Oliver happy to secure services of Welsh cohort

Friday, June 5th 2020

Kim Oliver is delighted that Elinor Snowsill, Siwan Lillicrap, Keria Bevan, Manon Johnes, Lauren Smyth and Caryl Thomas have all signed new contracts ahead of the 2020/21 Premier 15s season.

Having announced the re-signings of four Red Roses’ internationals earlier this week, Kim Oliver has now retained all 10 international players from the 2019/20 playing pool.

Bristol Bears Women Head Coach, Kim Oliver, said: “It’s fantastic that all six talented internationals have committed to the club ahead of the new season.

“Whilst we didn’t get to see this group in a Bears shirt as much as we would have liked last season, we know how much heart, talent and leadership this group possesses and the difference they can make to the club.”

Elinor Snowsill

“Snowy is a huge attacking threat for us pulling the strings very efficiently in the fly-half channels and has done throughout her eight years at the club.

“Her game management and understanding is top tier, and with over 50 caps for her country she brings a great level of experience in a pivotal position.”

Siwan Lillicrap

“Siwan is a born leader and to have the honour of captaining her country on the biggest stage speaks volumes about the type of player she is.

“Her work rate around the park is second to none making big hits in the defensive line as well as not shying away from the big carries - her ball skills also provide us with a great link between the forwards and backs.”

Keira Bevan

“Keira made an immediate impact in the games she played last season, she’s a huge threat around the breakdown and her delivery is second to none.

“She’s a very level headed scrum-half at a young age with bags of talent as well as the toughness and tenacity to match.”

Lauren Smyth

“Lauren is an evasive back three player with the ability to provide a spark at any given moment with her devastating footwork making her a big attacking threat.

“Her spacial awareness on the field and her ability under the high ball makes her well-rounded back three player.”

Manon Johnes

“Manon is one of many very talented back row to come out of Wales and she certainly has a bright future ahead of her.

“She’s all over the park throughout the eighty minutes bringing a great intensity to the defensive line with her dominant tackling.

Caryl Thomas

“Caryl is a big figure in the club and a huge motivator for the girls. She has a real passion for the game and our club, and that is evident to se in her work both on and off the field.

“With over 50 caps for her country she brings bags of international experience and gives us great depth to our front row options.”