Hello everyone! My name is Karlla, I was recently included in the group of contributors of this blog. I’m here to talk about women’s rugby in the country that will host the Olympic Games of 2016: my country - Brazil!

I was wondering how to start my activities, so I thought I’d start at the beginning, of how people approach me in tournaments, or when they find out I play rugby and I’m from Brazil. I understand, is not every day that is a Brazilian on a rugby field in New York. People always ask me these questions: Is there rugby in Brazil? People only play soccer in Brazil? Do you dance samba? The first two questions, obvious and a little scary, I try to answer with my bad English ”Of course yes! Despite little popular support in Brazil, where the media has eyes only for the men’s soccer, rugby is the sport today growing more in my country. Just as happened with the volleyball, we have an enormous potential for the future. ” And in this climate of samba and rugby, we overcome some cultural barriers.

So from now on I will show you the real Brazil, our Rugby and our culture. Then in 2016 you will have the feeling when the eyes of the world will be on Rio de Janeiro.

after our 7 hour bus ride, we safely arrived in smoky las vegas! i’m happy i took in a few extra breaths of oxygen back in california because there’s not a whole lot to spare out here. we’re stuck in a hotel that fines for smoking in the rooms, but passes out ashtrays once you step into the hall.

our first duty upon arriving was to jump in the pool and loosen our muscles a bit. as we walked past the man smoking something that was not a cigarette we climbed into the icy water and tried to move around. this pool was colder than the ice plunge at the otc!(no complaints–”if you’re in a cold pool it’s still water, so enjoy the water”)

of few of us played phase 10 after dinner–amy naber rocked us, but i’m ready for a comeback tonight! unlikely. after reading Open for about an hour i called it a night. as i awoke with a slightly sore back, but a rested mind, im ready to take on the chilly day and our 2 training sessions.

from Rugby Wrapup:

A perennial Team USA Eagle, Phaidra Knight is one of the most recognized names in women’s rugby. Today, she chats with fellow Team USA Legend, Blair Groefsema.

Blair

PK: Blair, I have to open by saying there was no way I was going to miss out on talking to you this week. What all are you up to these days?
Blair: Holla at a playa! Well Phai, life with me is awesome. I got engaged to the love of my life in February so we have been busy planning our wedding. Also, my sister and her hubby had a beautiful baby in March so that has been fun watching her grow….hopefully she will turn out just like me =) and I am also still working at the same high school in SF ( If you need a visual, think Michelle Pfeiffer in Dangerous Minds). Life is good.

PK: Where did you grow up and who was your childhood hero? What sports did you play in high school? College?
Blair: I am from the beautiful city of Bakersfield, California. Some refer to it as the armpit of California, but I don’t let those haters bring me down. I have much love for my hometown and the simple life! In high school, I was a complete jock and played volleyball, basketball, and softball. My sister was my childhood hero, but I also so badly wanted to be like the character Buffy in the show Buffy the Vampire Slayer…that girl rocked it! My first year in college, I decided to quit playing sports because I was so burned out, and instead, I joined theDelta Gamma Sorority. Even though I had a blast with those girls and I loved going to the theme parties, I knew I needed to find something active to keep me sane. My dad had played rugby for 14 years, so he encouraged my older sister and I to go out. After the first practice, I was hooked…not just because of the amazing sport, but the amazing girls that were on the team. My beautiful ruggers of UCSB are so special… Plus, Rugby People in general are just bomb.

PK: I understand that you love to go for runs in your ‘hood?
Blair: Yes, Phai. I enjoy jogging outside as it relaxes me.
PK: I see. And have you ever gone for a run and while on it, had the misfortune of mistaking your house for someone else’s?
Blair: Hmmm… ya know… I don’t really recall.
PK: Interesting. You know Blair, I’m going to just let that little story remain private property of the 2010 World Cup Team. Deal?
Blair: Deal. (Sigh of relief)

PK: Alrighty then. Moving on… When you started playing rugby, did you ever imagine you would play in a World Cup?

