Irish children are taught not to have any 'notions' about themselves. It's like thinking too highly of yourself in a way that might come off as arrogant. Growing up in Ireland talking highly about myself to people was not an option. You had to learn to deal with your own predicaments. As an Irish student studying psychology in America, I found it incredibly interesting how American students have no issues talking about themselves, where as at home this would be seen as boastful, but is normal here. Looking into how different environments influence people started my journey of interest into the human brain, particularly how it influences young people in sport. Psychology means so much to me as both a student at Life University and a passionate rugby player. As an Irish student, I bring a unique perspective to the subject, shaped by my background and experiences. I’ve always been fascinated by how the mind works—why we think, feel, and behave the way we do. The complexities of human behaviour and mental processes are so deeply intertwined with our experiences and environments, and studying psychology gives me the tools to understand people and the way they act. Being a student of psychology in Georgia, has been an exciting journey. The research, the theories, and the practical applications all intertwine in ways I hadn’t expected when I first started. It’s not just about learning about the mind—it’s about understanding how to make a real difference in people's lives, helping them through mental health challenges or finding ways to improve their well-being. It's an incredibly empowering field, one that connects deeply with both my academic and personal interests. In the context of playing women’s rugby, psychology is crucial. Rugby is a physically and mentally demanding sport, and the mental aspect plays just as big a role as the physical. It’s about teamwork, communication, and resilience. Understanding the psychology behind motivation, group dynamics, and mental toughness helps me push through tough games and stay focused on my goals. It also helps me support my teammates and communicate effectively under pressure, fostering a stronger sense of unity on and off the field. For me, psychology isn’t just an academic discipline; it’s a lens through which I view the world, my sport, and my own personal growth. Whether it’s understanding the impact of stress on performance or learning more about the power of the mind in overcoming adversity, psychology offers endless insight into how we can achieve our full potential. Empowering women in sport and psychology is something that resonates deeply with me. As a collegiate rugby player, I’ve witnessed first hand how important it is to break barriers and challenge societal norms. Sports have traditionally been male-dominated, but women are increasingly making their mark, and psychology plays a key role in that empowerment. Understanding the mental strength required to push through challenges, break down stereotypes, and build self-confidence is crucial. Psychology helps us understand how to navigate the pressures that come with being a female athlete, from managing expectations to dealing with imposter syndrome. It allows us to tap into our full potential, not only as athletes but as leaders, role models, and advocates for change. By fostering a strong mental game, we can continue to pave the way for future generations of women in sport, proving that there are no limits to what we can achieve.

Growing up in Ireland, I was always involved in sports, but it wasn’t until I stepped onto the rugby field at the age of 12, did I feel a sense of belonging. When the whistle blows, I am not just playing a game, I am a part of something much bigger. There’s something about rugby that makes you realize it’s not just about you—it’s about the team. The tackles, the passes, the tries, they’re all done with the understanding that you rely on each other to succeed. My experience on the rugby field has taught me that success isn’t always measured by the scoreboard. Losing the championship final in my fourth year of school was tough. We were playing a local team in one of the countries main stadiums. We got absolutely hammered by them. In the dressing room afterwards I looked around at my teammates sweaty faces and I realized something, no matter what happened, we had each other’s backs. We didn’t need to win to be proud of each other. We fought to the last second for each other. That’s the essence of rugby, and it’s a value that I carry with me every day. The lessons I’ve learned through rugby go far beyond physical strength, they’ve shaped the person I am today. The discipline and the leadership I’ve developed from playing rugby has influenced my approach to life. I like to remember it's not about the size of the dog in the fight, its about the size of the fight in the dog. One of my biggest hopes for playing rugby in college is to continue to grow, not just as a player, but as a leader. I want to be part of a program that prioritizes the growth of its athletes, not just their abilities on the field, but also as individuals. Rugby has given me so much discipline, resilience, and a deep understanding of teamwork. I want to give back to the sport by helping others discover what it means to be part of something bigger than themselves. I want to help elevate women’s rugby in America to the level it is at home in Ireland. In Ireland, rugby is a sport that young girls can aspire to play at a high level, with strong programs, professional leagues, and incredible role models. Unfortunately, that level of support and recognition doesn’t exist yet in the U.S. for women’s rugby. In my opinion the U.S has a horrible attitude towards women in sport, especially women in rugby. My parents have always taught me that attitude is a choice, so chose a good one. I want to be a part of the movement that advocates for better access to the sport for young girls, better development programs, and a culture that celebrates women’s rugby as much as the men’s game. I believe that by advocating for better resources, more visibility, and more representation in media, we can make a lasting difference for the next generation of female rugby players in this country. In the end, playing rugby isn’t just about competing. It’s about being part of a family. A family that challenges you, supports you, and stands by you no matter the circumstances. That’s what I have found in college rugby —a new family. The power of found families is something more than just blood relations. I’ve learned that a true family isn’t necessarily one you’re born into, but one you build through shared experiences and unwavering support. Playing rugby you create a family. That family doesn’t just support you in the game, it supports everything you do.