Olivia Benzan-Daniel: Pushing Boundaries On and Off the Rugby Field

Olivia Benzan-Daniel, known as OBD, began during her rugby journey as a freshman in college when she sought out a sport to fill the competitive void left by her basketball days. Starting with Holy Cross Women’s Rugby, she quickly found herself captivated by the challenges and rewards that rugby offered. From the very beginning, OBD’s determination and passion for growth were evident. She transitioned from being a solid player with a few strengths to someone who could aim higher, realizing that with effort and mental resilience, she could truly excel in the sport.

A standout moment came in 2015 when OBD, playing for Beantown, found herself starting in the Club Division I National Championship. For someone who had never competed at that level before, it was a defining moment. OBD recalls the match as her first major lesson in how mental fortitude plays just as significant a role in rugby as physical skill. The experience solidified her drive to continually improve and compete at the highest levels, a pursuit that later led to her selection as a 2019 WPL All-Star, a moment she describes as an incredible honor.

But OBD’s rugby journey hasn’t been without its challenges. The pandemic put a sudden halt to her playing career, something she found incredibly difficult. As someone who had been active her entire life, the abrupt stop was a stark contrast to her usual routine. During that time, OBD turned to therapy, something she credits with helping her navigate the mental and emotional toll of the isolation. Even after returning to rugby, she has continued therapy, recognizing the importance of mental health both on and off the field.

Now, as a seasoned player with Beantown and a leader in the Blackyardigans, OBD has proven herself both as a competitor and a community builder. She’s a firm believer in the importance of teamwork and the value of learning from setbacks. OBD sees every challenge, whether in rugby or life, as a learning opportunity. This mindset has allowed her to balance her demanding IT career, rugby commitments, and personal life.

When asked what advice she would give to young athletes, OBD’s message is simple: start today, ask for help, and know that no one succeeds alone. She hopes to continue playing rugby for as long as she can, aiming to stay on the field well into her 40s. Beyond her playing career, she envisions herself mentoring the next generation of athletes, staying connected to the sport that has given her so much.

OBD is also passionate about the future of rugby. She sees the sport gaining momentum and hopes to be a driving force in its continued progress. Whether as a player, coach, or administrator, OBD’s commitment to rugby is unwavering. Her journey is a testament to resilience, leadership, and a love for the game that has no end in sight.