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.
Born in Kahuku, Hawaii, and raised in Provo, Utah, Kathryn ‘Kat’ Stowers was always drawn to sports. With a background in basketball and volleyball, Kat quickly realized her potential was best channeled into rugby. Influenced by athletes like Ruby Tui and Portia Woodman-Wickliffe, Kat has shaped her game around resilience and the joy of playing. Tui’s playful yet skilled approach inspired her to keep things fun on the field, while Woodman-Wickliffe’s strength serves as a reminder of the power women bring to the sport.
Kat’s family history also fuels her drive. Raised in a family of seven girls and one brother, she fondly recalls how her upbringing wasn’t traditionally feminine. Her father, a rugby fanatic from Samoa, and her mother both sacrificed greatly to provide for their family in America. This has deeply influenced Kat, motivating her to make a name for herself in rugby, not for personal glory but as a tribute to her parents’ efforts. Rugby allows her to connect with her roots and gives her the chance to celebrate the strength of women in sport.
Playing rugby at BYU has presented its own unique challenges. With teammates who often had little to no rugby experience, Kat found herself not only playing but also teaching the game. Balancing her own development with her responsibilities as a captain was tough, but it was a challenge she embraced. One of her most memorable moments came during a match against Life University, the reigning D1 Elite National Champions. Despite being down 17-0 at halftime, BYU fought back to end the game at 34-19, a testament to the team’s heart and determination. For Kat, it wasn’t just about the score—it was about showing that even without scholarships, her team could compete with the best.
Kat’s athletic journey extends beyond rugby. A two-time MA Sorensen nominee (in 2021 and 2024), Kat is also a multi-sport athlete, having honed her skills in basketball and volleyball before dedicating herself to rugby. She credits her high school volleyball coach, Bailey, for pushing her limits and instilling the mental toughness that has carried over to her rugby career.
Her training regimen includes five days of intense workouts and two days of recovery, giving her the balance she needs to excel on the field. Mental preparation is equally important to Kat, who studies top teams like the Black Ferns and the Australian Women’s Rugby team to stay composed in high-pressure situations.
As for her future, Kat aims to become a rugby ambassador and hopes to influence more women to embrace the sport. Her long-term goals include maintaining her health and sharing her love of rugby with the next generation, perhaps even coaching her own children someday.
Kat’s journey in rugby is far from over, and as she transitions from collegiate rugby, she’s determined to remain active in the sport, hoping to inspire young girls to see rugby as a place where strength and femininity coexist.
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