For Rugby Player Eunice Chu, the Goal is to Challenge Stereotypes

In Beyond Convention, we ask national rugby player Eunice Chu what constitutes a strong woman. "Being able to venture and seek what you truly dream of and not let others deter you."

For national rugby player and qualified physical trainer Eunice Chu, a career in sports has always been on the cards. After testing out the waters in fields like netball, athletics and Taekwondo, Chu has since honed her abilities in agility, sportsmanship, and discipline for her sport of choice: Rugby – an activity she fell in love with for its strong team dynamics.

Through her sport, Chu wishes to change the conventional mindset rooted in traditionally masculine sports. When asked what she wishes people wouldn’t misunderstand about women in rugby, she elaborates, “that we as women have to fit a certain stereotype or be compared to male rugby athletes – manly looking, burly and buff to play in these sports.”

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As someone who has dabbled in multiple sports growing up, what made you choose rugby to pursue a professional career in?

I told my parents that I got bored of competing in individual sports despite having running groups, pacers, sparring buddies and relays. I had a taste of contact sports growing up with Taekwondo sparring where I competed in the Flyweight Under 49kg class and bagged a silver medal and a bashed-up nose.

It was what sparked my interest in contact sports, and rugby ended up becoming the one. I guess nothing can compare to that camaraderie formed with this group of ladies who put their bodies on the line for you out there on the field – quite literally!

Rugby is a stereotypically masculine sport often associated with the imagery of burly men and physical aggression. What comments have you gotten since you've started competing professionally?

I would simply smile or laugh at such remarks. As you can tell by looking at me, I’m the total opposite of masculine. Pint-sized at 158cm and 50kg. People would think I’m joking when telling them about my hobby and sport. The most common reaction would be “Rugby? You mean touch rugby?”

The common notion of being buff, big or masculine is still there, but I do get supportive responses and curious questions – about my playing position, or that I must be really fast. Or if I’ve sustained any injuries – a couple here and there.

Have you ever found yourself challenging the notions of femininity with your rugby career?

Always. I started out with a pixie haircut, mainly because it made life a little easier. I had a lacklustre attitude in terms of dressing up back then, but I guess everything changed along the way as I entered the working world. Even as a personal trainer, I’ve come across masculine-looking female bodybuilders. And honestly, they look so good!

What sacrifices did you have to make to excel in such a sport?

I wouldn’t say it’s all sacrifices. They’re more like changes that moulded me to become a better athlete and person for myself and my team. Having to juggle work, rugby practices, strength and conditioning sessions, I have to make sure I get adequate sleep, hydration and nutrition to refuel and perform the various tasks for the days and weeks.

This made me more disciplined and aware of my responsibilities in every possible aspect of day to day life. I’ll also make the time to head out and meet a couple of mates for drinks.

What is your definition of a strong woman?

Being able to venture and seek what you truly dream of and not let others deter you. I’m really fortunate to have crossed paths with many like-minded individuals who are the definition of strong women – my mother, my colleagues at UFIT, my former rugby coach, Shao Ing, who is also on the World Rugby judiciary committee, and my teammates. Each of us battles different challenges in our own corners.

I look up to athletes like Faith Kipyegon who holds the 1500m Olympics Record, NZ shotput thrower Valerie Adams who is also a mother of two, Black Ferns’ 7s Captain Sarah Hirini, and Australia 7s’ Charlotte Caslick. They all play a pivotal role in paving the way for the next generation of female athletes – and I hope to be that inspiration to our next generation of female athletes.