won the World Cup, but in a couple of weeks we’re back in the PWR and wanting to fight for our clubs. It never stops.
“We want to keep pushing and doing better and better, and that’s the same when we put on an England shirt again. We always want to push those limits.
“We have so much more to go, so many more people to inspire. That’s where it goes from here.”
