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World Rugby announced the nominees for two of its most coveted individual awards for 2026: Women’s 15s Player of the Year and the Women’s 15s Breakthrough Player of the Year. All told, eight players from six nations have been identified as worthy recipients and standout performers this international season. Included in the “Breakthrough” shortlist is Bella Vogel, the USA Rugby Women’s National Team flyhalf/center with the golden boot. [lead photo: Alex Ho @hoiho_photo]
The winners of both awards will be revealed this weekend, with trophies presented following the players’ final WXV Global Series matches.
This year’s Breakthrough shortlist features four players from Australia, France, New Zealand and USA, all of whom represent the exciting next generation of rugby around the globe (read the full release). All four nominees are in their debut year with their respective national teams:
• Pauline Barrat (France)
An exciting emerging talent in French rugby, Barrat has made a strong impression with her attacking instincts and confident performances on the international stage. Named Women’s Six Nations Breakthrough Player of the Tournament in 2026, she has quickly established herself as one of France’s most promising young players.
• Elinor-Plum King (New Zealand)
An impressive addition to the Black Ferns’ forward pack, King has caught the eye with her physicality, defensive work and presence at the breakdown. The openside flanker has shown maturity beyond her experience, establishing herself as an exciting prospect in New Zealand’s back row.
• Amelia Whitaker (Australia)
An exciting attacking talent, Whitaker has made her mark on the international stage with her pace, finishing ability and willingness to take on defenders. The Wallaroos winger has continued to grow in confidence throughout the WXV Global Series, including crossing for a try against Scotland.
• Bella Vogel (USA)
One of the emerging talents for the Women’s Eagles, Vogel has earned recognition for her performances on the international stage in 2026. Her inclusion on the shortlist reflects her growing influence and potential as part of the next generation of American rugby talent.
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Vogel first hit the rugby radar while starring for Knightmare in Rugby Pennsylvania and gained loads of experience through select side opportunities in both 7s and 15s at the state, regional and USA Pathways levels. While a freshman at Life University, the still-19-year-old made her Eagle debut on April 11, 2026, against New Zealand, and kicked five points on a conversion and penalty against the Black Ferns. Since then, the flyhalf and center has amassed another eight caps against Australia, Canada, South Africa (2), Ireland, Wales and Italy (2), with one more opportunity against England this Friday in New Jersey.
Across those nine appearances, Vogel has kicked 68 points on 31 conversions and two penalties. But it’s also worth noting that Vogel is banked a lot of international game time outside of official USA test matches. For example, she was also part of the wildly successful USA U20 tour to South Africa (which followed the Women’s National Team’s tour against the Springboks) as well as the USA Falcons’ trip to Brazil in August. She’s also gets reps at Chula Vista during the 7s training season and of course is an active Life University student-athlete. Vogel’s game is getting work from all angles.