Blair: Ha, never did I think that. I knew I loved the game, but there were so many other things in life that I enjoyed doing: Going out with my friends, spending time with my fam, dancing, enjoying delicious beverages, sleeping-in on weekends, eating whatever I wanted, and shopping. I just didn’t want to give any of that up. Also, I knew I would have to work harder than I had ever worked before, and I wasn’t sure this was something I really wanted to do or could do.

PK: What has been your best tour with the USA?
Blair: This is a tough one. Even though this tour was awful because we were in ugly, snowy England, and everyone got sick and was puking, it would have to be my first Tour in Dec. 2007. England dominated us the whole game, but despite how bad we were losing, this was the first time I had confidence in myself and I felt all the hard work I had put in paid off. The score wasn’t close, but after playing them, I just KNEW we had the potential of beating them… and ultimately being the best in the world.

PK: What was training like leading up to the 2010 Rugby World Cup? Nutrition?
Blair: Training was hard. Because we all work full-time jobs, most of us would have to get up at 4:45 am to lift before work, then go to work all day, then do a mini sprint workout before practice, and then practice for 2 hours, then come home and stuff my face with whatever was available, and then go to bed only to wake up and do it all over again. I had no social life, had limited time with non-rugby friends and family, and I missed out on a lot of special events such as weddings and birthdays. What kept me going was knowing that each one of my teammates was putting the same effort and commitment into this team that I was, and I wanted to be not only the best #8 in my country, but the best #8 in the world. I also felt that I was so honored to be given this opportunity to play and represent my country, and I felt like I owed it to all the women who had ever worn aUSA jersey, as well as all the women who would do anything to wear one… I definitely struggled with nutrition – I LOVE Taco Bell, Donuts, Cookie Dough, and anything sweet. I used to just eat what I wanted, but realized I needed to change my ways to be the best athlete that I could be. That was really, really hard, and probably my biggest struggle. I tried to add vegetables and fruits to my diet, and added a lot more protein.

Looks Like Jane, Hits Like Tarzan

PK: Are you currently playing with the USA? Do you plan to give it a go for another World Cup?
Blair: No, I am not currently playing for the USA and I have actually taken a break from rugby in general. I feel like I put so much of my family and friends on hold while I was training for the last World Cup, and now that I have a sexy man to come home to every night, it makes it hard for me to want to leave and to make that same level of commitment. I also have been spending so much time with my family lately and my beautiful Goddaughter, and that has just been awesome. At this point, I can’t say that I am going to come back. I don’t really want to say that though, because playing on the USA team was honestly the most amazing experience I ever had. Not only did I meet some of the most AMAZING women in the US, but I felt so much pride wearing our nations colors and representing our great country. Playing for our country was the biggest honor I have ever been given. So, its hard to walk away from something like that.

PK: What was your take on the 2011 World Cup? Were you impressed with the level of play? Who was your favorite team?
Blair: 2011 World Cup was awesome to watch. Although I enjoyed watching all the good-looking men from around the world, the USA men will always be my favorite. I have so much pride in our country and am always rooting for our boys.

PK: In your opinion, what needs to happen in order to gain spectator popularity for women’s rugby?

Blair: Well, if I do say so, we have an EXTREMELY attractive USA team. There is something for everyone as we are all so different and provide a variety of flavors. So, with that being said, I think we need to get these beautiful faces on billboards, television, magazines…you name it. Another idea would be more exposure in general. So many people have never seen a women’s rugby game before, and if the sport got more exposure on television, then I do believe we would have a greater fan base. Also, youth development is huge. Getting young women involved in high school or younger would be ideal. As a parent, why wouldn’t you want your daughter to be a part of a rugby team? You would be teaching her the importance of teamwork, commitment, working hard, and dedication. Rugby Women represent strength, courage, pride, resilience, and passion. The USA Women’s National Team is such a diverse group of women, and there is no specific mold you have to fit into it. You can simply be yourself. It doesn’t matter your size, shape, height, color… ALL women can play rugby – if they have the heart to do it.

