February 2015
A Letter to Penn Women's Rugby
It's incredibly difficult to be a girl in college. There are social pressures to dress a certain way, behave a certain way, and it's not ok. This semester, Penn Women's Rugby launched the "Because of Rugby" campaign to get women to love and appreciate their bodies (and join Penn Rugby, of course), because for many of us, rugby has been our foundation of support and love that allows us to transcend the stereotypes and be who we want to be.
We recently received a letter from a 2007 rugby alumna, Katie, detailing her feelings on what has become another prominent issue for girls, sexual assault, and her gratitude for her teammates on Penn Rugby for having her back so that “those statistics have always been numbers.” She has graciously allowed us to share her letter, and we encourage everyone, whether you be woman or man, a rugger or someone who wouldn’t know a rugby ball if it hit them on the head, to read her first-hand account and feel her passion and sincerity.
Thank you, Katie, for sharing your story. Thank you Penn Rugby - alumnae, current, and future members - for continuing to have each other’s backs.
Because of Rugby
"You don't look like a rugby player..."
Most of us have heard this before, but because of rugby, we know it's not true. There is no ideal shape or size, in rugby and in life. Through our sport, we've learned to appreciate our bodies and their strengths. We all contribute to the team, both on and off the field. We know that the most important thing is not our body type, but how hard we work to support each other. Penn Women's Rugby has taught us to be confident in our abilities and proud of our accomplishments.
#rugbyisforeveryBODY
All images property of University of Pennsylvania Women's Rugby Football Club
Photo Credit to Kaitlin Moore
Created in collaboration with Penn Poised
Inspired by Emory Women's Rugby "Because of Rugby" Campaign https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.567570673374278.1073741828.153583958106287&type=3
January 2015
"Being Deaf No Obstacle For Penn Rugger"
An article on our very own alum teammate and co-president, Sophia Hu! Sophia was born deaf, but she does not let that get in the way. She's a leader on the field, known for her aggressive tackles and steady support. Her positivity and optimism is inspirational, as are her muscles.
Read the article here.