C.I.S.T. student, Life U Women’s Rugby player
Originally from Carson, California, Brooklyn Vanifanua came to Life University (Life U) ready to play. She is an esteemed member of the Life U Women’s Rugby team, performing the position of blindside flanker. In general terms, a blindside flanker is a forward with the specific responsibility of not only guarding the ball when teammates are tackled but also ensuring that opposition cannot gain possession. Blindside flankers like Vanifanua also provide support in attacking play and are expected to receive passes and engage in rucks.
Rugby is an intense and demanding sport that requires immense trust and reliance on your teammates, which Vanifanua has been happy to find here at Life U in spades.
“Our team I truthfully feel like is one of a kind. I feel like on our team everyone has the same mindset and what they want out of why they’re there. All of our purposes come together, regardless of anything that’s going on,” Vanifanua said.
“Our team is very respectful to each other. There’s no drama at all. I feel like it’s a comfortable place for everyone to be themselves.”
Vanifanua likes to give back to her team in an extra way by contributing to media and marketing for her team. She is two quarters from graduation and is considering pursuing a master’s, but even if she doesn’t continue her education, she still plans to stay connected with her team as a devoted fan and community supporter.
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