I thought I would share an email I received from a former teammate that I recently stumbled upon:

I know I don't try to inspire you often other than yelling at you or trying to "toughen you up". But I wanted to share this with you. I like John Wooden quotes. I have never been more proud to have been associated with someone. I hope you can take the time to believe that this is what makes you successful...

John Wooden coined his definition of success as, “peace of mind, attained only through self-satisfaction and knowing you made the effort to do the best that you are capable.” He continues, “If you make the effort to do the best of what you’re capable and improve the situation that exists for you, I think that’s success and I don’t think others can judge that. I think it’s like character and reputation. Your reputation is what you’re perceived to be. Your character is what you really are. And I think your character is much more important than what you’re perceived to be.”

Many studies have shown that it can from 5,000 to 10,000 repetitions to learn a new skill.  When I first started playing rugby I began to keep track of approximately how many quality passes I made each day of training.  Because I never participated in a sport requiring throwing I knew that it would take me the upper end of repetitions to gain the muscle memory for this new skill.  Passing is only one element of rugby.  There are many new skills that I learn daily and work towards performing quality repetitions of each.    Fortunately I have had various athletic experiences and rely on skills I have learned to transfer over to aspects of rugby.  

Gymnastic was my very first sport and a platform that has enabled me to excel in different sports.  Gymnastic played a key role in establishing body awareness, strength and speed.  I transferred these skills initially to soccer and track and field and then eventually to bobsled.  Although rugby is a completely different type of sport then I have ever participated in I am hopeful that the repetitions and skills I have already learned will transfer over.

Congrats to the Lady Cavaliers on their 19-10 win over Saint Joseph Academy today at the National High School Rugby Championships to finish #5 in Division 1 in the USA!!

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