Sammy Sullivan Returns to US Rugby Squad for World Sevens in New York
Sammy Sullivan has been recalled to the USA Rugby women's squad for this weekend's world sevens tournament, marking her comeback after a six-month absence due to her duties as a captain in the US Army. The HSBC SVNS event will be held at Sports Illustrated Stadium in Harrison, New Jersey, just a short ride from downtown Manhattan, with the governing body closely monitoring the competition as it unfolds at the end of a north-eastern winter.
A Unique American Rugby Journey
Sullivan's path to rugby is a distinctly American story. She discovered the sport in college, but her connection to it began much earlier. "When I was little, like 7, and we were living in northern California, most army installations had a rugby team," Sullivan explained. Her father, a Green Beret, played rugby, and she grew up watching clips of teams like the Black Ferns and All Blacks, initially thinking it was a "bosh sport."
Her dream was to play college soccer and attend the United States Military Academy at West Point. However, after failing to secure a spot on the soccer team, rugby coach Bill LeClerc reached out to her, leading to a pivotal shift. "One door closes, another door opens, for sure," Sullivan reflected.
Balancing Rugby and Military Service
West Point provided a rigorous environment that Sullivan believes was instrumental in her development. "I don't know if I could have gotten through West Point and become the officer I am today without rugby," she said, noting how the sport's high-pressure decisions translate directly to military service. After graduating in 2020, she fulfilled her platoon leadership duties, which aligned with the postponed Tokyo Olympics, allowing her to maintain her rugby skills by playing in Denver.
Sullivan's military background has shaped her approach to rugby, emphasizing resilience and teamwork. "The army is a bond unlike any other. People from all backgrounds, coming together for a common goal. It's like being on a sports team," she added.
Overcoming Injuries and Olympic Success
At the 2024 Paris Olympics, Sullivan played a key role in the US women's team winning a historic bronze medal, despite battling injuries. She dealt with a torn labrum and a sprained collarbone just before the Games, but persevered with the help of trainer Nicole Titmus. "I could not have done that without Nicole Titmus," Sullivan acknowledged, highlighting the importance of support systems.
Reflecting on Paris, she emphasized the team's bond and the significance of their achievement under coach Emilie Bydwell, the first female head coach at the Olympics. "I'll forever remember the hugs after the score that won the bronze," Sullivan said, noting how the victory showcased the team's growth from fifth and sixth-place finishes to the podium.
Rebuilding and Future Prospects
Following the Olympics, the US team has faced a transition period, with many players moving on. However, Sullivan sees promise in younger talents like Sariah Ibarra, 20, and Tahna Wilfley, 19. "Sariah, I have no doubt, is going to be a huge leader on this team," she said, praising Ibarra's calmness and skill. Of Wilfley, Sullivan noted, "I see so much of myself in her work ethic, her determination."
She believes rugby is growing in America, citing the team's recent third-place finish in Vancouver as evidence of their resilience. "Rugby is growing in America, 100%," Sullivan asserted, pointing to the grit shown by new players.
Facing Adversity in New York
As the HSBC SVNS event approaches, Sullivan and her teammates are preparing for challenging weather conditions in New York, with cold, windy, and rainy forecasts. "We've been really working on our attention and awareness in adversity," she said, viewing it as an opportunity to test their mettle.
Off the field, Sullivan finds balance through her hobby of building Lego sets, which she describes as therapeutic. "It's just such a great way to turn your brain off," she explained, encouraging others to embrace their passions. Her social media presence, much like teammate Ilona Maher's, aims to promote authenticity and work-life balance.
With the US women's team currently third in the season standings and set for Championship tournaments later this year, Sullivan's return adds experience and leadership as they aim for success on home soil this weekend.
