Meet 2025 Rugby Recruit: Allison Rubbo

We’re excited to kick off a new series of interviews celebrating the international student-athletes who are set to begin their university journeys in the UK this September.

Every year, the UK continues to attract sport focused students from around the world who are looking to combine academic excellence with elite-level sport.

We’ve had the privilege of working with hundreds of talented student-athletes and their families ahead of the 2025/26 academic year, helping them take the next step in both their sporting careers and education through our free, personalised guidance and expertise.

Among our first confirmed arrivals for 2025 is Allison Rubbo, a standout rugby player from Ridgefield High School in the United States. With our support, Allison has secured her place at one of the UK’s top rugby universities, where she’ll be competing at the highest level while studying for a bachelor’s degree in Sport Science.

We caught up with Allison to learn more about her decision to study in the UK, and what she’s most excited about as she prepares to start this new chapter.

Can you tell us a bit about your rugby journey so far—how did you get into the sport, and what have been some of your biggest achievements?

“In 2023 I started the Girls Rugby program at my High School, from then on as a team we won many games, went to championships, and had an enormous amount of fun!

My Assistant Coach has pushed me to play in a Women’s League in Danbury and it has only made me a stronger player. Through these experiences, I was able to play in CT All Stars and NY 7 tournament. At the end of my High School season, I plan on going back to play with CT all Stars for a second time.”

What inspired you to look beyond the U.S. for your university experience, and why did the UK stand out as the best place to pursue both your education and rugby career?

“I say many things inspired me to look beyond the U.S. for my university experience but in reality it was my Head Coach, George Saul. George brings a new meaning to playing women’s rugby. He has taught me everything I know about rugby whether it’s from how to play, being a team leader, or that salads don’t win scrums!

George had once suggested looking at the UK for my education and athletic career and ever since no school in the U.S. has stood out to me. Women’s rugby is the largest growing sport in the U.S. right now. As much as I would want to stay in the U.S. I know that going to university in the UK will help me achieve all my education and athletic goals. ”

How did you first hear about The Student Sport Company, and what made you decide to use their free service to explore university rugby opportunities in the UK?

“During my search for universities, I came across The Student Sport Company while browsing online and decided to reach out. At first, I ignored a few follow-up messages thinking it was scammers, but eventually, I decided to get in touch. My mom had the first “parent Zoom meeting” to learn more about how the process worked and what they had to offer. She was really impressed with their insight, how helpful they were, and their genuine desire to assist students.

After that, I got involved and shared my goals for university and my passion for rugby. They were extremely helpful, especially since researching UK universities from the US was a bit overwhelming. They quickly recommended a list of schools that fit my academic goals and rugby interests. Once I narrowed it down to my top five choices, they connected me with coaches, staff, and even helped arrange campus visits.

They also played a huge role in guiding me through the UCAS application process, making it a lot less stressful. Even after I chose the university I wanted to attend, they made sure I understood exactly how to accept my offers and explained the next steps. Everyone at The Student Sport Company was so responsive, knowledgeable, and truly cared about helping me succeed.

I’m so grateful for their support in making my university and rugby dreams a reality!”

The Student Sport Company helped you arrange a visit to the UK, where you toured multiple universities, including Cardiff Met. How valuable was that experience in helping you make your final decision?

“The Student Sport Company has made my application process a whole lot easier and less stressful. They have communicated with me and parents about different opportunities and the best schools to look at,  and were extremely helpful with navigating the UCAS system.

I would recommend the Student Sport Company to any student trying to find the perfect UK university for them!”

Cardiff is known for its deep rugby culture. How exciting is it to be joining one of the UK’s top university rugby programmes, and what are you most looking forward to as a student-athlete?

“I am beyond excited but a little scared about going to a UK university. I cannot wait to continue my athletic career at one of the UK’s top university rugby programs.

As a student-athlete I am most looking forward to being able to apply the knowledge I gain during lectures into practices and games. I know I will only grow as a student and player in many new ways.”

Interested in pursuing your rugby career and education at a UK University? We can help!

We proudly work with the leading sporting and academic institutions throughout the U.K. and are able to offer international students of all ages and levels of study the opportunity to combine their preferred academic qualifications with their sporting ambitions.

Learn more about UK university rugby below or register your details for our free service to embark on an exciting student-athlete journey in the UK.