Rosie Galligan: The Inspiring Journey of England’s Red Rose #233

Who Is Rosie Galligan?

Rosie Galligan is a celebrated English rugby union player, renowned for her resilience, athleticism, and leadership both on and off the pitch. A key figure for Saracens RFC and the England Women’s National Rugby Union Team (the Red Roses), she has become an emblem of perseverance in the face of adversity.

Born on 30 April 1998 in Finchley, London, Rosie Jemima Galligan’s rise to prominence in women’s rugby is a story of talent, determination, and overcoming extraordinary setbacks. Today, she stands as one of England’s most respected rugby locks, combining technical power with a strong commitment to advocacy and mentorship.

Early Life and Education — Rosie Galligan Age

Childhood and School Background

Rosie Galligan, aged 27, was raised in Kent, where her passion for sport was nurtured from an early age. She attended Maidstone Grammar School for Girls, where she excelled not only academically but also as Sports Captain. Her sporting prowess extended beyond rugby; she represented Kent County in hockey and cricket, demonstrating a natural aptitude for teamwork and competitive sports from a young age.

Higher Education and University Life

After completing her A Levels in Psychology, Geography, and Physical Education with top grades (A, A, A**), Rosie pursued a BSc in Sports Management. She began at Loughborough University (2016–2019), one of the UK’s elite sporting institutions, before transferring to St Mary’s University, Twickenham (2019–2020) to further her rugby ambitions alongside academic goals.

Family Background — Parents and Siblings

Rosie Galligan was born into a close-knit, sport-oriented family. Her father, Tim Galligan, is a rugby coach at Aylesford RFC, while her mother, Holly Galligan, captained England Under-21 hockey during her youth. This environment of athletic encouragement clearly shaped Rosie’s early dedication to sport.

She has two brothers — Henry and Charlie Galligan — and a sister who resides in Canada. Her older brother Henry famously launched Project Tangerine, a fundraising campaign for Meningitis Now, in tribute to Rosie’s recovery from the illness in 2019. The Galligan family’s enduring support has been instrumental throughout her career and recovery.

Rosie Galligan’s Rugby Career

Early Steps in Rugby

Rosie’s rugby journey began at Aylesford Bulls RFC, a club known for developing women’s talent. Her combination of height, power, and tactical awareness quickly set her apart as a promising lock forward.

Rise with Saracens RFC

In 2015, at just 17, Rosie joined Saracens Women, marking the start of a decade-long relationship with one of England’s most successful women’s rugby clubs. Her powerful performances in the line-out and defensive phases helped Saracens claim multiple Tyrrells Premier 15s Championships, earning her two national titles by 2019.

Between 2021 and 2023, she played for Harlequins Women before returning to Saracens RFC in 2023. Her leadership, professionalism, and relentless spirit made her a role model for younger players and fans alike.

England Red Roses #233

Rosie made her England senior debut during the 2019 Women’s Six Nations, coming off the bench against Ireland. Her international number, Red Rose #233, signifies her permanent place in England Rugby history.

However, her journey was not without challenges. In 2019, she contracted meningitis, a life-threatening illness, and in 2020 suffered a broken leg, broken ankle, and three ruptured ligaments after a fall in a line-out. Remarkably, she fought back through months of rehabilitation, earning selection for the delayed 2021 Rugby World Cup (New Zealand, 2022) — a testament to her strength and resilience.

Rosie Galligan Height, Weight and Physical Profile

Rosie’s athletic build and power make her a formidable presence in the second row.

Her physique supports her key strengths — dominance in the line-out, physical tackles, and scrummage power — making her indispensable to both club and country.

Professional Experience and Beyond Rugby

Rosie Galligan’s career extends beyond playing. Her professional roles include Marketing and Communications Lead at the Herts Sport and Physical Activity Partnership, Marketing Manager at The Women’s Sports Alliance, and Sports and Marketing Assistant at Belmont Mill Hill Prep School.

She also coaches at Saracens Camps, where she mentors young players. These experiences demonstrate her commitment to empowering women in sport, not just through performance but through visibility and leadership.

Rosie Galligan Partner — Marlie Packer

Marlie Packer Rosie Galligan Relationship

Rosie Galligan is in a relationship with Marlie Packer, her teammate from both Saracens and the England Red Roses. The two athletes, known for their professionalism and mutual support, announced their engagement in June 2025 through heartfelt Instagram posts captioned “The easiest yes in the world. Forever and always.”

Their relationship has been publicly celebrated by fans and teammates alike, symbolising openness and inclusion within women’s sport.

