A few weeks ago I packed up my car and headed south to Chula Vista, California to train with the USA Rugby Team.  I am excited for my new adventure, but also understand the grit and the work effort the sport demands.  Every day I feel challenged whether it is physically or mentally.  Each day I learn as much as I can and then try and retain all the information and put it into practice the following day.  I am amazed by the willingness of the team to answer any questions I have and assist me with the many mistakes I make. 

It is surreal that after spending the past year working and going to school, I now find myself again in an environment where I am surrounded by the Olympic rings and Olympic Champions.  Although I understand this will definitely not be an easy road, I am looking forward to having the opportunity to experience high level athletics from a different perspective and to see how my body and mind can adapt.  Tune in next time….  

Thank You All Blues!

All Blue Family,

I wanted to share some exciting news with all of you.  Recently, I was offered an opportunity to train full time in Chula Vista for the next few months and after much thought I have decided to go for it.  I cannot thank you all enough for your love, encouragement, patience and support throughout the past year.  You made me feel comfortable and included and I know I have gained some lifelong friends in the bay area.

When I first moved here a little over a year ago, I was lost and struggling to find my way.  I was coming off a pretty complex and upsetting end to my Bobsled career and was unclear where that left me.  Thanks to my friends Jenny and Mari Triplett I made my way directly out the All Blues where I was met by Coach Chou and Coach Kate and two days later found myself playing my first rugby game!  It has been an unexpectedly quick progression, but I am grateful for this opportunity.

I am truly falling in love with the sport and most of all the amazing rugby community.  I am excited to take with me all that I have learned from each of you and hope to make the All Blues proud!  Thank you for being so accepting.  Bigger Better Bluer!

Emily Azevedo

Sisterly Love

A week ago my sisters and I were able to go to a Garth Brooks concert together.  We had great seats (thanks to Geneva hooking it up) and experienced an amazing show.   I always love getting a chance to spend time with my sisters especially now that we are older and are really able to appreciate each other.  In the previous years I have been very focused on training and competing and because of this often times missed little get togethers like this.  I find myself truly appreciating the time I have been able to share with my sisters throughout the past year.  I did not realize how nice it would be to be home and included in on events I use to miss out on.  I am looking forward to the next adventure we share together!

Help Lady Cavaliers get to Nationals!

The Cavaliers have qualified to play in the High School Rugby National Championships in May, but are in need of financial support to make their trip a reality.  The girls are reigning Divisions 2 National Champions and are looking to move up to Division 1 this season.  Click on the link below to hear their story and to support the team!  Thank you!

https://app.snap-raise.com/fundraisers/2686/participant/64885

Recently the Pleasanton Cavaliers played a well fought match against the Sacramento Amazons.  The Amazons are a well-established rugby club known for being aggressive and shifty.  Many of these young players have grown up playing rugby for a most of their lives and know the sport like the back of their hand.  The Amazons definitely live up to their name and are always a tough team to take on.  The Cavaliers prepared themselves mentally and physically for the match and were able to execute an established game plan.   The victory was a milestone for the Cavaliers Rugby Club and a testament to the staff and the growth of girl’s rugby in the tri valley and the bay area.

Prior to the match the girls were told to write down the name of a person that had impacted them.  They each put the names in their sock as a reminder that they were playing for someone other than themselves and their teammates.   The girls played with heart and refused to back down to opponents much larger in size.   After the game I was approached by one of the players and was told by her she wrote my name down.   I was incredibly moved by her gesture and proud that I had positively affected her rugby experience.   I am proud to be a part of the Cavaliers coaching staff and I am looking forward to continuing to helping the girls improve and grow.  Congrats Lady Cavs!!  

http://www.goffrugbyreport.com/news/cavs-stand-zons

 

Las Vegas Sevens Tournament!

Recently I came across an email from a former coach that I thought I would share.  Thank you to everyone who has supported me over the years!  

I have been following you on the web (from a distance!) and just want you to know how proud I am of you.  Knowing you as a hurdler at UCD, you worked your butt off and I know that has been what you have been doing ever since you became a bobsledder.  You are an inspiration for taking chances, going all in, never giving up, and getting the best out of yourself.  Don’t let this hurdle (no pun intended) get in your way.  Just smash through it rather than jumping over it.  Whatever you decide to do moving forward, I know you will give it your all and be successful.

 

I can’t even imagine the experiences you have had these past 7+ years and I am excited for what the future holds for you.  I know that there are a lot of people that are proud of you and you have inspired many.  To me, you epitomize what an athlete should be – tough, dedicated, fearless, and determined.