Bristol Bears Women duo to depart

Monday, July 30th 2018

Bristol Bears Women can confirm that Claire Molloy and Sydney Gregson will depart the club this summer.

Flanker Molloy has been with the club since 2010 and is leaving to join Tyrrell's Premier 15 opponents Wasps Ladies FC, whilst Sydney Gregson is departing to travel to Australia to play domestic rugby in the Southern Hemisphere.

Molloy captained Ireland for the 2017 Women's Rugby World Cup and has played a integral role in the forwards throughout her near decade of service, demonstrating a phenomenal work rate and a unmatched level of physicality.

Speedster Gregson was a stand-out performer throughout the 2017/2018 Tyrell's Premier 15s season showcasing great pace and power.

Her performances over the past year warranted selection for the women's Barbarians FC side in their maiden season and on debut she scored two tries in a convincing victory over the Army.

Head coach Kim Oliver extended her thanks to the duo: " I would like to thank Claire and Sydney for their contributions to Bristol over the years."

"I had the absolute pleasure to play with Claire and she is quite honestly one of the best, her work rate and experience allow her to dominate the breakdown. She is a true leader."

She added: "Sydney is extremely hard working, she runs hard in attack and she scored some fantastic tries last season, whilst showing great aggression in defence."

"I have thoroughly enjoyed working with Claire and Sydney and along with all at Bristol Bears Women I would like to wish them all the best in the future."

Claire Molloy powers through the Saracens defence (via JMPUK).

"My time at Bristol has been nine years of learning, full of challenges which has pushed me to be the player I am today."

"We've been through tough wins and hard losses as a group, but I have made some great friendships and had a whole lot of craic!" said Molloy.

Sydney Gregson slides over against Richmond FC (via JMPUK).

Meanwhile, Sydney Gregson admits her decision to move on wasn't an easy one: "Having played for Bristol since the age of eighteen, I owe a lot to the club and the decision to move on wasn't easy.

"My time at Bristol has been very special and helped me grow as both a rugby player and a person.

"I've met some of my best friends through playing at Bristol and I can't thank the club enough for the constant support and I wish them all the very best."