How Rugby Changed My Life

This summer I switched teams from varsity soccer, a sport I had played for fifteen years, to varsity rugby, a sport I had never played before. I was both ecstatic and nervous. Nonetheless, I deep down knew that rugby would be a better fit for me. Throughout all the sports I have played in my life (gymnastics, snowboarding, swimming, lacrosse, and basketball to name a few), I was always the aggressive, self-sacrificing, and one of the most passionate players of the team. Sometimes it was a good thing, like when I would protect my players from sloppy opponents. Other times it was a bad thing, like when I would foul out of my basketball games. Playing rugby, I have never felt too aggressive or big. As one of the bigger players on my team, it is

my responsibility to focus my size and strength on the larger opponents in order to protect the ball and my smaller teammates. Another reason why I love rugby is the rugby community. I know that my teammates have my back; but, I also know that when I walk on the field, my opponents and I respect one another and the game we all enjoy. After twenty years of searching, I have finally found the sport for me. And now, I get to kick butt playing it alongside some of the most incredible women I have ever had the pleasure of knowing.