Lawyer dreaming of European rugby glory

Victoria Tomlinson, a senior associate at law firm Browne Jacobson will be taking part in the Seniors & Masters National Touch Rugby Tournament next month at the Riverside Sports Complex in Nottingham.

The tournament is effectively a trial for the England training squad teams ahead of the European Championships due to take place next July which will be hosted in Nottingham.

Earlier in the year, Tomlinson who is a member of the England women’s senior team enjoyed success at the ninth Touch World Cup hosted in Malaysia, bringing home a bronze medal.

Tomlinson works in the firm’s corporate finance team and is a member of the firm’s Touch Rugby team after having played the sport for almost 10 years.

She said: “Since taking part in a local touch league, I have had the opportunity to play for Nottingham, the Midlands and now on an international level for England which is a real privilege.

“I had never played rugby before. It’s a really fun sport and I like the inclusivity of it, as well as the social aspects.

“Preparation for both the World Cup and the European Championships involves months of intense training which includes a selection tournament, various trials and attending a number of England training camps.

“As an employer, Browne Jacobson has been very accommodating in allowing me to work flexibly in order to fit in this commitment and I really value that.”

Richard Cox, corporate finance partner at Browne Jacobson added: “We are delighted for Victoria and what she and the England team have achieved.

“Ensuring our people have a positive work life balance is really important to us and Victoria’s ability to fit such a big commitment around her work schedule and continue to deliver exceptional client service is inspiring.”

Team England is ranked third in the world, behind Australia and New Zealand.