Kirsty Johnstone's journey back to rugby with The Cranes Mixed Ability team

Name: Kirsty Johnstone
Club: Stothert and Pitt RFC
Quote: “I came back to rugby because I needed a work-life balance, and mixed ability rugby gave me that opportunity.”

Kirsty Johnstone’s rugby journey began in 2002 at Aberystwyth University, where she played for three years and co-founded her university’s first 7’s team. After university, Kirsty returned to Bristol, hoping to keep rugby in her life. She pursued a master’s degree at UWE, aiming to recreate the camaraderie and activity she’d enjoyed at university. However, despite her efforts, she struggled to find a similar experience.

After 18 months, Kirsty decided to leave her master’s programme and discovered a new passion in teaching. She completed her PGCE at Cardiff Met University, all while making successful appearances for Cardiff Met’s 1XV. During this time, she also coached tag rugby for children with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) at North Bristol RFC and established a girls’ rugby team at Ashton Park School.

Despite these positive experiences, rugby gradually faded from Kirsty’s life due to work commitments and a lack of time. By 2011, her rugby boots were officially hung up. But fast forward to 2024, and Kirsty has returned to the game she loves, joining The Cranes, Stothert & Pitt RFC’s mixed ability team, formed with support from Project Rugby and Bath Rugby Foundation.

Project Rugby has given Kirsty the chance to re-engage with rugby after a 12-year hiatus, helping her achieve a healthier work-life balance and improve both her physical and mental health. She has found new joy in The Cranes’ inclusive, friendly environment, where the mixed ability model lets her train at her own pace and steadily build her confidence.

Being part of Project Rugby has allowed Kirsty to reconnect with rugby, support her mental wellbeing, and belong to a club once again.