Questions about the life and demands of being an elite international athlete were tackled with style as John Lyon welcomed England rugby legend Rocky Clark.

Recently retired from international duty having played 137 times for her country, Rochelle ‘Rocky’ Clark took time out of her busy schedule to speak to Lower Sixth students at their start of year dinner on Friday 7th September.

Rocky, whose international career spanned 15 years and included 23 tries and 115 points, won eight Six Nations titles, seven Grand Slams and played in four World Cup finals, famously triumphing over Canada in the 2014 final. She was awarded the MBE in 2015 for her services to rugby. She currently coaches the men’s First XV at nearby Chesham Stags.

Lower Sixth student Adam Zaromba, writes: “It was inspirational to hear about Rocky’s determination and work ethic, that were showcased throughout her career as she had to overcome minor and major setbacks. She participated in four World Cup finals, narrowly losing three, but coming out on top in 2014.

“What motivated me most was hearing of Rocky’s constant desire to not only better herself as an athlete, but as a person as well. She coaches disabled children in rugby, which made me reflect on how she is giving back to the community, whilst also spreading her love of rugby. Her organisation – fitting in elite training with work as a rugby coach and personal trainer – shows that no matter how busy one may be, if you are passionate and determined to achieve your goals, you will stop at nothing to achieve them.”

Rocky Clark is one of a number of guest speakers who come to John Lyon to inspire pupils. Recent guests include Professor Lord Winston and BBC Journalist Emily Maitlis.

John Lyon is an independent school, a member of HMC, ISC and is reviewed in the Good Schools Guide.

Pupils typically join John Lyon in Years 7, 9 and 12, largely from a North West London catchment area including Harrow, Wembley, Stanmore, Pinner, Watford, Rickmansworth, Northwood, Ruislip, Hillingdon, Uxbridge, Ickenham, Northolt, Southall, Ealing, Acton, Edgware, Brent Cross, Finchley, Barnet, Camden, Westminster, Kensington & Chelsea, Hammersmith & Fulham, as well as other parts of Middlesex, Berkshire, Buckinghamshire and Hertfordshire.

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