A rugby player has been selected for an international mixed ability squad.
Hannah Stevenson, who plays for the Ledbury RFC Honey Badgers, will join the M.A.R.I.S. (Mixed Ability Rugby Invitational Side) for its autumn tour to Cork, Ireland.
The M.A.R.I.S. programme brings together players from around the world who demonstrate commitment, rugby spirit, work ethic, and passion for the game, as well as a dedication to inclusion.
Ms Stevenson is the only woman from England to be selected for this year’s tour.
She said: "The MARIS is more than a game, it's a once-in-a-lifetime chance to stand shoulder to shoulder with players from every place, all bound by rugby, all bound by inclusion.
"You only play once, but you wear the number for life.
"That number says: you were chosen, you were wanted, you had something real to give.
"For me, autistic and often left out, MARIS means I am not just invited—I belong.
"Not as someone difficult, but as someone who matters.
"The MARIS is proof that a single game can leave a lifetime mark, a reminder that I was seen, and that I’ll carry with me always; 'I AM A MARI'."
The Honey Badgers are Ledbury RFC’s mixed ability team, part of a new division launched earlier this year after director of rugby Chris Wallin proposed expanding the club’s inclusive rugby offering.
Training began on Wednesday evenings in early September, and Ledbury RFC has become the first club in Herefordshire to host a mixed ability rugby programme.
Ms Stevenson’s journey in rugby began at age 11, though she was discouraged from playing due to her hearing impairment.
At 16, she was diagnosed with autism, which helped her better understand how to navigate the world.
Despite ongoing mental health challenges, she has persevered.
When she first joined mixed ability rugby, Ms Stevenson was described as extremely shy and easily overwhelmed.
She has since become a skilled player, known for her wrap tackles and footwork, and has grown into a supportive mentor for newer teammates.
A spokesperson for Ledbury RFC said: "Hannah is now an independent woman who inspirationally navigates her differences with strength and confidence.
"We are so proud of her journey and can't wait to see her shine on the world stage."
Ledbury RFC offers mixed ability rugby taster sessions every Tuesday and Thursday from 6pm to 7pm at the club’s grounds on Ross Road.
The sessions are open to anyone interested in getting involved, making friends, and enjoying light, inclusive exercise.
Those interested can contact the team via their Facebook page (facebook.com/ledburyrfcmixedability) or by emailing mixedability@ledburyrfc.co.uk.
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