Rugby injuries a pain, says Victoria Edmonds

The worst part of playing rugby is injury, says an established Waikato women’s player.

Victoria Edmonds has been playing rugby for over 10 years and she is no stranger to injury, but she has not let that hold her back.

Now she is playing her part with the younger players coming through, keeping a watchful eye on their training and making sure they reach their targets.

She said that the worst part about playing rugby is when you’re injured.

“It’s worse when doctors tell you the only thing you can do is rest,” Edmonds said. “What is rest? I hate it.”

Edmonds, 27, has played rugby for 12 years, since year 11 at Te Puke High School, and has sustained three or four concussions during that time.

“It’s not a worry for me. My body still has many years left,” she said.

Being a mum of two boys, Edmonds is always looking out for the newbies on the team, making sure they aren’t cutting corners.

“They’re all naturally talented and naturally fit and fresh out of school,” she said.

To avoid injury, she recommends warming up and following any workout plan carefully.

“Warm up properly.” Edmonds said. “If you don’t warm your little muscles up properly and start using your big muscles, you’re going to injure yourself straight away.”

Edmonds said that there is always the possibility of carrying old injuries into your next rugby season if they are still niggly.

“It’s about training smarter in your off season.”

Edmonds’ partner plays touch and she trains with him year round.

“It’s summer versus winter sports,” she said.

“We keep each other fit.”