Written by: Quincy Bentley | Sports Editor
Western’s women’s+ rugby team has taken the Cascade Conference by storm this season. Finishing the fall season with an undefeated 13-0 record, the team is dominating on the field. Representing more than just athletic success, the Wolves have built a program rooted in inclusivity and teamwork.
Western’s rugby team is rewriting the playbook on inclusivity in sports. While rugby has historically been male-dominated, Western’s team is proving that there can be a space for anyone who wants to play. Jaylin Emond-Hardin, a junior on the team who also works with “The Western Howl,” emphasized its unique approach by saying, “It’s a movement for inclusivity. We love the saying ‘rugby is for everyone’ because it’s true. Women’s+ means anyone, whether cis, trans or gender non-conforming, are encouraged to join.” This policy fosters an environment where athletes of all backgrounds can thrive and feel welcome.
While inclusivity is the heart of the program, the team’s athletic achievements are undeniable. Competing as a club sport, the Wolves play in the Cascade Conference along with schools such as Willamette University, the University of Puget Sound and the combined team of Reed College and Lewis & Clark University. Throughout the fall season, Western showed everyone in attendance that they were the team to watch out for.
Behind the Wolves’ success are several standout players who have delivered exceptional performances this fall. Estela Miranda-Aguilar, a senior scrum, plays a role comparable to a quarterback in football, directing plays and orchestrating the offense. Her 14 tries this season highlight her scoring ability, while her leadership also earned her the Back MVP award. Emily Moore, the senior flyhalf, leads the team in tries with 17 this season. Moore’s consistent ability to score and create opportunities for teammates has been an imperative factor in the team’s success. Journey Petry, a first-year prop, came to rugby with a background in high school tackle football, and her defensive skills have transferred smoothly. Petry is known for her hard-hitting tackles, and she has proven to be a reliable presence on the field. Lastly, while being a full-time student and a student employee, Emond-Hardin has found a way to balance rugby, school and her work at “The Western Howl.” This season, she was recognized by her coaches and teammates as the hardest worker. Emond-Hardin credits much of her growth as a player to observing her skilled teammates Petry, Miranda and Moore.
For many players, club sports offer more than just a chance to compete — they provide a sense of belonging. Emond-Hardin spoke about how the Rugby team has shaped her college experience by saying, “Rugby is a great community. It is very open and welcoming, and I have felt a part of the team since I joined freshman year.” Having played sports her whole life, Jaylin was introduced to rugby through a high school ex-boyfriend who played the sport. Since then, she has embraced it as a way to stay active and engaged at Western.
While the fall season has come to a close, the Wolves are already setting ambitious goals for spring. Last year, they achieved a national ranking of 14th, but they’re determined to improve on that in 2025. With their current momentum, strong leadership and dedication, a higher ranking is well within their reach. As the Wolves prepare for spring, they carry the hopes of their university and the broader rugby community. Whether they’re crushing tackles on the field or breaking barriers off of it, Western’s women’s rugby team is a great example of what club sports have to offer.
Contact the author at howlsports@mail.wou.edu
