The World Cup is amazing. There’s been some great matches so far. (Aus vs USA…how good?!). There’s also been some fantastic stories (I’m looking at you South Africa and Brazil).
I attended the Canada v Wales game last weekend. After the game, Georgia Evans put out a statement (which was supported by the Welsh Rugby Union). Georgia had received some negative comments about her appearance.
Georgia often plays with bows in her hair and wears makeup. This seems to have upset a few people.
"It appears that my appearance on game day seems to be offending some people... and to that I'm so not sorry.” - Georgia Evans
Sadly, it’s not suprising. A recent article stated that female athletes face three times more online abuse than their male counterparts. The lack of suprise, however, doesn’t make it any less disappointing and upsetting.
Rugby Union often cries out for more characters and stories. Players are not robots. The sport is made up of individuals so let’s celebrate and support them. You can showcase your personality and style and play rugby. They are not exclusive.
I would love to know why a patterned gum shield is acceptable but makeup or bows are not. (Clue: it’s all to do with what’s been ‘traditionally’ accepted and what’s seen as ‘masculine’ and what’s not)
“This game allows space and room for every boy and girl, whatever their haircut, body shape or look they wish to wear on and off the field. 'It's not a rugby look' - a rugby player is no longer defined by your gender or what you look like. 'It's childish' - but to all those young girls it's understanding you don't have to compromise who you are to fit into a stereotype” - Georgia Evans
If you’re coaching players, encourage them to bring their personality into their matchday. As long as it’s safe to play in.
When I played, I set myself up based on how I wanted to play. I had rolled down socks (which reminded me of players I looked up to). I also had a gumshield that was all white apart from a black block in the middle that made it look like I had my front two teeth missing.
That was part of my matchday uniform that helped me get ready and made me feel confident. It worked for me.
Whether you want to bring Barbie to the party or showcase your style another way, you don’t have to change who you are for rugby. Rugby is for all styles, body shapes and personalities.
"In an old-school, man's game, I'm bringing a bit of Barbie to the party
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"Bringing a bit of Barbie to the party" - love that!