We are thrilled to announce that Yorkshire born BBC Gladiator ‘Fury’ will be joining us in the shop, to meet fans and sign her new book, ‘Keep Smashing It: Be Strong, Be Brave, Be Confident.’ But there is so much more to this Gladiator!

Jodie Ounsley is a talented athlete, England rugby star, Paralympics Broadcaster, patron of registered charity The Elizabeth Foundation and star of the hit BBC show, Gladiators, performing as ‘Fury’, an inspirational role model for deaf people, and now an author too! In her debut book, Keep Smashing It: Be Strong, Be Brave, Be Confident. Jodie wants to show young people everywhere that anything is possible when you believe in yourself.

Josie is proud to be a role model to children – in sports and beyond – offering important representation to the deaf community. In her book she draws on her experience as a professional rugby player – a woman in a ‘man’s game’. She is showing young people the value of being a physically powerful and strong woman; just because you’re strong doesn’t mean you’re not feminine! She shares the importance of family and having a strong team around you and promotes getting girls into sport.

Originally from Yorkshire, Jodie was diagnosed as profoundly deaf at three months old and was one of the youngest recipients of a cochlear implant in the country. Her deafness has never held Jodie back. Her mental and physical grit saw her win the World Coal Carrying Championships at just four years old and as an adult she became the first deaf female to play for a senior England side. As ‘Fury’ she’s a ball of energy, a powerful Powerball-er and the toughest opponent the two female finalists ever faced.