My rugby family means the world to me. The friendships and community that you take away from this sport will change your life. From late-night talks to tears flowing down our faces, whether from losses or wins, these girls have truly been family. When I first started playing rugby, I was co-ed and the only girl, and playing with boys was anything but easy. Boys can be cruel. A few years went by, and some girls joined the team, and I was thrilled. I became very close to those girls, and it was the first time I felt a sense of community in this sport. These girls made every practice amazing and made me feel like I belonged. After six years at the same club, we decided to move to be closer to family. As I found my club, I was introduced to select sides. Through the select sides, I have found girls I consider my sisters; their support and love have gotten me through the darkest of times. My rugby family is scattered, due to select sides, I know girls from all over. That's the most amazing part, we are all from different states and some from different countries. Each of us comes from all sorts of backgrounds, but rugby brings us all together. These girls have seen me in a way most people have not, all the late-night talks and intense practices. I feel like I can tell them anything, and they always make me feel safe and loved. Rugby is a community-filled sport; you have to fight for each other on and off the field. I have been chosen to be captain for my home club and the select sides, and being able to offer my leadership and help guide others has given me so much fulfillment. Being able to support and love my teammates the way they show me has meant so much. With rugby, you are only going to get better when you are surrounded by people who want to work hard and respect you enough to help give you great reps. I owe a lot to my rugby family; all the lessons I have learned from them, and the way they lift people up rather than tear them down. My hope for playing rugby in college is to play at the next level. To be tested, pushed, and supported for the next stage of my rugby journey. To be surrounded by people who want the intensity and have the determination to work hard and do everything at 100%. At the same time, I want to earn my degree and pursue my future. I want to develop as a person and an athlete. I want to become a USA Eagle and perform at the next level. Find more lifelong friends and experience life on my own, even when it gets hard to remember what all this work has been for.