football, but I’m more determined than ever to be fit enough to carry the Olympic Flame as it’s a great honour”

LSH’s Junior Chairman Ste Metcalfe said everyone at the club was extremely proud of Claudia’s achievements “Being chosen as an Olympic Torchbearer is an incredible honour for Claudia and she fully deserves this. I’m sure all her team mates will be there to cheer her along”.

"Claudia Dowdeswell is a Year 9 student at De La Salle School in St Helens. She has always shown a keen interest in a variety of sports including football and rugby union.

“Claudia joined Liverpool St Helens Rugby Union Club in 2009 and was appointed Captain of the U15s in 2010. During her time as captain she has encouraged countless girls to take up rugby and has freely given her time to join the Youth Committee, which carries out voluntary work at the club and in the community.

“Claudia has since gained County honours for Lancashire and was selected to play for the North of England which is the first stage of the elite player's performance pathway”

Liverpool St.Helens Girls’ inspirational captain Claudia Dowdeswell was  chosen to carry the Olympic Flame on 1st June 2012 as part of the Olympic Torch Relay.  Claudia had been nominated for the honour because of her remarkable sporting achievements which saw her gain County and Divisional honours last season.  Claudia was then selected for inclusion in the RFUW National Talent Development Group which is designed to identify and develop future England International players.

Claudia was especially delighted to receive the news as she is currently recovering from a knee operation “I’ve missed most of the rugby season because I picked up a knee injury playing