NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WSMV) – Girls rugby is without doubt one of the fastest-growing sports activities on the earth, however in Middle Tennessee, it’s struggling to survive.
Low numbers and the latest rise of girls flag soccer have made it more durable for groups like Raptor Rugby to keep on the sphere. The gamers who present up say it’s greater than price it.
“I really just fell in love with the community and just getting better at the sport because it’s one of those sports where you can really see your improvement fast,” mentioned Ilana Hanahi.
Kathleen Huynh mentioned the sport has taught her abilities past the sphere.
“It definitely taught me how to think fast on my feet because in a game you don’t get that much time to think especially if you have the ball before getting tackled or having to pass off the ball and it’s honestly translated really well to academics and just my other extracurricular activities,” Huynh mentioned.
While some nonetheless query girls in a full-contact sport, the athletes are pushing again.
“Some think it’s really really aggressive and everyone is like rude to you but for one our team, I know Raptor Rugby we really focus on keeping everyone safe,” mentioned Sonma Nwanso.
Lu Stinson mentioned the competitors is pleasant.
“But surprisingly on the field the people that we play against are remarkably friendly and they are really nice. I’ve been tackled and then apologized too and I’ve scored against people who have then turn around and given me a high five while the game is still going,” Stinson mentioned.
In each observe and each recreation, it isn’t nearly competing however protecting the sport alive. The gamers hope extra be a part of them earlier than their closing whistle blows for good.
“Do it, like it’s seriously the best experience that I’ve ever had in my whole high school,” Hanahi mentioned.
“Don’t be scared, you don’t need any sort of experience, you don’t need to know anyone. Just show up, and everyone will be incredibly welcoming, even if it turns out to be something you don’t want to stick with, it’ll leave you with skills you can apply in all sorts of different ways throughout the whole rest of your life,” Stinson mentioned.
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