Harlequins Women can confirm that second row Abbie Ward will leave South West London and join Bristol Bears Women ahead of the 2021/22 Allianz Premier 15s season.
The England international has made 48 appearances in the famous Quarters since joining in 2017 from DMP Sharks, playing her last match in the Club’s Premier 15s title winning game against Saracens Women at Kingsholm Stadium last month.
It has been a successful four-season spell at Quins for Ward, scoring numerous tries and becoming a fan favourite as she quickly turned into one of the first names to feature on the team sheet each week.
Speaking on her departure, Ward commented “I joined Quins back in 2017 and for me it was the best Women’s rugby programme in the country. Over the last four seasons I have played with some absolutely amazing players and that has been proved with the number of international caps earnt by the players within the current squad.
“To be leaving Quins having won the Allianz Premier 15s title is absolutely amazing so a huge thank you to everyone behind the scenes at Harlequins who enabled us to fulfil our dream.”
Head Coach Gerard Mullen is thankful for Ward’s efforts at Quins and wishes her the best of the luck in the rest of her career.
“Abbie has been a big part of the Club over the last few years. She has shown strong leadership qualities and has been a valuable member of the squad.
“We’ve always had a very strong set piece and Abbie’s played a huge role in that being successful, leading us to silverware this season. Everyone at Quins wishes Abbie and her husband Dave the very best of luck over at Bristol Bears.”
PHOTO BY NEIL KENNEDY