PK: Thank you so much for taking this time to share a little of yourself with the world.
Blair: Thanks, girl. It was a pleasure to see your hussy face. I would like to make a shout out to all my fellow Attractive ruggers: Attractive Americans + Friendship Rugby = WORLD DOMINATION… Love You, Mean It!!! XOXO

In our continuing three year partnership with the USA Rugby Women’s High Performance Team, the YSC Media Team will be in Vegas this weekend to webcast the Women’s International Sevens Matches. Matches are on Friday, Saturday and Sunday. This year the matches on Saturday and Sunday will be broadcast from within Sam Boyd Stadium!!! We will show ALL of the women’s International matches and will also provide updates via Twitter (#wrugby) and Facebook if you can’t tune in. Please spread the word to others so everyone can tune in to watch.

To view the complete schedule, rosters and more for this tournament go here.

Keep in mind that the YSC Media Team works on a volunteer basis because we love rugby! We would please ask that you show your support for our efforts to bring women’s rugby to you by giving a donation.

Many of you have played and loved rugby, but do you know the exact origins of the game for men (and ladies) with odd shaped balls?

In the first part of this fascinating documentary, hosted by Rob Andrew, we get to travel back in time and find out more about how the game was developed from its humble beginnings at Rugby school in England. Go here to watch the documentary and go here to read parts 1-15! Learn on!

from ScrumQueens:

The first game of the women’s rugby 6 Nations ended dramatically with the game between Ireland and Wales abandoned at halftime.

Scottish referee Kevin White called the game after 40 minutes for health and safety reasons, with the pitch hardening in the freezing temperatures.

Ireland were leading 10-3 when the game was called off and the IRFU later confirmed that the match result will not stand, and that though a replay was offered for tomorrow, the away team declined and the 6 Nations sub-committee will meet next week to set a date for a replay between the teams at the same County Meath venue.

Ireland had scored the only try in the 18th minute through an excellent run from winger Alison Miller, with centre Niamh Briggs adding the conversion.

Wales’ Laura Prosser and Briggs swapped penalties in the closing minutes of the half as Ireland moved 10-3 ahead for the break.

The girls in green were camped in the Welsh half for most of the opening quarter at Ashbourne RFC. They were unfortunate not to make more of a Claire Molloy turnover which resulted in a powerful burst from debutant lock Sophie Spence.

Briggs added the conversion but Wales forced Ireland to defend for much of the next 20 minutes.

Wales had flanker Sioned Harries sin-binned in the 36th minute, but they kept the pressure on the Irish defence and forced a penalty which Prosser converted.

Ireland managed to have the final say of the half with Briggs kicking them back into a seven-point lead deep into injury-time.

Ireland Women’s Team: Ashleigh Baxter (Belfast Harlequins – Ulster)*,. Niamh Kavanagh (UL Bohemians – Munster), Niamh Briggs (UL Bohemians – Munster), Grace Davitt (Cooke – Ulster), Alison Miller (Portlaoise/Highfield – Connacht), Lynne Cantwell (Exile), Amy Davis (Blackrock – Leinster), Fiona Coghlan (UL Bohemians – Leinster) Captain, Gillian Bourke (UL Bohemians – Munster), Ailis Egan (Old Belvedere – Leinster), Marie Louise Reilly (Old Belvedere – Leinster), Sophie Spence (Exile)*, Laura Guest (Highfield – Munster), Claire Molloy (Bristol – Exile), Joy Neville (UL Bohemians – Munster)
Replacements: Paula Fitzpatrick (St. Mary’s – Leinster)*, Ruth O’Reilly (Galwegians – Connacht)*, Siobhan Fleming (Tralee – Munster)*, Heather O’Brien (Highfield – Munster), Larissa Muldoon (Exile/UWIC – Ulster) Nikki Caughey (Belfast Harlequins – Ulster)*, A.N. Other *Denotes Uncapped Player

