July 23rd 2024.
Naya Tapper, an exceptional women's rugby player, has recently been named co-captain of the U.S. Sevens team for the upcoming Olympics. This is a huge accomplishment for Tapper, who previously excelled in track and field at West Mecklenburg High School. She is set to retire after the 2024 Olympics, making this leadership role even more meaningful to her.
In a recent interview with WCNC Charlotte, Tapper expressed her excitement about the impact her role as co-captain can have on young athletes. As a woman of color from Charlotte, North Carolina, she hopes to inspire others who may share a similar background. Tapper also acknowledged the weight of her responsibilities, with the Olympics quickly approaching and retirement on the horizon.
Her journey in women's rugby began at the University of North Carolina in 2012, after a successful high school career in track and field. She quickly made a name for herself in the Sevens world, debuting at the 2016 Sao Paulo Sevens tournament. That same year, she also earned her first XVs cap with the USA Women's National Team. Tapper's skills were further showcased in the 2017 Rugby World Cup, where she played a key role in the team's semifinal appearance.
When asked about her playing style, Tapper described herself as a versatile player, known for her speed and powerful stiff arm on offense, as well as her defensive skills. Her agility and physicality can be traced back to her childhood, where she was always active and loved playing contact sports with the boys in her neighborhood. Her mother, Juanita Nater-Tapper, proudly supports her daughter's success and notes her natural leadership abilities.
After a successful career with USA Rugby, Tapper announced her retirement in 2024. As she prepares for her second Olympics as co-captain, she is determined to bring home the gold medal for her team. The 2020 Tokyo Olympics may not have ended as she had hoped, with the Sevens team finishing sixth, but Tapper is eager for redemption in Paris and is focused on achieving their ultimate goal of winning the gold. Her dedication and drive make her one of the best players in the sport, and she will undoubtedly leave a lasting legacy in women's rugby.
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