Jerry Collins' legacy lives on as daughter signs first professional contract

After finishing her A-levels in English literature, PE and 3D design at Exeter College, Kerslake will link up with the Chiefs for pre-season this summer.

She started playing rugby at the age of 10 with Ilfracombe RFC before moving to Crediton to join the club's Under-15 side.

The daughter of All Blacks great Jerry Collins, Kerslake is a powerful player who has already earned international recognition, serving as England Under-18 co-captain while also stepping up to represent the England Under-21 squad.

She also helped Exeter College win the ACE Girls League title at Twickenham last year.

The teenager, whose father won 48 caps for New Zealand before his tragic death in 2015, has risen quickly through England's age-grade ranks and recently made the move from the Under-18 programme into the Under-21 setup.

Collins was playing club rugby for Narbonne in France when he and his partner died in a car accident almost 11 years ago. Kerslake, who was raised in North Devon, says his legacy has remained a major influence on her rugby career.

"His inspiration has been one of my biggest driving factors to play rugby," she said in May.

"My family in New Zealand still tell stories of everything that he brought to his community, on and off the pitch."

The 18-year-old has also praised her mother for helping her pursue rugby despite the limited opportunities for girls in her local area.

"My mum has been my biggest driver and has helped me get into different rugby environments, especially because of the lack of women's teams in my area," Kerslake explained.

"She comes to every game she can."

Kerslake previously captained England at Under-18 level before earning promotion to the Under-21 squad following this year's Six Nations Festival.

"It was really positive – all the girls wanted to learn and grow in the short space of time we had together," she said.

"For this tournament, my biggest aim is to get on the pitch."

Despite representing England, Kerslake admits her family's support still lies with the All Blacks because of her father's legacy.

"I had the black jersey on that day," she joked while recalling the 2022 Women's Rugby World Cup final between England and New Zealand.