We’re excited to continue our series, “Pioneers of the Pitch,” where we celebrate the groundbreaking athletes, administrators, coaches, referees, and fans making their mark on rugby in the USA. Each installment takes you on a journey through the inspiring stories of rising stars and seasoned legends, both on and off the field. Whether honoring their contributions during their lifetime or posthumously, we shine a light on these exceptional individuals and uncover their tales of dedication, passion, and triumph.
As we gear up for the WER Legacy Cup Semifinals on September 7 and Finals on September 14, our focus is on shining a light on WPL athletes, sharing their stories, and helping them gain the recognition they deserve.
Eve Mango’s journey into the world of rugby is a testament to the power of determination, passion, and community. Born in Pittsburgh, PA, Eve’s athletic career began early, trying her hand at various sports, from gymnastics to soccer and volleyball. It wasn’t until she arrived at UC Berkeley, however, that rugby entered her life, igniting a passion that would shape her future.
Growing up as the youngest of five sisters, Eve was surrounded by athletic role models, two of whom played at the D1 collegiate level. Her parents, both veterans who played sports at West Point, instilled in her a deep appreciation for physical activity and the rewards it brings. This environment fostered a love for sports, and Eve quickly realized that the teamwork and camaraderie she found in sports were irreplaceable.
Eve’s introduction to rugby came with no hesitation, driven by the encouragement from her mentors and the realization that rugby allowed her to be as physical as she wanted to be. She found in rugby a unique space where strength and power are celebrated, something she hadn’t experienced in other sports. Rugby became a place where she could truly appreciate what her body could do, rather than how it looked, helping her build confidence both on and off the field.
Eve’s journey has not been without challenges, particularly with her confidence and relationship with her body. However, rugby has played a pivotal role in reshaping her mindset. The support from her college coach, Katie Chou, has been instrumental in this journey. Katie’s unwavering belief in Eve’s potential encouraged her to pursue new challenges, including playing for the Women’s Premier League (WPL) team, New York, this summer. Playing against her former coaches in her first WPL match was a significant moment for Eve, marking a turning point in her athletic aspirations.
Balancing her athletic pursuits with her studies as a college student is no small feat, but Eve has mastered the art of time management, relying on her digital calendar to keep everything on track. Rugby has not only provided her with discipline and focus but has also made her a better person, helping her balance the demands of life with her passion for the sport.
Injuries and setbacks are part of any athlete’s journey, and Eve has learned the importance of valuing her body and taking the time to recover fully. Her gratitude for the opportunity to play rugby, despite these challenges, keeps her grounded and motivated.
Looking to the future, Eve’s goals are clear. She aims to win a National Championship with her Cal in her senior year and continue playing rugby at the highest level possible. The professionalization of women’s rugby, with the growth of leagues like PR7s and Women’s Elite Rugby (WER), has opened up new possibilities for Eve and her peers. She hopes to be a role model for future generations, just as the current top players have been for her.
Beyond her playing career, Eve envisions staying involved in women’s sports, whether in rugby or another field, and giving back to the community that has given her so much. Her journey is far from over, and with her determination and passion, Eve Mango is poised to make a lasting impact on the sport she loves.
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