Women’s rugby veteran named Athlete of the Week
Jenny Dunn scored an incredible 18 points in the Gryphons women’s rugby 48-0 win against the Laurier Golden Hawks on Sept. 13. The Vancouver, British Columbia native had two team tries and an additional four converts for the extra eight points.
The Vancouver Canucks fan sat down to reflect on her time as a Gryphon, her love for rugby, and what’s ahead.
Stephanie Coratti: You’re from British Columbia, what attracted you to attend the University of Guelph?
Jenny Dunn: I’m interested in attending the Ontario Veterinary College, so I thought taking my degree at the university associated with the OVC was a good way to figure out if that’s what I want to do with my future. Plus, I have a lot of family out here so it was comforting knowing I had close relatives nearby.
S.C.: What’s the best thing about being a Gryphon?
J.D.: The supportive, family atmosphere you feel anywhere you go when you see a fellow Gryphon.
S.C.: What do you find most challenging?
J.D.: […] Time management. Balancing school, practices, relationships, workouts, jobs, and a social life can be quite stressful. It’s up to you as the athlete to effectively designate appropriate time and effort to each of the aspects of your life to make sure everything gets done.
S.C.: What is one thing you wish people recognized about rugby?
J.D.: I think there is a general view most people think about women’s rugby, and I know this because I [used to think the same]. What I didn’t realize is […] every position on the field requires different skills and talents, which makes the sport so unique. It’s so cool to see a huge variety of female athletes with various backgrounds coming together and having the same goal. My coach mentioned once, “We select athletes and train them to become rugby players.”
S.C.: Where do you get your motivation?
J.D.: […] From the hugely successful history of the women’s rugby team and from the limited time I have as a rugby athlete. The fact that I even get the opportunity to play as a Gryphon women’s rugby player gives me chills. It’s a huge honour to be a part of such a prosperous group of women […] I only have one season to give it everything I’ve got, and that’s serious motivation for me within itself.
S.C.: Who has been the most influential part of your life as a student, and an athlete?
J.D.: My parents have been the most influential people in my student life. They are so supportive with my academic goals and are always willing to share their expertise when I’m struggling […]. I have had various influential people in and out of my life, however a few of my close friends are to thank for giving me the confidence to try rugby […]. I fell in love with the sport and haven’t looked back since. […] Friends who are CIS ranked athletes, national level players, and OUA All-Stars […] teaching me the game is amazing. They are the ones who influence me to be the best player I can be […].
S.C.: As a fifth-year student, what advice would you give to first years?
J.D.: Surround yourself with people who bring out the best in you, keep school a high priority, and most importantly, do what you love! Don’t close any doors early on – having lots of options is essential. You never know what could happen. Keep an open mind and you will have a successful university career no matter what you want to do with it.
S.C.: What’s next for you following this season and school year?
J.D.: I’m going to finish up my degree. It’s crazy how time flies… Part of me wishes I was doing it all again and flying out to Guelph for the first time. I won’t be in school next semester, so I might go [back to Vancouver] to spend time with my family. Mainly going to enjoy the break from school, but I will definitely miss the varsity athlete lifestyle.