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 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.
Hope Cooper’s journey into the world of rugby began with a strong foundation in various sports, particularly volleyball, where she honed her technical skills and developed a deep appreciation for teamwork. Growing up in Copperopolis, CA, she was surrounded by a supportive family and mentors who believed in her potential. Her high school volleyball coach, Coach Juarez, played a pivotal role during a time when Hope doubted her abilities as an athlete. He pushed her to excel and instilled in her the belief that she could compete at a higher level.
When Hope transitioned to college at UC Berkeley, she sought a new athletic challenge and found it in rugby. Influenced by early experiences in sports that taught her resilience and determination, Hope was ready to embrace the physicality and camaraderie that rugby offered. Her early sports experiences, combined with her father’s support and love for sports, paved the way for her to pursue rugby passionately.
Under the guidance of coaches like Elvis Sevealii and Katie Chou, Hope’s rugby career flourished. Elvis pushed her to her limits, both as a player and as a coach, helping her evolve into a formidable athlete. He encouraged her to take every opportunity to play at higher levels, a mantra that has guided Hope throughout her rugby journey. Her dedication to training and her relentless pursuit of improvement have led her to significant achievements, including being named to the USA Women’s U23 team and captaining them in 2022.
Balancing rugby with her career has been one of Hope’s biggest challenges. As a female athlete in the WPL, she faces the financial burden of paying for her travel and accommodations, all while maintaining a full-time job as an Educational Case Manager. Despite these challenges, Hope remains committed to her rugby goals, setting individual milestones and focusing on what she can control. She finds joy in the sport and relies on her teammates to remind her of the bigger picture.
One of the most memorable moments in Hope’s career was the jersey presentation before the 2023 WPL National Championships, which her team, All Blues, went on to win. The respect and admiration shared among her teammates during that ceremony left an indelible mark on her. The full-circle moment of playing alongside her first rugby teammate, Abby Vogel, made the victory even more special.
Looking ahead, Hope envisions a future where women’s rugby continues to grow, with more professional opportunities and greater recognition. Her goal is to earn a cap with the USA Women’s XVs side and compete in a XVs World Cup. After her playing career, she plans to continue coaching at the collegiate level, contributing to the development of the next generation of rugby players.
Hope’s advice to young athletes is simple: take every opportunity and enjoy the journey. Whether it’s trying out for teams, attending camps, or simply soaking in the experience, she believes that the joy of rugby comes from the community and the memories made along the way.
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