Biography:
Mary Forsyth is a trailblazer and pioneer in the world of women’s rugby union. Born in Pittsburgh, US, she showed immense talent as a high school athletics prospect. In 1977, Forsyth enrolled at Penn State University, but financial constraints forced her to put aside her athletics aspirations. It was during her time at Penn State that she discovered the women’s rugby team, and she made the decision to switch from athletics to rugby.
Representing Penn State for four years, Forsyth honed her skills and laid the foundation for her future rugby career. After graduating, she returned to Pittsburgh and continued her rugby journey. In 1985, fate brought her to London for work, where she found herself living just yards away from England’s first women’s rugby club in Finchley. Embracing this opportunity, she joined the Richmond Rugby Club and became acquainted with fellow rugby enthusiasts Deborah Griffin, Alice Cooper, and Sue Dorrington.
In 1988, Forsyth achieved a significant milestone in her career by earning her first and only international appearance for England, playing against Sweden. Her dedication and passion for the sport extended beyond the field. She played a crucial role in organizing the inaugural Women’s Rugby World Cup in 1991, serving as the financial controller. Despite the demanding nature of this role, Forsyth faced an extraordinary challenge as she was seven days away from giving birth to her first child. Undeterred, she persevered and fulfilled her responsibilities, even making it to the final with her newborn baby, husband, and mother.
Mary Forsyth’s contributions to the growth and development of women’s rugby cannot be overstated. Her involvement at the organizational level, coupled with her immense talent as a player, has left an indelible mark on the sport. Her journey exemplifies the resilience, determination, and passion that female athletes bring to the game, inspiring countless others on and off the field.
Awards:
– Mary Forsyth, along with Deborah Griffin, Alice Cooper, and Sue Dorrington, will be inducted into the World Rugby Hall of Fame in a special ceremony during the 2021 Rugby World Cup semi-finals at Eden Park on November 5, 2022.