Marlie Packer Rosie Galligan Son

Marlie Packer is also a devoted mother to her young son, Oliver, from a previous relationship. Rosie frequently appears alongside Marlie and Oliver in social-media posts, reflecting a warm and supportive family bond. Their shared love for sport and family life has made them one of rugby’s most admired couples.

Is Rosie Galligan Married?

As of late 2025, Rosie Galligan and Marlie Packer are engaged but not yet married. Neither has announced wedding plans publicly, preferring to keep details of their personal life private while continuing their rugby careers.

Awards and Honours

Rosie’s achievements highlight both her individual excellence and her contribution to team success:

• England Rugby International Cap – First appearance in 2019 vs Ireland.

• Six Nations Champion (2019).

• Double Tyrrells Premiership Champion with Saracens (2018 and 2019).

• World Cup Representative (2021 Tournament played in 2022).

Her comeback from illness and injury earned her respect across global rugby communities.

Advocacy and Ambassadorships

Rosie Galligan’s story has inspired many beyond sport. She is a proud Ambassador for:

• Meningitis Now, supporting awareness and survivors.

• Boobydoo Bras, promoting comfort and confidence for female athletes.

• PTI Education, focusing on sports education.

• Walter Cooper, her principal sponsor.

Through these roles, Rosie uses her platform to advance conversations on women’s health, athlete welfare, and equality in sport.

Personality and Public Presence

Rosie maintains a vibrant presence on social media:

• Instagram (@rosie_galligan) — 23 k followers; shares training insights, advocacy work, and glimpses of personal life.

• Twitter (@rosie_galligan) — regularly interacts with fans and fellow players.

• LinkedIn — showcases her dual career in rugby and sports marketing.

Her authenticity and positive voice make her one of the most relatable figures in English women’s rugby.

Challenges and Resilience

Rosie’s career has been marked by challenges that define her character. Surviving meningitis in 2019 was a turning point that deepened her resilience and empathy. Recovering from a severe leg injury in 2020 further proved her mental toughness. These experiences not only shaped her as an athlete but also as an advocate for health awareness and emotional strength.

Rosie Galligan’s Legacy and Impact

Rosie Galligan’s influence extends far beyond the rugby field. She embodies the values of courage, inclusivity, and determination that inspire both aspiring athletes and everyday fans. Her journey from a young girl in Kent to a Red Rose star is a blueprint for perseverance.

Whether she’s dominating line-outs for Saracens, representing England on the international stage, or championing awareness causes, Rosie’s example continues to elevate women’s rugby.

FAQs

1. Who is Rosie Galligan?

Rosie Jemima Galligan is a professional English rugby union player, currently representing Saracens RFC and the England Women’s National Team (Red Roses). She plays as a lock (second row) and is known as Red Rose #233.

2. How old is Rosie Galligan and where was she born?

Rosie Galligan was born on 30 April 1998 in Finchley, London, United Kingdom, which makes her 27 years old (as of 2025).

3. Who is Rosie Galligan’s partner — is she married?

Rosie Galligan is engaged to her teammate and fellow England international Marlie Packer. The couple announced their engagement in June 2025. They are not married yet but share a close family bond with Marlie’s young son, Oliver.

4. What is Rosie Galligan’s height and weight?

Rosie Galligan stands 1.75 metres (5 ft 9 in) tall and weighs approximately 85 kilograms (187 lb / 13 st 5 lb) — an ideal build for her position in the scrum and line-out.

5. Who are Rosie Galligan’s parents and siblings?

Her parents are Tim Galligan, a rugby coach, and Holly Galligan, a former England U21 hockey captain. Rosie has two brothers — Henry and Charlie Galligan — and a sister who lives in Canada. The family has been central to her success, supporting her through illness and injury recovery.

6. How old is Rosie Galligan exactly?

Rosie Jemima Galligan was born on 30 April 1998, which makes her 27 years old as of November 2025.

Conclusion — A Red Rose Who Blooms Through Adversity

At 27 years old, Rosie Galligan stands as more than just a professional rugby player — she is a role model for resilience, authenticity, and leadership. Her story captures the heart of modern sport: the balance between elite performance and human spirit.

From her academic achievements and family roots to her relationship with Marlie Packer and her role as a proud Red Rose #233, Rosie’s life reflects dedication, unity, and inspiration.

Her best chapters, both on the field and in life, are still being written — and every fan of women’s rugby will be watching as Rosie Galligan continues to thrive.

NewsDip.co.uk