What got you interested in rugby and why did you join the Crusaders?
I watched a friend on the Bombers for a couple years and became interested in learning. He suggested the Crusaders so I gave them a try. I had wanted to try something new anyway and thought rugby was perfect for me.
What position(s) do you play?
I'm a forward and have only really played lock. I'm too tall for anything else in the pack or not fast enough.
How long have you played rugby?
Off and on for about 5 years.
What do you do for a living?
I work in a Sales/Customer Service Center for Soft Surroundings. I help women buy clothes and resolve issues with orders from our catalogs. It's primarily for well-to-do older women who don't shop online or for those who don't have one of our stores nearby.
What's a fun fact about you?
I know American Sign Language. One upon a time, I was in school to learn it for interpreter training.
What's your favorite thing about rugby?
Honestly, feeling beat up after a match knowing that I worked my ass off. Finding the scrapes and bruises from the match the next day is fun too. Also the brotherhood amongst the guys is nothing short of awesome.
Do you have any advice for people who are on the fence about playing?
Try it. You won't regret it. Unless you don't like working hard, running, getting dirty, nasty sweaty, beat up or drinking. Otherwise, come to practice and give us a shot. I mean it, you really won't regret it.
Overall, how has rugby affected your life?
It's made me have better respect for myself and those around me. I work harder in my personal life when I'm playing. I feel more connected than ever when I'm part of the team. I just feel like I belong here and I never really felt that before I started playing rugby.