Brighton alumna tackles physio role for England Women’s Rugby World Cup 

University of Brighton graduate Katy Williams is gearing up for the Women’s Rugby World Cup this September – not on the pitch, but on the sidelines as a physiotherapist, providing on-field medical support for players and match officials during the quarter and semi-finals in Bristol.  

Specialising in musculoskeletal and multi-sports physiotherapy, Katy will be on hand as part of the medical response team, ready to step in for any on-field emergencies involving players or referees during the England vs Scotland quarter-final on 14 September, and the semi-finals on 19 and 20 September. 

Reflecting on her role, Katy emphasises the growing prominence and professionalism of women’s rugby. She says: “Providing the same level of medical and logistical support for female athletes as their male counterparts is essential – it sends a clear message about the value of women’s sport. Over the past few years, I’ve seen the professionalism of women’s rugby grow at incredible pace, and it’s exciting to be part of that journey.

“Rugby has been a core part of my career, and being involved in a tournament of this scale feels like a real milestone – not just for me personally, but for the wider game.” 

Katy sharpened her game at the University of Brighton, graduating with an MSc in neuromusculoskeletal physiotherapy in 2018. It was here she built the clinical nous, sharp diagnostic instincts, and confidence that now keep elite athletes in play. 

She reflects: “Brighton gave me the tools to work effectively in high-pressure environments, and the support of mentors and fellow alumni has remained invaluable throughout my career. Brighton taught me how to combine technical expertise with practical problem-solving – something I use every day in elite sport.” 

Dr Angela Glynn, Dean of the School of Education, Sport and Health Sciences at the University of Brighton said: “Katy’s dedication, expertise, and leadership are a fantastic example of the impact our graduates can have. Her career highlights the importance of supporting athletes at the highest level and demonstrates the pathways available for those pursuing a career in sports science and physiotherapy.” 

Since graduating in 2018, Katy has carved out a career across multiple summer and winter sports, namely tennis, rugby and bob-skeleton. She has worked alongside Olympic, World, and European medallists, and her experience spans major international sporting events: the London 2012 Olympics, the Birmingham 2022 Commonwealth Games, and three World University Games. 

Alongside her frontline work, Katy works full-time at Team Bath, the University of Bath’s elite sports programme that supports athletes to compete at the highest levels. She also works with top athletes through contracts with the UK Sports Institute, the Lawn Tennis Association, Pentathlon GB, and the British Bobsleigh & Skeleton Association. 

Katy is also shaping the next generation as a Teaching Fellow at the University of Bath, mentoring MSc students while contributing to research and professional development across sport science. 

From Brighton to Bath and Bristol, Katy’s career highlights the vital role of women in high-performance sport and the impact of advanced training in physiotherapy on global competition. 

The University of Brighton continues to foster the knowledge, skills, and confidence for graduates to make a tangible difference on national and international stages, empowering careers that inspire and transform sport. 

Find out how you can become an Allied Health Professional with the University of Brighton.