The Ulsterwoman's pride was palpable as she recounted the moment she received the award for Most Valuable Player. "We all took such pride in wearing the jersey, and it was such a special thing to be given, especially since it was my teammates who voted for me. It made it even more special, and I’m so grateful for that," she said, touching on the camaraderie and respect among Niamh Briggs' squad.
A fifth-minute try in the 37-7 victory against Scotland on the final day of the series was just the icing on the cake for a set of bustling performances by the tighthead out in Italy.
As for her time in Parma, where Ireland played three matches across ten days, Sophie describes it as a memorable time. "I think all of the girls learned a lot from it. We are such a young squad, and it was really good for the young girls coming through to play international rugby. All of us gelled really well and became connected throughout the whole series," she says.
Ever the team player, the Enniskillen and Railway Union forward credits others for her individual success. "A big part was the coaches: they created an environment where we were professional rugby players," she explains. "It was important for the younger players to get a feel for what it’s like to be a professional rugby player. My teammates also played a massive role. They were so supportive, and we all really pushed each other.
"We wanted to compete against each other, putting each other in situations where we were under pressure to replicate game scenarios. This helped me perform the way I did."
Getting used to competing in the testing heat of northern Italy in summer was another challenge the team faced. "It was very hard to adapt to that, especially when you’re used to rainy weather back home. It was tough for the first two games, but by the third, we had adjusted to the heat."
Having previously participated in U18 age-grade festivals, Sophie describes the "massive step up" required for the Women’s Summer Series. "It was a different level. You are playing alongside people who are all pushing for the next level and want to make it professionally. It sets you up for senior rugby as you have that experience. The whole atmosphere and environment were very professional."
Sophie believes that the competition will have a lasting impact on the future of women's rugby across the Six Nations. "A lot of the young girls who play in the Under-20s will move into senior rugby," she reasons. "We are the next generation, and it’s opening doors for them. I learned a lot from the Under-20s, and I think I’m a better player now than before I went to the Women’s Summer Series."
