On April 26, 2025, I had the incredible opportunity to photograph the USA Women’s Eagles as they faced Japan in a thrilling international test match. The game was played at the Wallis Annenburg Stadium on the UCLA campus.
Women’s rugby has been gaining momentum in the U.S., and this match perfectly captured that spirit — fierce competition, heart, and history in the making.
Game Day Atmosphere
The stadium buzzed-the spring weather was perfect for rugby — and a soft haze made for beautiful photo conditions. Before kickoff, both teams lined up for the national anthems and you could sense the mutual respect between them.
On the Sidelines
Shooting rugby is all about timing and anticipation. The tackles, scrums and lineouts move fast and reading the plays (especially in rugby) to capture the decisive moments. The USA Eagles came out strong but Japan played with incredible pace and precision. I used my Canon R5/70-200 2.8 lens and Sony A9iii/300mm 2.8 lens.
Meeting Alona Maher
One of the unexpected highlights was getting to meet Aloha Maher — a rising star and dynamic presence in women’s rugby. I’d followed her journey for a while, so meeting her in person was a real full-circle moment.
Between plays, I spotted her near the sideline interacting with fans and teammates — Even off the field, you could feel her passion for growing the game. When I had the chance to chat with her briefly, she was gracious, down-to-earth and genuinely excited about where women’s rugby is headed.
A Historic Result
Japan’s 39–33 victory marked their first-ever win over the USA Women’s Eagles — a major milestone for Japan and a powerful statement about the global rise of women’s rugby. As a photographer, being there to document a moment of sporting history felt special. My images that day weren’t just about the action — they were about the emotion: exhaustion, pride, joy and heartbreak.
Why It Mattered
This match wasn’t just another game. It was a reflection of how far women’s rugby has come and how competitive the landscape has become. Both teams gave everything they had and the fans witnessed a fast, physical and passionate display of rugby at its best.
Final Thoughts
Walking off the field after the final whistle, I felt grateful to have been part of a day that celebrated athleticism, resilience, and the growing visibility of women’s sports. Shooting this match reaffirmed my goal to keep highlighting women’s rugby and the incredible athletes driving it forward.
If you ever get the chance to photograph or attend a women’s international rugby match — take it. The energy, emotion, and sense of purpose on display are unmatched.
