Nicole Rogers, a rising star in the world of bowls, has rapidly ascended the ranks of the sport since her introduction to indoor bowls in 2006. Born in England in 1998, Rogers’s journey began at the Loddon Vale Indoor Bowling Club, where her parents also played. Joining the junior sessions ignited a passion that quickly blossomed into a remarkable career, highlighted by numerous national and international titles. Rogers’s ambition extends beyond personal achievement; she envisions a future where bowls becomes a professional sport, allowing athletes to dedicate themselves fully and make a living from their passion. This drive, coupled with her natural talent, makes her a force to be reckoned with on the bowling green.
Rogers’s competitive spirit extends beyond the bowling alley. Her active lifestyle includes netball, swimming, skiing, and regular gym workouts, reflecting a dedication to physical fitness and a well-rounded approach to life. This diverse range of interests suggests a balanced personality, allowing her to excel in her chosen sport while maintaining a healthy perspective. Even her choice of karaoke song, Sunflower by Post Malone and Swae Lee, hints at a positive and vibrant personality, adding another dimension to the portrait of this accomplished athlete.
Rogers’s career trajectory is marked by a series of impressive achievements. A defining moment came in 2018 when she clinched the WIBC World Indoor U25 Singles title, solidifying her status as a rising star. This early success foreshadowed a consistent string of strong performances, including reaching the semi-finals of the women’s singles at the World Indoor Bowls Championship in 2020 and again in 2023. Her national accomplishments are equally noteworthy, winning the English Under 25 title and the British Under 25 title in 2020. Further demonstrating her versatility and team spirit, Rogers partnered with Sophie Tolchard and Harriet Stevens to secure the triples title at the 2023 Bowls England National Finals, a testament to her ability to thrive in both individual and team competitions.
The trajectory of Rogers’s success continued into 2023 and 2024, showcasing her consistency and dedication to the sport. In 2023, she secured a silver medal in the pairs event at the Hong Kong International Bowls Classic alongside Harriet Stevens, further solidifying her presence on the international stage. Her winning streak continued into 2024, with victories in the triples at the British Isles Bowls Championships and a gold medal in the pairs, again with Stevens, at the European Bowls Championships. These achievements highlight not only her individual prowess but also her ability to forge successful partnerships, a crucial element in team-based competitions.
Rogers’s commitment to representing England on the international stage is evident in her participation in various prestigious tournaments. Her involvement in the British Isles Series in Ayr, Scotland, and the Hong Kong International Bowls Classic demonstrates her dedication to competing at the highest level. Her silver medal at the latter event further underscores her ability to perform under pressure and contribute significantly to the national team. These international experiences not only add to her impressive list of accomplishments but also provide invaluable exposure and opportunities for growth, further honing her skills and solidifying her reputation as a formidable competitor.
The equipment plays a significant role in any athlete’s performance, and for Rogers, her Taylor bowls have been integral to her success. Having inherited her first set from her grandfather, the Taylor Vector VS’s hold sentimental value and have proven to be a winning combination. Rogers’s long-standing relationship with the brand speaks volumes about the comfort and confidence she derives from using these particular bowls. Her statement that she “immediately got on with them” and has been using them ever since, even winning a world title with them, emphasizes the importance of finding the right equipment that complements one’s style and technique. This connection between athlete and equipment adds another layer to Rogers’s story, highlighting the influence of seemingly small details on the path to success.
