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.
Olivia Rogers’ athletic journey began in Florida, where she was introduced to a variety of sports from a young age. Her early experiences were a mix of walking, tap dance, and ballet, but it was in figure skating that she found her first real passion, inspired by the legendary Dorothy Hamill. Alongside her love for skating, Olivia also drew inspiration from Steve Prefontaine, the celebrated long-distance runner, which led her to develop an interest in running.
As Olivia grew older, her athletic pursuits expanded to include tennis, swimming, and powder puff football. However, it was during college that she faced a pivotal moment. After a year of competing in cross country and Track & Field—where she threw the hammer—Olivia began to feel the pressure and stress that came with these sports. Seeking a change, she made the bold decision to leave these behind and take up rugby, a sport that offered the camaraderie and challenge she had been searching for.
Rugby quickly became a central part of Olivia’s life. Her dedication to the game is evident in her rigorous training schedule, which includes lifting, biking, running, and Pilates. Olivia also finds joy in outdoor activities like paddle boarding, kayaking, hiking, skiing, and golfing, all of which contribute to her physical and mental well-being. When it comes to preparing for competition, her strategy is simple: plenty of sleep, good food, and using mental imagery to stay focused and calm.
Throughout her rugby career, Olivia has faced her fair share of challenges, particularly with managing nerves before big games. Yet, her ability to redirect anxiety into focus has been key to her success. A standout moment in her career came during a National event when, despite her 5’3″ stature, she was lifted by much taller teammates to steal the ball in a defensive lineout—a memory she cherishes as a symbol of her determination and grit.
Balancing her athletic pursuits with the demands of work and life has always been a priority for Olivia. She emphasizes the importance of careful scheduling and time management, a discipline that has helped her remain injury-free for over two decades in rugby. Olivia credits this to a combination of consistent training, physical therapy, and, above all, patience. Her advice to young athletes is clear: build your physical strength to protect against injury and develop mental resilience to overcome obstacles.
Looking ahead, Olivia sees her future in rugby as a coach for referees, specifically in the Women’s Premier League (WPL), where she is already making an impact by shaping the next generation of players and officials. Her goals include staying healthy and active in rugby for as long as possible, while also exploring new ways to stay engaged with the sport she loves.
Olivia Rogers’ journey from the ice rink and running track to the rugby pitch is a testament to her adaptability, resilience, and passion for sport. Her story is one of finding the right path, overcoming challenges, and dedicating herself to a lifelong love of rugby.
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