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.
Elena Edwards began her athletic journey at the tender age of eight, stepping onto the softball and basketball fields. Though those early years were marked by more losses than wins, they laid the foundation for a humble and determined athlete. Elena’s passion for sports was cultivated by her parents, with her mother, a steadfast supporter, dedicating countless hours to driving Elena to practices and tournaments. Her father, a former sprinter, instilled confidence in her athletic abilities, helping her to believe in herself even in the face of challenges.
Growing up in Los Angeles, Elena was constantly surrounded by sports. Summers were spent at sports camps, and her weeknights and weekends were filled with watching CSULB volleyball and basketball games with her mom or attending track meets with her dad. This immersive environment eventually transitioned from spectating to active participation, and rugby became the sport that truly resonated with her.
Elena’s connection to rugby deepened over the years, and she found her home with the All Blues, a club she has proudly represented since 2012. One of her most memorable moments came in 2022 when the All Blues won the WPL Championship. It was a victory ten years in the making, and for Elena, it was a reminder of why she continues to show up on the pitch after more than two decades in the sport.
Balancing her athletic pursuits with her role as a Project Manager in Oakland, Elena relies on her trusty Google Calendar to keep her organized. Her training regimen is guided by a loose goal for each season, with a focus on maintaining both physical and mental fitness. She approaches competition with a relaxed mindset, ensuring she’s prepared with consistent eating and hydration routines.
Setbacks and injuries are inevitable in a long athletic career, but Elena has learned to navigate them with patience and focus. Having experienced the cycle of recovery multiple times, she understands the importance of staying positive and looking forward to what comes next.
Elena’s advice to young athletes is simple yet profound: stay humble, stay hungry, and be open to learning. She envisions rugby continuing to grow and thrive, and while she may eventually transition to the sidelines to cheer on her team, for now, she’s still figuring out how to retire from the sport she loves.
In a lighter moment, when asked what cartoon character she’d be, Elena chose Eeyore, appreciating his sass. Her favorite rugby player, Portia Woodman, embodies the skill and determination that Elena admires. And while Elena’s diet may not stray far from chicken and potatoes, her love for the sport of rugby continues to fuel her journey as an athlete.
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