England flanker Sam Underhill has made a name for himself with bone-crunching tackles and an unrelenting approach to rugby. His fierce physicality has defined a career spent at the pinnacle of the sport.
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A Star Emerges in Poland
Underhill’s talent was evident early on. Leading England U18 to the FIRA/AER European Championship title in Poland in 2014 was a pivotal moment. Captaining the side in three of their last five matches that year—twice against Wales and once against Ireland—he played a key role in England’s undefeated run.
From Twickenham to Santa Fe
Sam Underhill ‘s senior England journey began in May 2017 when he made his first appearance in a non-cap match against the Barbarians at Twickenham. His Test debut soon followed in Santa Fe, Argentina, where he put on a commanding performance that underscored his potential.
From Ohio to the Severn Bridge
Born in Dayton, Ohio, Underhill’s rugby journey is as diverse as his physical style. After making two appearances for Gloucester, he ventured across the Severn Bridge to join the Ospreys while studying at Cardiff University. His career took another leap in 2017 when he moved to Bath, and he was later a crucial member of the England squad that made it to the 2019 Rugby World Cup final.
Back in the England Fold
Despite missing out on tours to Australia and New Zealand, Underhill was called into Steve Borthwick’s squad for the 2023 Rugby World Cup after Jack Willis’s unfortunate injury. He returns to the England XV this weekend to take on South Africa, ready to make an impact once more.
The Apprentice Painter
Before professional rugby, Underhill’s career path looked very different. He shared a story from his early days with The Rugby Paper:
Sam Underhill said: “My grandad, Brian, was a painter and decorator, so I used to help him out during the summers when I was at school and as a student. As long as it’s unskilled I’m all right, but he didn’t pay very well—I certainly wasn’t on union rates!”
Even then, Underhill’s work ethic and humour were apparent, qualities that continue to define his game today.
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ENGLAND RUGBY WAGS’s
The proud Rugby WAGs who’ll cheer on England this Autumn – including model, clothing store owner and restauranteur
Katie George – Jamie George’s Partner in Life
Katie and Jamie George have been a power couple for years. The Saracens hooker wed Katie in 2020 after six years of dating, with teammate Elliot Daly standing as best man. Their love story is a strong one, showing a deep bond and unwavering support for each other.
Mimi Fall – Maro Itoje’s Fiancée
The towering Maro Itoje recently put a ring on it! The 30-year-old popped the question on a holiday to Nigeria, and his now-fiancée, Mimi Fall, said yes.
Known for being private, Maro shared the news with fans through Mimi’s Instagram, where England teammate Marcus Smith was quick to congratulate the happy couple.
Mimi is not only a model but also an artist, and she and Maro first met while modelling together.
Megan Slade – Henry Slade’s Wife and Businesswoman
Henry Slade and his wife, Megan, tied the knot in 2022, and they share two beautiful children.
Megan runs a children’s fashion line, Olive & Bud, known for high-quality basics with soft, earthy color palettes, co-founded with another new mum.
This Devon-based brand is gaining popularity, and Megan is as hands-on in her business as she is with her family.
Atdhetare Hoxha – George Ford’s Resilient Partner
England fly-half George Ford is riding high in life, not only on the field but also at home, with his wife Atdhetare and their new baby.
Atdhetare has an inspiring journey, arriving in the UK as a child refugee from Kosovo. Driven by passion, she opened her own Italian restaurant, Sorella, in Saddleworth in 2020, bringing her love for food to life after overcoming a challenging past.
Her resilience is a source of strength for George.
Beth Dolling – Marcus Smith’s Glamorous Girlfriend
The Harlequins fly-half Marcus Smith has been dating model and singer Beth Dolling since 2019, and the pair regularly give fans a glimpse into their romance on social media.
Beth, who’s worked with M MODELS MANAGEMENT and appeared in campaigns for PrettyLittleThing, has over 35,000 followers on Instagram.
She’s also an aspiring singer, sharing clips of her vocals on a separate Instagram account, described simply as “Just some girl that likes to sing.”
