Bears Women announce eight departing players

Bristol Bears Women can confirm that eight players have departed the club following the conclusion of the 2024/25 season.

The legendary Amber Reed moves into a coaching role following her retirement from professional rugby after a 16-year career at the highest level, joining Head Coach Scott Lawson’s team as an Assistant Coach.

Red Roses fly-half Holly Aitchison has returned up north to join Sale Sharks, while scrum-half Lucy Burgess joins Harlequins after seven years as a Bear.

Welsh international Courtney Keight is another to join Sale Sharks after five seasons with the club, while back row Gabriella Nigrelli makes the move south to join Exeter Chiefs.

Also departing the club are flying wing Deborah Wills after two-and-a-half seasons in Bear Country and back row Helene Caux.

Finally, Bristolian prop Ellie Marston-Mulhearn departs the club after announcing her retirement from the professional game. The tighthead, a Bears centurion after nine seasons with the club, calls time on a stellar career for her hometown club.

General Manager, Daisie Mayes, said: “This is always a sad time of year when we wave goodbye to a number of players who have put their heart and soul into Bristol Bears Women during their time here.

“The commitment these girls put into their rugby, often as a dual career alongside other full-time employment, doesn’t go unnoticed and we are grateful for their contributions to Bristol Bears. We wish them the best of luck for the future.”

Departing players:

Amber Reed (retired – appointed Assistant Coach)

Holly Aitchison (Sale Sharks)

Courtney Keight (Sale Sharks)

Lucy Burgess (Harlequins)

Gabriella Nigrelli (Exeter Chiefs)

Ellie Marston-Mulhearn (retired)

Deborah Wills

Helene Caux