When Shylea Knapp graduated from Salem High School in 2022, she had no idea the opportunities that would come her way in college. Ready to try something new, Knapp attended a welcome fair at Ball State University her first year and discovered the sport of rugby. The sport changed her life and has opened up doors she didn’t realize were possible.
Having never played rugby before, Knapp had a lot to learn, but she quickly realized she was meant to play the sport and is now one of the top 100 rugby players in the nation.
“When I was first learning, it was difficult to get all the rules down as they change between styles of rugby,” said Knapp. She even racked up some penalties in her first year while on that learning curve.
But she didn’t give up and she kept playing and learning. She said her favorite part of competition is the community with rugby.
“I’m mainly grateful for being able to play at that level,” said Knapp. Being president of her rugby team for the last two years has been her favorite part of college and under her leadership, her team has grown to a level they have never been at before.
Knapp’s love for the game has led her to be one of the top 100 college rugby players in the country, giving her an opportunity to play in an All Star tournament.
“Being a 2026 All Star means that I can solidify myself being able to play at the highest level in college rugby,” she said. The tournament was held Jan. 24. “The experience was exciting. I’ve never got to play at that level before. I learned a lot from it and have a lot more to offer my team to pass on these new skills.”
Knapp said that while she plans to take a gap year to save up for Physician Assistant (PA) school, she would love to play rugby at a higher level.
“If I get an opportunity to play rugby further after undergraduate, I will continue playing!” said Knapp.
-Isabella Elliott