By Rachel Barrett-Trangmar
In just a short space of time Elise Howard has made great progress in the world of Caribbean rugby, proving that anything is possible with ambition and determination.
I understand that you are a keen rugby player, how did you initially become interested in this sport?
I grew up near Toulouse in France, renowned for its invincible rugby team ‘Stade Toulousain’. Rugby therefore had a significant impact on my local community, including my father and brother who were keen players. Although I was interested in the sport, I never actually played rugby at school, apart from a friendly match when I recall handling the oval-shaped ball. It was in fact here on St Barts that I first started to play rugby competitively – just eighteen months ago!
What is it like playing rugby as a woman?
It is now a lot more accepted for women to play rugby, particularly given the recent Paris Olympics, which included some high profile female players. However, I do occasionally get the odd judgemental comment about rugby being a man’s sport; while others expect women rugby players to be masculine … but we certainly prove them wrong, demonstrating that it is a game for all to play.
Would you say that you have a natural talent for rugby?
I am inherently sporty and have always trained to develop my own physical strength. I am also a keen runner, which is a great advantage in rugby. In fact, my sprinting skills surprised the other members of my team during our first game. I undoubtedly enjoy the sport, which helps to quickly learn the tactics and rules of the game, including how to tackle, defend, attack and pass the ball correctly.
Do you play for a particular rugby team?
I play for the ‘Rascasses’ (‘Scorpion Fish’), which is the women’s rugby team of the St Barts Barracuda Rugby Club. The Rascasses began as a group of friends getting together to play rugby. They then took it to another level by getting a coach to train them, which encouraged more women to join the team. It was in fact a member of the Rascasses who invited me along to one of their training sessions. I was looking for a sporting interest at the time; nevertheless I was initially hesitant, lacking confidence to take part, but I certainly had no regrets once I started playing.
Have you competed in any championships?
Soon after joining the Rascasses, I played for the ‘Iles du Nord’ rugby team, composed of players from St Barts and St Martin as neither island has enough members. We competed against the three championship teams in Guadeloupe, and I actually scored a try in my very first game. I recollect the exhilaration of running with the ball in the last few minutes of the game, which helped us win the match. I was consequently selected to play in the Guadeloupe versus Martinique match – when I scored even more tries. This in turn resulted in my being chosen for the Guadeloupe Sevens, competing in the Antilles-Guyana Tournament. I was really proud to be on the winning team, especially as I was the first St Barts player to return with a Sevens trophy!
How do you balance your work life with your rugby playing?When I’m not on the rugby field I work for a wine and spirits store. Initially, the long hours at work limited my free time, which prevented me from training and playing rugby as much as I wished. Thankfully, I have an understanding boss who has found a way for me to work mornings, attend evening practises and weekend games.
How has rugby influenced your life and what are your objectives in the world of rugby?
Being part of a rugby team brings a lot of fulfilment and satisfaction, along with camaraderie. I now consider my fellow team members as family, and we share a lot of experiences together. As far as the future is concerned, my talent for the game will hopefully attract the attention of others to enable me to further my rugby career. I believe that trust, faith and ambition are the keys to success.
Have you any particular message that you would like to share with the readers of Coccoloba?
Anyone with an interest in rugby is more than welcome to come along to a training session – every Friday night at seven o’clock. On the small island of St Barts there are surprisingly many sporting opportunities for those with an interest and motivation … I am proof that we can all tackle life’s challenges and make our dreams come true!
