Jorja Aiono Re‑Sign with Gloucester‑Hartpury

Breakthrough Season for the Young Lock

Wales lock Jorja Aiono, a 19‑year‑old student at Hartpury University, enjoyed a breakout campaign in 2025‑26. The second‑row forward earned her first caps for the Welsh national side during the Six Nations tournament, marking a swift rise to the top level. Her club debut followed in June, when she stepped onto the pitch for Gloucester‑Hartpury in the Premiership Women’s Rugby competition.

The player’s performances have caught the eye of head of rugby Dan Murphy, who highlighted her athleticism and work rate. “She has all the attributes we’re looking for to add to our back five,” Murphy said, praising her composure on the international stage. Her development this year suggests there is still significant growth ahead for the talented youngster.

New Deal Secures Future at Gloucester‑Hartpury

Gloucester‑Hartpury announced that Aiono has signed a new contract to remain with the club, though the exact length was not disclosed. The signing reflects the club’s confidence in her potential to become a key player in the back five. It also underscores the club’s commitment to nurturing home‑grown talent within the women’s game.

For Aiono, the re‑sign marks a pivotal moment in her career, blending academic life at Hartpury with high‑level professional rugby. The club’s endorsement from Murphy signals that she will continue to develop alongside some of the premier talent in the Premiership. The agreement sets the stage for further achievements both domestically and for the Welsh national side.

The club’s investment in Aiono reflects a broader push to elevate women’s rugby in England, while her rise offers a blueprint for emerging players seeking to balance university study with elite competition.