At YELLS, we believe that building strong leaders starts with building a strong community where mentors, role models, and neighbors come together to support youth, and the Life University Women’s Rugby Team has become an invaluable part of that community. These incredible student athletes have brought their energy, discipline, and compassion beyond the rugby field and into the heart of our YELLS Afterschool Program.
What began with a few players joining our team has grown into a thriving partnership that has strengthened our program in countless ways. Many rugby team members now serve as dedicated leaders and mentors, guiding our YELLS students through everything from supporting leadership activities to homework help. They have stepped into critical roles by teaching reading lessons, leading small groups, and modeling the YELLS values of servant leadership, uplifting others, and positivity.
This partnership first took root when a couple of Life University students joined YELLS through the Federal Work Study program. Their experience was so impactful and their connection to our mission so strong that they began recruiting their friends and teammates to join them in serving the Franklin Gateway community. Today, we are proud to have 9 Life University students serving through the Federal Work Study program, 6 of which are rugby players, including two new members from the Men’s Rugby team. Additionally, we even have another Life University rugby player serving as a staff member at our Fair Oaks YELLS Youth Program!
The Federal Work Study program has been a powerful resource, allowing YELLS to leverage the strength and commitment of talented college students at no cost, helping us sustain and expand our impact even amid challenges like recent cuts to core federal funding. Many of these students remain with YELLS throughout their entire college journey and even into their graduate studies, growing as leaders while continuing to uplift the next generation of youth.
I love the environment of YELLS. It is filled with energy, laughter, and a sense of belonging. The kids bring so much joy and light into my days and every moment with them is a new experience that teaches me something different. Even when things get tough, YELLS is my escape, a place where I can let go of life’s stresses and just be present. No matter the challenges, the happiness and connection I feel there always reminds me why I love being a part of it. – Danie
Their impact can be seen every day in the relationships they’ve built. Our students light up when they walk through the door, eager to read alongside them, share stories about their day, or show off a new skill they’ve learned. The rugby players have created safe, supportive spaces where our youth feel seen, encouraged, and capable of greatness. Through their example, they’ve shown our students what it means to work hard, support others, and give back to the community.
I love YELLS with a passion. As soon as I started working here, I realized that there was truly something amazing happening with this program. Coming in every day and getting to know each kid’s story has opened my eyes to so much, and if I can be just a small part of their journey, then that would mean the world to me. They brighten my day every time I walk into these doors, and I am just so thankful to be a part of the YELLS family. – Maddie
The Women’s Rugby Team has also gone above and beyond, organizing two special rugby sessions to introduce our students to their sport. These hands-on lessons were full of laughter, teamwork, and new experiences for our kids, many of whom had never held a rugby ball before! It was an opportunity for our youth to see strength, skill, and leadership in action, and to discover the confidence that comes from trying something new.
And when it comes to community spirit, the Life U Rugby teams never miss a chance to jump in. At our recent Trunk-or-Treat celebration, several team members went all out, decorating multiple trunks, handing out treats, and bringing smiles to over 200 kids and families. Their enthusiasm and creativity helped make the event one of our most memorable yet.
Behind all these moments is a powerful truth: our program simply wouldn’t run as smoothly without them. The rugby players’ willingness to serve, to show up consistently, and to give their best to our youth has made a lasting difference. They’ve not only supported our staff, they’ve become part of our YELLS family. We are profoundly grateful to the Women’s Rugby Teams for the time, care, and heart they pour into our program. They are helping shape the next generation of leaders, one reading session, one high-five, one meaningful connection at a time.
Thank you, Life U Rugby, for leading by example, living out the values of service and teamwork, and showing our students that strength truly comes from lifting others up.
