This is the first of a series of photo essays featuring sporting events around Tennessee. Sometimes words can put you right there, but nothing replaces the images that convey the passionate conviction players invest in being a part of the game.
Far from the crowds, the big contracts and the glitz and glamour, a group of young women gather for an afternoon competition.
This is not your mama's day school field day (which was probably more brutal than you imagined). These women have chosen to play rugby, a tough, relentless game that takes more than a little heart and grit.
The game was the season closer. It took place on April 30th at the NSCC south campus. Knoxville Women's Rugby Football Club, the visiting team, came to compete and eventually win a higher seed in the division championships.
Who attends NWRFC games? Proud family members, fans, friends and SO's (who deserve their own special kudos for patience and tender ministrations after a hard day on the pitch).
Who else should be there? How about you? Don't let your lack of rugby knowledge stop you from at least giving it a try. Rugby is exciting, it appeals to my artist's eye and it's tough! Still not convinced? Admission is free. So there you go. Give it a try and you'll discover a game that will have you standing and cheering for the ladies wearing your hometown colors!
For more information about the Nashville Womens Rugby Football Club, please vist their website: NWRFC
If you're in Knoxville, please visit the Knoxville club's home page: KWRFC
Want more pictures? Enjoy the slideshow:
Thank you...
First to Lindsay Wieczorek for being so gracious and patient as I finished covering the NHL playoff season.
To the amazing women of the Nashville and Knoxville rugby clubs, in 1300+ photos, it came down to what didn't get eaten by Picasa or was out of focus. There was no shortage of emotion or action on any given shot.
Nashville
CJ Kiekens
Megan Gilbreth
Rainy Valerio
Kathleen O'Neill
Blue Williams
Carissa Cooper
Lindsay Wieczorek
Angie Denney
Jewelia Hartley
Christina Miller
Kellie Hurst
Molly Moore
Chelsea Baker
Jasmine Ma
Kerrie Knox
Billie Cutillo
Allette Vayda
Laura LaFlemme
Carrie Anderson
Coach: Christopher Smolnicky
Knoxville
Maegan Buchanan
Bonnie Hudson
Maggie Behringer
Cana Stevenson
Sam Yellen
Nancy Campbell
Joce Campbell
Katie Oliver
Tina Nguyen
Cindy Brown
Becky Mumper
Krissy Cooney
Amy Hamilton
Rachel Gilson
Susannah Crawford
Mary White
Chelsea Love
Coach: Sarah Deane
