On Dec. 3, 2023, the Marin Highlanders women’s rugby team hosted a clinic at Terra Linda High School from 1-3 p.m., welcoming students of all skill levels to participate. The event aimed to introduce newcomers to the sport, refine the skills of veteran players and cultivate a sense of camaraderie within the local community.
Among the participants was freshman Emily Muller who attended the clinic for the first time, having learned about the team through a friend. Notably, her father Martin Muller, a former coach for the middle and high school boys’ team and college player, has a longstanding connection to the sport.
“I saw it as a bit of a masculine sport at first. I don’t think it’s targeted towards women and was a little nervous to say I was doing this, but it was so fun and competitive I don’t think [anyone] should be embarrassed at all,” Emily said.
Emily’s experience aligned with Coach Kevin Sullivan’s aim to popularize women’s rugby. Her experience highlights how engaging in new activities can help dispel personal misconceptions.
Sullivan explains that the sport embraces inclusivity, supporting individuals of all body types.
“We figure out what your strength is and we keep you there. We don’t force you into something that you’re not,” Sullivan said.
With 15 seasons right around the corner, referring to the traditional 15 versus 15 player format in rugby, the clinic served as a gateway for prospective players. Celeste Perez, the team parent and mother to juniors Lily and Lucy Perez, reflected on the impact of rugby on young players.
“Rugby has given [Lily and Lucy] so much self-confidence. It’s given them something to look forward to,” Celeste said. “The basic premise of rugby is you get out there and fight on the field; it’s a real brother-sister hood sport.”
In 2019, Lily and Lucy, along with Sullivan, founded a women’s rugby team. Since then, they’ve cultivated an empowering environment, warmly welcoming everyone.
“Just come and try. If it’s not the right thing, you can come for as long as you want without committing and you’re always welcome,” Lucy said.
The positive influence o
f rugby on individuals is evident in the narrative of player Sabine Fuchs, a junior at The Branson School, who elaborated on how rugby has changed her self-image.
“It changed my perception of my body, [turning it] from an object of appearance [into] a tool of strength. Rugby helped me see my body as something powerful and something I am proud of regardless of how it looks because of what it can do,” Fuchs said.
As the Marin Highlanders gear up for the upcoming season, their message is clear: rugby is not just a sport. It is a community, a family and an opportunity for growth. The team welcomes new players of all skill levels, embodying the spirit of inclusivity that defines the sport.
