Showcasing My Rugby Journey: Highlights and Future Goals

Rugby is more than just a sport for me; it is a passion that has shaped my life in countless ways. From the first time I picked up a rugby ball to the thrilling matches I have played, my journey has been filled with unforgettable moments. In this blog post, I will share some of the highlights of my rugby journey and outline my future goals in the sport.

The Beginning of My Rugby Journey

I started playing rugby at the age of 5. My parents were missionaries in South Africa. They met another American family who suggested to my mother to give rugby a chance. As an energetic boy, who loved taunting my younger sisters, she saw this a great option to exhaust me. I remember the excitement of joining Rugga Kids. I didn't understand much but I knew to get the ball, tackle and run. I was eager to learn, and I quickly fell in love with the sport.

The first years were challenging. I struggled with the rules, playing without rugby boots and how different it was from American football. However, my coach and school community were supportive and encouraged me to keep pushing myself. I learned the basics of passing, tackling, and teamwork. Each practice made me more confident.

Memorable Matches

As I progressed, I had the chance to play in several memorable matches. One that stands out was a local tournament where i made the provincial team and my mom had my youngest sister was a one month old baby. My team faced our biggest rivals, Durban Sharks. The atmosphere was electric, and the stakes were high.

I remember tackling, mauling and working so hard to bring home a victory for our regional team. The feeling of winning was indescribable. I got to share my victory with my "Nana" who traveled from the United States to help my Mother. My teammates and I celebrated, and I felt like I was on top of the world. That moment solidified my love for rugby and motivated me to work even harder.

The Importance of Teamwork

Rugby is a team sport, and I have learned the true value of teamwork through my experiences. Each player has a role, and success depends on how well we work together.

During my third seasons at Life University, our team finally overcame the challenge of defeating our biggest competitors, the Naval Academy and Lindenwood Lions. In past seasons, we had injuries and losses, but we never gave up. We supported each other, both on and off the field. This bond made us stronger and helped us improve as a team. We made our first appearance to the College Rugby Association of America(CRAA) Championship game, the first time since 2019.

Overcoming Challenges

Every athlete faces challenges, and I am no exception. I have dealt with injuries that kept me off the field for weeks. These moments were tough, but they taught me resilience.

During my recovery, I focused on my fitness and mental strength. I watched games, studied techniques, and stayed connected with my teammates. This time away from the field made me appreciate the game even more.

Training and Development

To improve my skills, I have dedicated countless hours to training. I believe that hard work is essential for success. I have attended various training camps with Eagle Impact Rugby Association(2021) and United States Rugby Eagle u/20 2023 and u/21 workshops to learn from experienced coaches. I also had a brief stint with Cy-Fair Warriors(2017) and The Woodlands Rugby Club(2022) when my family furloughed and transition back to the USA.

The Woodlands Rugby Club 2022(credits TWRC Facebook Page)

One of the most valuable lessons I learned was about the importance of fitness. Rugby requires strength, speed, and endurance. I incorporated strength training and conditioning into my routine. This has made a significant difference in my performance on the field.

Future Goals

Looking ahead, I have set several goals for my rugby career. I want to play professionally and see United States Rugby strongly contest and compete successful against the world's best teams when we host the 2031 Rugby World Cup. .

One of my dreams is to represent the United States in the the Rugby World Cup. I know this will require dedication and hard work, but I am ready for the challenge. I plan to continue improving my skills and pushing my limits.

Community and Rugby

Rugby has also connected me with a wonderful community. The friendships I have made through the sport are invaluable. We celebrate victories together and support each other during tough times.

Participating in community events has been a highlight of my journey. I have volunteered to help younger players learn the game. Seeing their excitement reminds me of my early days in rugby.

The Joy of Playing

At the end of the day, what I love most about rugby is the joy of playing. The thrill of a well-executed play, the camaraderie with teammates, and the cheers from the crowd make it all worthwhile.

Every match is an opportunity to learn and grow. I cherish the moments on the field, and I look forward to many more in the future.

Embracing the Journey

As I reflect on my rugby journey, I realize that it is not just about the destination. It is about the experiences, the lessons learned, and the people I have met along the way.

I am excited about what lies ahead. With hard work and determination, I believe I can achieve my goals. Rugby has taught me to embrace challenges and strive for excellence.

Final Thoughts

Rugby has been a significant part of my life, shaping who I am today. I am grateful for the experiences I have had and the lessons I have learned.

As I continue my journey, I am committed to growing as a player and a person. I look forward to the challenges and triumphs that await me in the world of rugby.

Leon Best (#3) scoring a try in a regular season match.

Rugby is not just a game; it is a way of life. I invite you to join me on this journey, whether you are a player, a fan, or someone who is just curious about the sport. Together, we can celebrate the spirit of rugby and all that it brings to our lives.