1975 Sexist OSU Newsletter
The Old Man, the newsletter of the Ohio State University Men’s Rugby club announced the formation of the Ohio State women’s team. Note the graphic illustration of a female player.
1977 The Pitch
The Tube and the Pitch, two different Ohio State Women’s team newsletters from 1977 show the grassroots organizing, bawdy nature of women’s rugby at the time.
Support us today!
When you contribute to the U.S. Women’s Rugby Foundation you become part of a movement to support girls and women involved in rugby.
We are a 501(c) (3) non-profit organization.
All donations made are tax deductible.
Support us today!
When you contribute to the U.S. Women’s Rugby Foundation you become part of a movement to support girls and women involved in rugby.
We are a 501(c) (3) non-profit organization.
All donations made are tax deductible.
Kamyia Rivers
Age: 23
From: Memphis, TN
Job that pays the bills: Forward Specialist Head and Assistant Rugby Coach for Memphis Inner City Rugby & ESL (English as a Second Language) Teacher for Literacy Mid-South
Rugby life:
Captain of The Soulsville Charter School Girls Rugby Team (2017-2019)
USA South Panther Rugby Las Vegas 7s (2018-2019)
Stoney River 7s State Champion (2017)
Memphis Inner City Rugby Allstars (2016-2019)
Memphis Inner City Rugby All Stars State Champions (2017-2019)
Tennessee Tri-Stars Rugby Champions Indiana (2018)
Captain of Tennessee Tri-Stars Rugby Champions Richmond, Virginia (2019)
MICR Forward Specialist Coach for Soulsville High School Girls Rugby (2024)
Tennessee State Champions Soulsville High School Girls Rugby 15s (2023) Forward Specialist Coach
Why we love Kamyia:
Kamyia Rivers is a dynamic force in her community, seamlessly blending her roles as a dedicated mother, passionate educator, and accomplished athlete. At just 23 years old, Kamyia exemplifies resilience and leadership, shaping the lives of those around her while pursuing her own ambitious goals
Speaker for MICR at the Women’s Foundation Fundraiser (2018)
High school & College Freshman Mentor for Memphis Inner City Rugby MICR Head Coach of Soulsville Middle School Rugby (2024)
"Kamyia holds a Bachelor’s degree in English Literature, with a concentration in Technical and Creative Writing and a minor in Africana Studies from the University of Tennessee, Knoxville, where she graduated in May 2023. Currently, she is pursuing a Master’s in Education Administration with a focus on Higher Education at Strayer University, aiming to graduate in June 2025. Kamyia aspires to become the Dean of the English Department at prestigious institutions such as Arizona State University, the University of Southern California, or her alma mater, UT Knoxville. As an ESL teacher at Literacy Mid-South, Kamyia passionately supports students in overcoming language barriers, fostering an inclusive learning environment that empowers her students to achieve their goals.
Beyond her professional and athletic commitments, Kamyia is a devoted mother of two children under the age of two. Balancing motherhood with her various roles, she embodies the strength and determination that characterize her life. Her ability to juggle family responsibilities while striving for excellence in her career and sports is a testament to her unwavering dedication and resilience. Kamyia Rivers is not just an athlete, educator, and mother; she is a role model who inspires those around her to pursue their passions and make a difference in their communities. With her sights set on a bright future, Kamyia is poised to leave a lasting impact in every endeavor she undertakes."
All photos provided by the award recipient