Lee rugby players recognized as NCR All American players

In March, National Collegiate Rugby released the names of the Women’s All American award winners for the Fall 2021 season and recognized Lee players Siena Macy and Braeden List. 

The NCR Women’s All American program recognizes student athletes who have earned the distinct honor of being top performers in the fall of 2021. 

List, a sophomore nursing major and Sharp-Davis chaplain, joined the rugby team in the fall of 2021. Though she’s new to the game, List has quickly become a key player.

List joined the team because she was intrigued by the possibility of a new experience. She wasn’t looking for community, but said it found her. Through the many practices, games and road trips, List said the team has become a tight-knit group. 

“It was rewarding,” List said of her national recognition. “I started the fall season knowing nothing about the sport, and I have had coaches and teammates who have been so kind and taught me very well, and it’s exciting to be recognized… it just felt very uplifting. I didn’t expect it.” 

Macy, a junior nursing major and team captain, has played for Lee’s rugby team since her freshman year. Macy grew up playing soccer, but when she came to Lee, she decided to try rugby. 

She has played a variety of positions on the team, but currently plays as the flyhalf. 

This is not Macy’s first time being recognized by the NCR. Because of COVID-19 restrictions last year, the team didn’t get to play their spring season, but division 1 schools were still able to play in national tournaments, however. The restrictions resulted in the Lee women’s rugby team partnering with other teams from the region to create an all-star team to take to the Collegiate Rugby Championship. 

“I was selected from that tournament for another All-Star tournament,” said Macy. “We played in Little Rock, Arkansas against the U-23 USA team – the highest level rugby I’ve ever seen, and I got to play. That was my first recognition from National Collegiate Rugby.” 

During her time on the team, Macy has developed a love for the sport and doesn’t plan on quitting soon. 

“It meant a lot to be recognized for this season, especially because I’ve really pushed myself to be a leader on the field. Receiving the captain status from my coach for this year was really special. I’ve gotten to be a captain alongside Anna Gilliam, who is one of my best friends on the field. To be recognized for my actual skills on the field was really special,” said Macy. “It’s always special – but especially with the amount of skill that we have cultivated in the last four months – like [Braeden], who started five months ago and is now being recognized at a national level. That’s awesome.”

The Small College All American list includes players from 13 universities across the nation. 

“These players’ passion and tenacity are what is bringing women’s rugby to the forefront.  I have the utmost respect for these talented women and am excited for what is to come from each of them,” said Small College Commissioner Jessie Blitz. “These players have elevated the play of their teams through their individual efforts and deserve to be recognized. Congratulations to all players listed; we can’t wait to see what you do next.” 

Macy and List are looking forward to the rest of their spring season, but also to fall 2022 and the opportunities it will bring. 

“I cannot wait to see the huge influx of the new players this year turn into returning players next year,” said Macy. “They’re going to impact the new players coming in, especially just because this year has been so transformational for the club.”

“As someone who’s new this year, it was such a highlight of my year. I’m excited just to pour into the new freshmen who join or anyone else who gets to be on the team next year,” said List. “This is such a fun time and sweet group, and you get to just be a part of it and hopefully love it as much as we do.” 

The rugby team encourages anyone interested to join. 

“Anybody can play rugby,” said Macy. “Rugby has taught me how to be confident as a woman, has taught me how to be part of a team sport. Nobody can do everything. We need every kind of person. We need fast people, we need powerful people – there’s no picture-perfect person for rugby.” 

For more information and updates about the team, follow their Instagram.