Heather Leung & Micah Chapman

Introduction

In the realm of sports, the significance of community cannot be overstated. It serves as a cornerstone in fostering camaraderie, support, and personal growth among individuals. One shining example of such a community can be found within the UW Women’s Rugby team. This team stands out for its unwavering commitment to inclusivity, welcoming individuals from diverse backgrounds and varying skill levels with open arms. What sets this team apart is its unique characteristic of allowing newcomers to join at any time, regardless of their prior experience or knowledge of the sport.

Remarkably, out of the team’s 50 members, only two had previous experience with rugby, making the majority of the team embarking on a thrilling journey of discovery and growth. This creates an environment where everyone, regardless of their starting point, is on a level playing field, fostering a sense of equality and shared experiences.

The UW Women’s Rugby team exemplifies the transformative power of community in sports. Despite the varied backgrounds and skill levels, a deep sense of camaraderie binds the team together. Within this supportive environment, each member is encouraged to push their boundaries, challenge themselves, and embrace personal growth. The spirit of community extends beyond the field as the team members forge lasting friendships and create a support system that uplifts and motivates one another.

The love for the game is palpable within the team, with each member driven by their shared passion for rugby. This collective enthusiasm and dedication create a vibrant and dynamic atmosphere where every player is empowered to contribute and thrive. Through the ups and downs of training, competitions, and team activities, the UW Women’s Rugby team stands as a testament to the enduring power of community in sports.

Regardless of one’s starting point or previous experience, the UW Women’s Rugby team embodies the idea that what truly matters is the willingness to learn, grow, and embrace the journey together. This highlights the incredible impact that a nurturing and inclusive community can have on individuals, transcending the boundaries of skill level and background. The spirit of community within the UW Women’s Rugby team serves as an inspiration and a reminder that when individuals come together with a shared purpose, the possibilities for personal and collective achievement are boundless.

Testimonials

During the interview, I noticed a striking similarity between my own experience of joining a sport and what the player shared about rugby. The rugby community fosters a strong sense of togetherness, making it easy to form friendships that have a significant impact on each individual. What particularly resonated with me was her emphasis on inclusivity within the sport, regardless of factors such as sexuality, size, gender, or age. This stood out because many sports can be heavily gendered and have high barriers to entry for certain individuals. Through Captain’s passionate words, body language, and facial expressions, I could truly sense their love and dedication for rugby.

Conducting interviews with rugby teammates was a fascinating experience, despite being familiar with some of their responses beforehand. However, there were aspects that I hadn’t been aware of until now, particularly concerning the profound significance of the team in their lives. While I am personally aware of the impact the team and the sport have had on me, I sometimes overlook the fact that it holds the same level of importance for others as well.

Rugby is an extracurricular activity within the collegiate way.

Similar to thick institution, within the context of the team, there may be specific customs and rituals that reflect their unique culture. For example, the UW Women’s Rugby team may have a particular chant that they perform, such as the chant “psych, psych your mama rides a bike in the middle of the night without a flashlight.” This chant serves as a rallying cry, fostering team spirit and camaraderie.

Additionally, the team has post-game dinner celebrations. These gatherings provide an opportunity for team members to come together, reflect on their performance, and celebrate their achievements. Sharing a meal allows the team to bond further and strengthen their connections, reinforcing their sense of unity and shared goals.

The environment and location of the IMA field have a crucial impact on the UW women’s rugby team. The field provides a dedicated training space where the team can focus on improving their skills and tactics. Its safety and accessibility make it convenient for regular practice sessions while also minimizing the risk of injuries. The field acts as a central gathering place, promoting team cohesion and a sense of identity. Familiarity with the field gives the team a home advantage, boosting their confidence during matches. Additionally, the field’s location encourages fan engagement and support, creating a sense of community and motivation for the players. Overall, the IMA field plays a vital role in the team’s development, performance, and success.

Recent accomplishment as a UW Women’s Rugby

• Pacific Mountain Rugby Conference Semi-finalists 2022, 2023
• Pacific Mountain Rugby Conference North Champions 2022

ChatGPT Disclaimer: We used ChatGPT to help us describe the experience on a team in a scholarly writing style.

Sources:

Eddy, J., & Couto, C. (2019, February 7). Culture of care: UW women’s rugby’s sense of community. The Daily of the University of Washington. Retrieved April 13, 2023, from https://www.dailyuw.com/sports/culture-of-care-uw-women-s-rugby-s-sense-of-community/article_0c84c4d4-265b-11e9-9f1f-5f4b3ef3524d.html