Today we’d like to introduce you to Melissa Butler.
Alright, so thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, can you tell us a bit about how you got started?
I discovered rugby in 2001 as a student at the University of Central Florida, and was immediately hooked by the sports unique blend of teamwork, physicality, and pure fun. After graduating, I returned to Jacksonville and launched the Women’s team in 2006 (there has previously been a team from 1997-1999). The early years were challenging; most women had never even heard of rugby much less considered playing it. But with persistence and a growing group of passionate recruits, the roster slowly expanded to more than 15 players. Before long, the Jacksonville Women’s team was competing through out Florida and across the Southeast.
As rugby gained national momentum-including its debut in the Summer Olympics and the growing visibility with ambassadors like Ilona Mahar (she has 5.4 million social media followers, participated on Dancing with the Stars ans has her own Barbie)- the sport became easier to recruit for. This year the team proudly celebrates its 20th Anniversary. After the covid pandemic, I transitioned into coaching to help rebuild and strengthen the squad. I returned to the pitch briefly in 202, but a November injury ultimately steered me towards a new mission: launching a high school girls rugby program in Jacksonville.
That program came to life in 2023 with just 2 players, one of which went on to recive a rugby scholarship ns now plays at Life University. Today, it has grown in to Duval Tides Rugby- a team of 18 athletes supported by 4 dedicated coaches. The Tides welcome players from across Northeast Florida, including Duval, Clay and St. Johns counties and even as far as St. Simmons, GA. Players range in age 13-18 currently playing but we accept 10 years and up as we continue to build the next generation. With no try-outs and no prior experience required, the program embraces athelets of all body types and backgrounds. Rugby remains one of the most affordable sports to join, and scholarships ensure that cost is never a barrier. We accept players throughout our season, we are currently practicing at Westside Middle School 4815 Wesconnett Blvd on Tuesday and Thur from 6-7:30pm.
The team competes in multiple rugby formats- from 7’s to 15’s- and travels throughout the region, from Atlanta to Miami, even participating in an international match against the Caymen Islands. At its heart, the program is about more than sport; its about empowering young women, building confidence, and fostering a sense if self-worth through the game of rugby.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
Recruiting has always been one of the biggest challenges, whether for the women’s team or the high school program. Because both teams play full-contact rugby, many people assume the sport is inherently dangerous. In reality, rugby’s injury rates are no higher than other mainstream sports such as soccer or football. All of our coaches are fully certified and trained to teach proper tackling techniques and body safety, ensuring players learn the right way.
Another hurdle is simply awareness, I cant tell you how many times I have described rugby to a person and they say “OH Lacrosse “. Rugny isn’t widely publicized in the United States- you are more likely to catch professional stone skipping on ESPN than a rugby match. But once a potential player attends a single practice, everything changes. They quickly discover the sport’s many benefits: not just physical fitness, but also mental strength that comes from having a healthy outlet for intensity, along with friendships and a sense of community that rugby naturally builds. Every new recruit finds something they love, and that’s what keeps the team growing.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
Professionally, I work as a project manager at Bank of America, and the skills I use every day translate to rugby. The organization, structure and strategic planning required in my career have been essential in starting and sustaining a successful team. The same commitment to follow through, especially when it comes to continuous recruiting, has helped keep our programs strong and growing year after year.
Where we are in life is often partly because of others. Who/what else deserves credit for how your story turned out?
The women who came after me on the Jacksonville Women’s team deserve immense credit for growing the program and carrying its legacy forward. After serving as president for 15 years, I stepped down and passed the reigns to Stacey Nemeth. I knew her passion for the sport matched my own, and the team would be in excellent hands. Stacey has since moved in to a coaching role for the Jacksonville Women’s team and entrusted the day-to-day leadership to Isabella Grady, who continues to guide the program with energy and commitment.
For the high school team, our success is truly a shared effort. I am fortunate to coach alongside three incredible women, Allison “Train” Durham, Angelina Luciano, and Miranda Barnard. Together, we bring a balance of strengths and personalities that resonate with players of all types.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jaxhsgirlsrugby
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jaxhsgirlsrugby
