Wales starlet Jasmine Joyce joins Bears Women

The Welsh speedster – who was a member of the GB Women’s Sevens squad that came fourth at the Rio Olympics in 2016 - will link up with the Bears ahead of the 2020/21 Premier 15s season.

Joyce has represented her country on the international stage earning 17 caps in the 15-woman code of the game, as well as 7s rugby.

The 24-year-old will add plenty of firepower to the Bears’ backline having lit up the HSBC Sevens World Series over the last two years with her devastating turn of pace and sublime finishing ability.

“Jaz has proved that she is a world class operator on the biggest stages in international rugby and we’re delighted she’ll be a part of our squad next season”, said Oliver.

“She has the ability to finish from anywhere on the pitch, which makes her a huge threat going forward and over the last two years she’s worked tremendously hard on her defence to make her an all-round player.

“Having competed at the Olympics and the Commonwealth Games she knows what it takes to win at the highest level, which combined with her skillset and professionalism will help push others in the group to the next level.”

Joyce is returning to Bristol after a three-year absence, she last donned the blue and white hoops back in 2017 as a member of the squad that reached the Premiership final.

The winger then went on to represent Wales in Rugby Sevens at the 2018 Commonwealth Games in Australia, as well as earning call-ups to the women’s Barbarians FC squad to face USA and England.

“I’m so excited to be returning the Bristol and I’m looking forward to a new challenge down in the West Country”, said Joyce.

“I’m always wanting to improve my performance and I feel Bristol is the perfect place to do that as I’ll be surrounded by great people, great coaches and top-class facilities.

“I was a part of the Bristol family a few seasons ago and I loved every second of it, so I’m sure it’ll be another great season.”