From Switzerland to Worthing College: Tabea Aiming to Make an Impact in the Rugby World

Worthing College’s reputation for elite rugby is attracting talent from Europe with Swiss player Tabea Sendall joining as she follows her goal of playing at the highest level. 

Studying A Levels in Biology, Maths and PE, Tabea has quickly settled into college life and has already made an impact on the pitch.

The talented teenager, who has represented her country at Under 18s level, played two pre-season matches and recently made her league debut for the Girls Rugby Team team against Exeter College, playing the full game.

Tabea visited Worthing College last year with her father and said: “We really liked Worthing because we got a really warm welcome. Mark (Rugman) and the team were really nice and welcoming. Also, the level of rugby is amazing. So Worthing was our first choice.”

After playing for five years in her homeland, Tabea decided to come to England with the aim of one day playing for Harlequins who the college has a partnership programme through The Harlequins Women – Worthing College Rugby Academy.

Tabea started playing aged 11 as her brother was playing in a local team back home where their father was a coach. She ultimately wants to play for New Zealand’s Black Ferns as her father is a Kiwi.

“I gave it a try, and I really liked it,” said Tabea. “I was playing mixed (boys and girls) for a local team, I was playing girls only for a Geneva team in the French league, and I was playing for the Swiss national team for my age group.

“I love the tactical aspects of rugby. I don’t really mind where I play on the field. I am currently playing 12, but I am pretty comfortable in most positions, except the front row and nine.”

Asked how she was settling into life in Worthing, Tabea said: “I’m loving it. It’s unique, at least for me, to be able to combine rugby and school in one place.”

She added: “I played the full game at Exeter and playing with the team was a good experience. It was the highest level I have played at so far, so it was a good introduction to the game here.

“I’ve made good friends already and we recently went to Twickenham to watch New Zealand against England. One day, I hope to be back at Twickenham playing for the Black Ferns.” 

Worthing College’s Head of Rugby, Mark Rugman, said: “Tabby first came over from Switzerland to trial with us last October and impressed us straight away.

“Having already played a year up for Switzerland U18s and reached the 2026 European U18 final, she arrived with some great experience behind her.

“She made her Worthing debut against Exeter last Wednesday and has made a fantastic start to life with the programme. She’s an ambitious young player, and we’re really excited to support her development and her long-term goal of becoming a Black Fern.”