When and where did you play rugby?
I started playing rugby my freshman year at Chico State in 2001. I saw a flier advertising tackling and I thought it sounded like fun. I went out to my first practice and the rest is history. I fell in love with the game and played whenever I could.
Over the years I've been fortunate enough to play for a few different clubs. After college I went on to play with the Berkeley All Blues, Nor Cal, Minnesota Valkyries, and ORSU. In 2014 I finally decided to hang up the boots (except for the occasional alumni match to relive the glory days).
When did you play as an Eagle?
I earned my first cap on tour in 2007 against England, along with 16 other teammates. We got hammered. It was an eye opening experience, which really set the tone for my international rugby career.
I realized then how much work it was going to take to play at that level. I wasn't sure I was going to be invited back, but given the opportunity again, I was going to be better prepared. Luckily for me, I was given another shot.
I went on to earn 13 caps and was a member of the 2010 World Cup Team, before retiring from international play in 2013.
What is your favorite rugby memory?
Choosing a favorite rugby memory is so hard to do. There are too many to choose from! If I had to pick, there are two. The first is when we won the National Championship my freshman year at Chico State. We were a no name team who went on to beat all these powerhouse clubs. It was unforgettable.
The second is being a part of the 2010 World Cup Team. It was an amazing experience filled with ups and downs. The shared experiences I had with my teammates helped form this incredible bond that we still have to this day.
What are you doing now?
After retiring from international rugby in 2013, it was time to get back to what I refer to as "real life.' Like so many other Eagles, I too basically put my life on hold to make sure rugby came first. I had a job I didn't really like and no plan. Since then I've had a little bit of a career change, gone back to school and found a job that I love. I currently work at a hospital in the pharmacy department and am applying to nursing school.
What do you believe is the most important factor in growing the game in the United States?
I think youth involvement is huge right now in growing the game. There's kind of a trickle down effect by exposing kids to rugby at an early age. You get parent involvement, which leads to a better understanding of the game - for both kids and parents - which in turn leads to an increase the sport's popularity. I'm amazed at how many youth programs are out there right now.
