August 29, 2024
Sydney Davis
Stanford Women's Rugby, Class of 2025

After an extraordinary season that saw Stanford Women's XV secure a national championship and the Men's 7s team finish among the nation's top five, a group of determined Stanford Rugby players set their sights on Christchurch, New Zealand. Their mission: to push their rugby skills to new heights and experience the rich and storied rugby culture that Christchurch is known for worldwide.

Christchurch, often heralded as a rugby mecca, provided the perfect backdrop for the next chapter in their rugby journey. Over the course of eight intensive weeks, these Stanford athletes immersed themselves in an environment where rugby is more than a sport—it's a way of life. They trained on the legendary grounds of Rugby Park, the training home of the world-renowned Crusaders and the Canterbury provincial team, a place steeped in rugby history and success.

The players' daily routine was a rigorous test of both their physical endurance and mental acuity. Their days began with morning strength and conditioning sessions in the gym, designed to push their limits and build the resilience required at the highest levels of the game. After this, they transitioned into film sessions, where they meticulously analyzed footage from their practices and matches. These sessions were invaluable, allowing the players to gain deeper insights into their performance and refine their tactical understanding.

Afternoons were dedicated to sharpening their on-field skills at Rugby Park. Whether it was perfecting a line-out, working on tactical kicking, or refining defensive strategies, the players focused on the finer points of rugby that can make all the difference in a tight match. The structured environment at Rugby Park, coupled with the world-class facilities, ensured that every session was as productive as it was challenging.

But the learning didn't stop there. In the evenings, the players joined their respective local club teams for additional practice sessions. These clubs—each with its own unique history and culture—provided an authentic New Zealand rugby experience. Mahie Wilhelm (Class of 2024), Sydney Davis (Class of 2025), Kirsten Lees (Class of 2027), and Leila Wang Gaouette (Class of 2026) all donned the colors of High School Old Boys, while Diego Burgos (Class of 2025) joined West Melton Rugby Football Club, Riley Elliot (Class of 2027) played for Woodend Rugby Club, and Nolan Pierce (Class of 2027) lined up with Sydenham Rugby Club. These local clubs became more than just teams; they became communities that welcomed the Stanford players into the heart of New Zealand rugby.

Their time in New Zealand was filled with unforgettable moments, each contributing to their growth as players and individuals. One of the highlights was the chance to attend an All Blacks match in Dunedin—a true bucket-list experience for any rugby fan. Watching the All Blacks triumph over England in front of a passionate crowd was a moment of pure exhilaration and a reminder of the heights they could aspire to in their own rugby careers. Beyond the game itself, the players cherished their time exploring the natural beauty of Christchurch, from the rugged coastlines to the serene beaches. They also had the rare opportunity to meet and learn from rugby legends like Richie McCaw, Sevu Reece, and Joe Moody, whose words of wisdom and stories of the game left a lasting impact. As Leila Wang-Gaouette (Class of 2026) reflected,

"One of my favorite parts of the academy was probably the opportunities we had to interact with and learn from world-class athletes. Be it watching the Canterbury provincial team train during our lunch break or doing groundwork with Sevu Reece, it was a privilege to absorb some of the knowledge these great players have."

One of the most enriching aspects of the academy experience was its international flavor. The Stanford players trained alongside peers from rugby nations across the globe, including Japan, Ireland, Argentina, Scotland, Australia, England, and Canada. This diverse environment not only expanded their rugby networks but also broadened their perspectives on the game. They learned not just from the expert coaches but from the unique playing styles and insights of their international counterparts, making it a truly global rugby education.

Living with local host families added an extra layer of immersion into the Kiwi way of life. The players quickly adapted to the rhythms of New Zealand culture, enjoying traditional foods like meat and cheese pies, Kiwi burgers, fish and chips, and roast lamb dinners. They picked up local slang, navigated the quirks of driving on the left side of the road, and fully embraced the warmth and hospitality of their host families, who treated them like one of their own.

As their time in Christchurch drew to a close, the Stanford players reflected on the friendships they had forged and the deepened bonds with their teammates. They will return to Stanford not only as better rugby players but as more seasoned, culturally aware individuals with a renewed passion for the game. "This was an experience of a lifetime," said Nolan Pierce (Class of 2027), "and I would recommend it to any future Stanford Rugby players. Being able to increase my Rugby IQ, improve my skills, and get stronger in the gym with a guided training plan allowed me to come back as a much more disciplined and skilled player." Armed with new skills, fresh perspectives, and a wealth of experiences, they are eager to share their journey with their teammates and to bring the lessons they learned in New Zealand to the Stanford rugby pitch.

This journey was more than just about rugby; it was about personal growth, cultural exchange, and forging lifelong memories. The players return to Stanford with a deepened love for the game, inspired by their time in one of rugby's great heartlands, and ready to take on new challenges with the same dedication and spirit that drove them to New Zealand in the first place.