Bristol Bears challenge for ex-Biggar star Emma Orr

Scotland centre Emma Orr will play for Bristol Bears in next season’s Premiership Women’s Rugby.

The 21-year-old former Biggar Ladies’ star, who is from the South Lanarkshire town, admits it was difficult to leave home, but wanted to challenge herself at a higher level, having played for Heriot’s in the Scottish Premiership last season.

She also played for Edinburgh during the Celtic Challenge this year.

Orr, who has made 19 Scotland appearances, scoring four tries, since April 2022, will link up with fellow Scots Elliann Clarke, Lana Skeldon, Evie Gallagher and Meryl Smith in Bristol.

And she said: “Leaving home was a huge decision, but I really wanted to try playing in a new league and develop as a person, as well as a player.

“I have been really impressed by the facilities and staff at Bristol Bears and can’t wait to challenge myself in a new environment.

“It’s quite an important year, in terms of the World Cup next summer, so the main goal is to push myself and train with some of the best players in the world, and to play in this league is going to be so exciting.

“I’m looking to better myself as a player on the pitch. Just becoming the best player I can be.”

Bears head coach Dave Ward said: “Emma is an exceptional talent who has shone on the international stage over the last two years. She is someone who we have watched and admired for a while, and we are delighted that she has agreed to join the Bears.

“We know she will add competition to an incredibly competitive area of our team, and we are very excited to see her in a Bears shirt.”

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