HAYDEE KOOP: RUGBY 7S — RUGBY PATHWAYS TOUR USA

I grew up in Eulo and Cunnamulla in outback Queensland… red dirt roads, wide skies, and a love of sport that runs bone deep. I play Rugby Union, Rugby League and Cricket, and I give everything I have every single time I pull on a jersey.

I’m in Year 7 at Toowoomba Anglican School, and I’ve just been selected in the Rugby Pathways Team that will compete at the 2027 Tropical 7s tournament in Tampa, Florida! This is the largest Rugby 7s tournament in the United States, and one of the fastest-growing rugby markets in the world.

At thirteen years old, I feel like this is the opportunity of a lifetime!

Off the field, I volunteer with the Redbacks Rugby Club, Downs Rugby and the Darling Downs Girls Rugby Hub, and I’ve recently been recognised with a school Merit Award and a Mason Lodge Community Award — because for me, rugby has always been about more than just playing.

But getting to Florida doesn’t happen without support. The cost of flights, accommodation, tournament fees and touring kit is significant for a country family, and I’m asking for your help to make this dream a reality.

Every donation, no matter the size, brings me one step closer to that field in Tampa. And every dollar donated through the Australian Sports Foundation is fully tax deductible.

Thank you so much for believing in a country girl with big dreams. ❤️🏉