Game Changer: The trailblazing rugby star on smashing barriers in women's sport

by Ellie Kildunne

'Lukewarm is no good.'

As a youngster, Ellie Kildunne was told girls don’t play rugby. But that’s what she was good at, and she was determined to find a way.

Growing up in Yorkshire, Ellie started playing Rugby aged six with a boys’ team, which she continued to do until she was 13, constantly having to prove herself as the only girl. Then, her mum found out about some local U15 trials for girls. She did the trial, made the team, and thus began the career of an England rugby great.

But to achieve greatness in sport is not an easy journey. Ellie has faced prejudice. She has fought through career-threatening injury. While the hyper focus that is part of her ADHD superpower has driven her forward, there’s a difference to the way she processes information that has led to misunderstandings and conflict, at school, at college and in her professional life.

Ellie’s guiding philosophy is ‘Luke warm is no good’. Her passion for rugby was always white hot. The fire will never go out, and the setbacks have made her stronger. Now, on the back of an historic World Cup win with the Red Roses and with unparalleled energy, she wants to show other girls and women they can do it too.

This is the incredible story of a true game changer.

Genres: Audiobook

257 pages, Kindle Edition

Published April 9, 2026

Reviews

[Luke Mallaghan · Rating 5 out of 5]

A really fascinating insight into the most electric athlete of any gender or any sport I have ever seen. I feel privileged to have seen some of the magic in person. A very conversational, easy read.

5*

[Kate · Rating 5 out of 5]

I thoroughly enjoyed this one! Listened to it on audio and learnt so much about Ellie as not only a phenomenal athlete but also as a human with the same struggles as anyone else. Her determination is something to behold!
I've had the pleasure of watching her play for both England and Quins. She in fact made me a Quins supporter (that and the fact I love their pink away shirt 😂). Having supported Bath for 20+ years because my hubby did it's nice to have my own club to follow and support.....all because of the influence Ellie has on the people around her!
Lukewarm is no good.....
Highly recommend!

[Hannah · Rating 5 out of 5]

what. a. babe.

[Willow · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was my holiday read and when I finished it on the plane home I ended up having a little cry.

It was really lovely to read about one of my favourite athletes going through similar experiences to me and know that we’ve both come out the other side stronger for it; plus, it’s always nice to know I’m not the only neurodivergent girl who occasionally needs to be reminded to eat.

This was a wonderful reminder that you should always be yourself, try your best and, if you love something, the passion for it should burn white hot, lukewarm is no good after all!

No secret that I adore this woman, but my goodness, what a star girl. Even if you’ve never watched a game of rugby, consider picking this one up (or giving it a listen, she does narrate it!)

Thanks Ellie for always being “just Ellie - a little weirdo from West Yorkshire”, this weirdo on the south coast will always be inspired by you ❤️🌹

[Nanda · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this - it’s so inspirational! It’s well class to see what life is like for someone like Ellie. Also, learning about her struggles and triumphs was so inspiring - defo a must read for any rugby fans, and also just a must read for people struggling with mental health! Loved this.

[Natasha Henn · Rating 5 out of 5]

what a fantastic player

Loved the book. A truely inspiring story of a normal girl who followed her dreams. Ellie is inspirational to so many .

[Amy Cartwright · Rating 5 out of 5]

An excellent read. If you’re a rugby fan or not this is a great book to read. Loved every page, read it in just over a day. Can’t wait to see what’s for Ellie next. A true inspiration!

[Matthew Povah-Hill · Rating 5 out of 5]

Such an inspiring woman. Her story shows even the best struggle and fight back.

[Amy Baxter · Rating 5 out of 5]

Lovely little insight into one of the biggest rugby players of all time! Ellie is so inspirational and I can’t wait to see what she does next! 🌹🏉