Wales Women’s Team: 1. Caryl Thomas, 2. Rhian Bowden, 3. Jenny Davies, 4. Vicky Owens, 5. Shona Powell Hughes, 6. Sioned Harries, 7. Rachel Taylor (Capt), 8. Jamie Kift, 9. Laura Prosser, 10. Naomi Thomas, 11. Rosie Fletcher, 12. Adi Taviner, 13. Philippa Tuttiett, 14. Charlie Murray. 15. Mared Evan
Replacements: 16. Lowri Harries, 17. Megan York, 18. Sian Williams. 19. Clare Flowers, 20. Amy Day, 21. Rebecca De Filippo, 22. Caryl James

Keep track of all the rosters, scores and schedule here.

Today is the last day to consider advertising for your team at the USA Rugby International Invitational Women’s 7s Tournament. Its a UNIQUE and cheap ad that will be viewed by over 6,000 female collegiate, club players, families and fans. PLUS, the money will go directly to the USA Rugby Women’s High Performance Program (all women national teams).

More Details - http://www.scrumhalfconnection.com/2012/01/19/2012-usa-womens-international-invitational-7s-webcast-ad-rate-sheet/

Thanks,

Wendy

USA Rugby Women's National Team Coach Pete Steinberg at the 2012 Youth Development Conference. Photo Credit: USA Rugby

This past weekend I attended the Youth Rugby Development Conference held this year in Atlanta, Georgia. Aside from the phenomenal time I had with all the ruggers, I had the pleasure of listening to numerous presentations that I know will positively impact my career; not only as a coach but also as a rugby player. Of all the presentations I listened to, the one that stuck out the most in my mind was the presentation given by Pete Steinberg. Steinberg currently coaches the Women’s Eagles Team and discussed “Coaching the Women’s Game”.

In my experience as a player, I always had imagined it would be difficult to coach women given the fact that we all seem to be a bit stubborn (and let’s face it, dramatic). However, Steinberg insists that if you can coach women, you can coach men. The likelihood that the occurrence will be successful the other way around is significantly low. This being because men and women do think differently and should not be coached the same.

Steinberg says that practices should consist more of games and entertaining activities as opposed to structured drills. After all, the best way to learn rugby is to play, right? In order to keep women engaged in the game of rugby, you have to make it interesting and entertaining; this way you get both your skilled players and your newer players involved and growing together. For example, a hearty game of keep away secretly works on passing abilities, touch rugby works a strong, flat defense and in a confined space will force steep back lines.

In the discussion of different ways to structure practice toward the goals of women’s teams and female athleticism, we consistently came across the deeply rooted issue of lack of players. Not only are numbers hard to come by, but keeping girls consistently coming out to play is as equally as difficult. In my experience, the lack of retaining girls has had an impact on most I’ve heard of. Games are frequently cancelled due to lack of numbers and teams tend to die out as quickly as they formed. Think about it, at the beginning of season you’ll have thirty or so girls come out to practice but about three or four weeks into your season, you’re having to move the forwards to the back line.

To combat the serious issue of retention, Steinberg suggests a few incentives for those playing. He suggests that for every vet that works with a rookie, their dues be lowered some based on the effort put forth by the vet. The vet can work one on one with their rookie, go to the gym with them, eat, help with school work, etc. This may ease some of the cliques within your team and make your rookies feel more at home. There’s no quicker way for you to lose girls than for them not to feel a part of the team. He also prescribes that rookies have to attend two mandatory skills sessions before being allowed to attend a full practice. These skills sessions could be the scrum, the lineout, ball handling, back plays, tackling or rucking sessions. He also suggest mandated safety course sessions for newer players. Not only will this aid them in the way that they play but this will also help ease the mind of the girls’ parents.

Steinberg brings up some very serious points that I know I’ve experienced first hand. There are ways to combat this issue! Team bonding: dinners, touch rugby games, movies, etc. Girls have to give each other a chance if they want to succeed because you can’t have a women’s team without women. Next time you’re at practice, tell a rookie that they’re doing a good job and invite them to grab lunch with you one day. It could be just the thing they needed to hear and might just keep coming around.