Women’s Sport Week showcase: Lisa Martin

To celebrate Women’s Sport Week 2016, Scottish Rugby is showcasing women who are making a difference to rugby in Scotland. Kicking things off is Scotland Women captain Lisa Martin who has earned 29 caps and is part of the BT Sport Scottish Rugby Academy. Name: Lisa MartinAge: 26Club: Murrayfield WanderersRole: PlayerI play because … I enjoy the challenge it brings, both mentally and physically.How long have you been involved in rugby? I started playing rugby when I was seven at Portobello Hornets.Why did you get involved? My dad was a keen rugby player in the RAF and would take my mum and I to Scotland games, he saw a poster for an event at the local rugby club and took me along.What do you love about rugby? Every game of rugby is different, it keeps me on my toes and always tests me in various ways. Having the honour of playing in the navy blue of Scotland is something I savour, it’s been a dream since I was a child and to now have gone on to captain my country putting me in the same conversation as some of the greats in Scottish Rugby, I’m flattered by it all. The true test is leaving the jersey in a better place from when I picked it up.  Why should women get involved in rugby? It’s a great way to keep fit and active and there’s an underlying camaraderie that you don’t find in many other sports.How has sport made an impact on your life? Playing rugby has been one of the best decisions of my life and has helped me become who I am. I’ve travelled the world and made lifelong friends along the way. It’s given me structure, discipline and a goal in life that I keep working hard towards. It’s taught me to never be complacent with anything, you can always get better.What would you say to a woman or girl who is thinking about giving rugby a go? Challenge yourself and go out of your comfort zone, you’re never going to know just how great a person you are unless you’re brave enough to go for it. You play your best with a smile on your face, when you’re enjoying every minute of it. Try rugby this week! Scottish clubs are welcoming new and returning players to free sessions during Women’s Sport Week from 3-9 October. Check out what is happening near you here and get along and give rugby a go.Women and girls can also sign up on scottishrugby.org to kick start their involvement in what is a unique game for all shapes, sizes and abilities. There are plenty of ways to get involved from coaching to refereeing and volunteering as well as playing.