We’re looking forward to returning to the pitch in 2022, Girls Rugby is excited to announce that we have hired Program Manager, Shilo Shalosky, who will be spearheading our new program in Charlotte, North Carolina. Shilo is a huge asset to our team and we’re excited for you all to get to know her better!
Shilo Shalosky (she/her/hers), Girls Rugby Charlotte, NC Program Manager
Tell us a little bit about yourself and a bit of your background
I grew up in several different states before my family settled in Florida when I was in high school. I attended college at the University of South Florida, where I was first introduced to rugby and immediately became hooked. My dream of playing high-level rugby led me to Denver, Colorado, where I played for six years, interspersed with a couple seasons abroad in New Zealand and Canada. For the past three years, I was fortunate to have the opportunity to work in Laos, supporting the Lao Rugby Federation to develop rugby and life skills programs.
Why did you want to work with Girls Rugby?
The Girls Rugby’s values-based approach resonates with my experiences as a player, coach, and administrator. I have witnessed firsthand the tremendous impact that rugby can have in the lives of young people; in particular, intentional, structured sport opportunities can help them to develop leadership capacity and critical life skills that will serve them on and off the pitch into the future. I’m excited to grow the Girls Rugby program so that more girls get the chance to grow, lead, and succeed through rugby.
Why is empowering young girls important to you?
Playing rugby transformed my life, and I want to give other girls access to the opportunities that I have had. My rugby coaches and leaders empowered me with courage and confidence, which has helped me to become a leader both on and off the pitch. I want all girls to become their most bold, awesome, powerful selves – both for their sakes, and for our collective future. Empowering girls today is critical to ensure that they are equipped to help build a more just, equitable, and peaceful world tomorrow.
What is an important value that you think is essential for girls to learn?
There are so many! One that I find especially important is grit, or the resilience to persevere through adversity to achieve your goals.
What are you most looking forward to with the upcoming season?
I’m looking forward to seeing a player do something they thought they couldn’t – pull a flag, make a pass, or score a try – and realize how strong they truly are. And then do it again and again.
I’m also super excited to watch our coaches develop their skills, connect with the players, and bring their wealth of experience in life and rugby to be great leaders and role models.
What’s a fun fact about yourself?
I played the tuba for 6 years (no, I don’t own one now) and my second language is Lao.
To reach Shilo or find out more information on Girls Rugby programs in Charlotte, contact her at charlotte@girlsrugbyinc.com.