Zoe Harrison awarded honorary degree by Middlesex University
England rugby star and Saracens player honoured by her alma mater for sporting achievements.
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Named sources (Zoe Harrison, university vice-chancellor) and specific date give moderate corroboration.
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From the archive. This story was written up on 29 July 2026 from reporting first published on 26 June 2026, which is the date shown above. We took up the back catalogue of the local titles we read when this site launched, so the events are older than the page.
England rugby star Zoe Harrison has been awarded an honorary degree from Middlesex University in Hendon. The honour was presented during Graduation Week 2026 on June 25, recognising her significant sporting achievements.
Ms Harrison, who plays for the Hendon-based Saracens Rugby Club, is an alumna of Middlesex University. She has earned over 60 international caps for England and was a pivotal player in the team's victory at the 2025 Rugby World Cup. In that final, she contributed to a 33-13 win against Canada by converting four tries. The match itself set a record, becoming the most-watched women's rugby game in history. Ms Harrison also played a crucial part in England securing the 2026 Women's Six Nations Championship title.
A Personal Honour
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Speaking about the award, Ms Harrison described it as an "incredible honour" that holds deep personal significance. She highlighted the special connection to Middlesex University, having studied there previously. Ms Harrison stated that the recognition reflects "years of hard work, resilience, learning and the support of so many people around me," extending beyond her on-pitch success.
Her degree in Sports Rehabilitation and Exercise from Middlesex University demonstrates her capacity to manage both academic and athletic pursuits. Ms Harrison noted that the university provided a supportive environment, enabling her to balance elite sport with her studies and equipping her with valuable skills and experiences.
“Having studied at Middlesex, it feels especially special to be recognised by a university that played an important role in my own journey.”
Zoe Harrison, England Rugby Star
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University Recognition
Professor Shân Wareing, vice-chancellor of Middlesex University, expressed delight in honouring distinguished individuals for their contributions across various fields. The university recognised Ms Harrison alongside others for their inspiring work in areas including the creative arts, law, business, disability awareness, diversity and inclusion, patient advocacy, mental health, education, and charity work.
Beyond her playing career, Ms Harrison is noted for her efforts to encourage young people, particularly women and girls, to engage in sport and strive for excellence.
Questions this report answers
+Who is Zoe Harrison?
Zoe Harrison is an England rugby star and Saracens player who has earned over 60 international caps for England. She was pivotal in England's 2025 Rugby World Cup victory and the 2026 Women's Six Nations Championship title.
+What did Middlesex University honour Zoe Harrison for?
Middlesex University honoured Zoe Harrison for her significant sporting achievements, including her role in England's 2025 Rugby World Cup win and her contributions to women's rugby. The award also recognised her academic background in Sports Rehabilitation and Exercise.
+When was Zoe Harrison awarded her honorary degree?
Zoe Harrison was awarded her honorary degree during Middlesex University's Graduation Week 2026 on June 25. The ceremony took place at the university's Hendon campus.
+What did Zoe Harrison say about the award?
Zoe Harrison called the award an 'incredible honour' and highlighted its personal significance, noting it reflects years of hard work and the support of many people. She also emphasised the university's role in her journey.
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