🏉 Name: Alex Anderson-Kahl
🏅 Position: Lock
🏠 Team: Columbia Outlaw Rugby
Q: How did you first get involved with rugby?
A: "Well, when I moved to Columbia, I randomly met a former Outlaw player downtown. He encouraged me to check out the team. I attended a touch rugby session, and right away, I knew this was my sport. The energy and camaraderie were just infectious."
Q: What motivates you every time you step onto the field?
A: "It’s definitely the thrill of the game – that rush of adrenaline. But more than that, it’s about the bonds I share with my teammates. We're a unit, both on and off the field. Our shared warm-ups and stretches might seem simple, but doing them together really sets the tone for us."
Q: Have you faced any significant challenges in your rugby career?
A: "Yeah, definitely. When I first started the season, I wasn't in great shape. But the team was incredibly supportive. We focused on conditioning, and I ended up losing over 20 pounds! Also, I had to learn the game pretty fast, but with our coach’s help and the team’s support, I managed to catch up quickly."
Q: What does being part of the Columbia Outlaw Rugby team mean to you?
A: "Being an Outlaw is about more than just playing rugby. It's about the community we've built. We're not just teammates; we're friends who love hanging out and having fun together. The team's culture is vibrant and dynamic, making every gathering, whether for a game or just to chill, really exciting."
Q: What do you like to do when you’re not playing rugby?
A: "I'm pretty big on other sports, gaming, trivia nights, and movies. These are great ways for me to relax and take a break from the rugby world."
Q: How do you manage your rugby commitments with your personal life?
A: "I think I've got a pretty good handle on balancing everything. Rugby, with just two practices a week and weekend games, fits well into my schedule. It's all about finding that balance between the sport and other aspects of life."
Q: What are your personal and team goals for the future?
A: "Personally, I’m working on increasing my speed to hopefully move into a back position. As for the team, I really want to see our program grow with more players and more energy around the game."
Q: How do you engage with the community and promote rugby?
A: "I’m always talking rugby, even with Uber drivers! I also had a fun opportunity to talk about Outlaw Rugby on local TV. My goal is always to get more people interested and involved in the sport."
Q: What’s your favorite part of practice?
A: "Playing touch rugby is definitely my favorite. It's not just about the physical aspect; it’s about how we move as a team, finding spaces and connecting on a deeper level during the game."
Q: What life lessons has rugby taught you?
A: "Rugby has taught me the importance of being both a teammate and a friend. It’s given me a group of guys I can rely on, in both good times and bad. It's more than just a game – it’s about the people you share it with."
