The Irish rugby player on representation in sport …
Linda is one of the featured players in Women’s Rugby World Cup 2025’s Strong Bodies, Strong Minds campaign which is aimed at empowering women and girls by sparking a conversation around body confidence in sport.
Why is this campaign important to you?
It’s incredibly close to my heart because it highlights the connection between physical and mental wellbeing. As a professional athlete, I know that strength isn’t just about physical power, it’s also about mindset, resilience, and self-worth. Empowering women and girls to see themselves as strong in every sense is something I deeply believe in, and I really want to show rugby as a place where everyone can belong.
Did you experience issues around confidence when you were growing up? If so, what helped you move forward?
Absolutely. I didn’t grow up playing sport, so when I first started rugby I felt out of place. I questioned whether I had a place in that environment. What helped me move forward was surrounding myself with supportive people and slowly learning to trust in my own journey. Rugby is a sport that champions individuality.
Has playing rugby professionally helped your own self body confidence?
Without a doubt. Rugby taught me to value my body for what it can do rather than how it looks. I’ve learned to appreciate my strength, endurance, and how my body supports me through training, matches, and recovery. That shift in perspective has been incredibly empowering.
In your opinion, how can young girls be encouraged to stay in sport into their teenage years and beyond?
Representation and support are key. Girls need to see people who look like them thriving in sport. They also need environments where they feel included and heard. Coaches, schools, and clubs must create safe and fun spaces where performance isn’t everything, and the social, mental, and emotional benefits of sport are valued just as much. The tournament is a real moment in time to share this message and inspire others to see rugby for all the sport has to offer on and off the pitch.
How do you prepare for a tournament like the Rugby Women’s World Cup?
It’s a combination of physical training, mental preparation, and recovery. I focus on being consistent in my routines, from nutrition and sleep, to skills work and gym sessions. I also make sure I’m mentally tuned in by working with performance staff, journaling, and leaning on my teammates for support.
What drives you forward on tough days?
I always go back to my “why.” I think about how far I’ve come, the people who’ve supported me, and the younger version of myself who never imagined being here. I remind myself that hard days are part of the journey, and showing up even when it’s tough is a win in itself.
Do you think your background in nursing influences the player that you are, or do you try to keep these two parts of your life quite separate?
I think they influence each other more than I expected. Nursing taught me patience, empathy, and how to stay calm under pressure; all qualities that carry over into my rugby career. Both roles are about care, discipline, and teamwork, so there’s definitely a crossover.
How do you switch off and enjoy your downtime?
I love being near water, going for walks by the sea, or even just being outdoors in nature helps me relax. I also enjoy cooking, catching up with friends and family, and just having a laugh. Switching off doesn’t have to be big or fancy, it’s the little things that help me recharge.
Are there any self-care rituals that help ground you when life gets busy?
Journalling has become a big part of my routine. It helps me process what’s going on and keeps me grounded. I also try to stick to a good sleep routine and make time for quiet moments, even if it’s just five minutes with a cup of tea and no phone. Those small pauses make a big difference.
Everyone has different self-care routines and it’s really important to do what makes you feel good. #StrongBodiesStrongMinds is all about doing what makes you feel good and encouraging young girls to be unapologetic while doing it.
Every body belongs in sport. Join the conversation online to inspire a new generation to feel strong and confident in whatever they do. #WhereWeBelong
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