From dentistry to the Premiership

After graduating from King’s, Elizabeth Crake went on to play professionally in Premiership Women’s Rugby (PWR) and now balances two demanding careers. In April 2026, she was called up to the England Red Roses squad for the Women's Six Nations.

Memorable moments at King’s

Looking back on her time at King’s, Elizabeth remembers both the big moments and the everyday ones.

‘One of my favourite memories was playing in the varsity rugby match. Representing the University was such a special experience. But I also really enjoyed the time spent on clinics with my classmates, learning together and having fun along the way.’

Finding confidence through sport

Elizabeth’s journey into rugby began long before university.

‘I started playing when rugby was introduced at school and immediately loved it. I was drawn to how competitive it was, but also how much confidence it gave me. It pushed me to challenge myself and grow, both on and off the pitch.’

That early experience laid the foundation for a sporting career that would eventually run alongside her professional path in dentistry.

Managing life between the clinic and the pitch

Today, Elizabeth plays rugby in the PWR while working as a clinical lecturer at the University of Bristol. Managing both roles requires constant juggling.

‘It’s definitely challenging. Rugby is becoming increasingly professional and demands more time than when I first started playing in the Premiership. Because of that, I’ve had to make some sacrifices in my dentistry career.’

Grabbing the opportunities when you can

Despite the challenges, Elizabeth sees this stage of her life as a rare opportunity.

‘Dentistry will always be a part of my life and hopefully I’ll be practising for the next 20 or 30 years. But elite sport has a much shorter window. Realistically, I might only have another five years at this level if I’m lucky, so I want to give it everything while I can.’

Taking life as it comes

For now, Elizabeth isn’t focused on mapping out a detailed long-term plan.

‘Honestly, I don’t really know what’s next. I’m concentrating on enjoying the next few seasons of rugby and seeing where things go from there.

‘I’ve never been someone with a strict five-year plan, but I would like to get more involved in undergraduate teaching. That’s something I’ve really enjoyed so far.’

One piece of advice

For graduates looking to make an impact, Elizabeth believes success starts with character.

‘Focus on being a good person and the rest will take care of itself. The person you become while chasing your goals is just as important as the goals themselves.’