Redmen vice-captain reaches 50-game-milestone
WE’VE all witnessed Yuri Fuller showcase her skills on the footy field.
Pace, strength, ability to read a game, and yes, there’s that copybook defence that’s sets her apart from the rest.
But there’s more to her story then being one of the best women players in the Mid North Coast Rugby Zone, it’s also about her ability to rise from adversity and brush aside early setbacks that life can sometimes throw at you.
Nothing has been handed to her on a silver-platter, she has worked hard to elevate her game through sweat, determination and perseverance.
When the Grafton Redmen women’s vice-captain runs out onto the field this Saturday to celebrate 50-games, it will be more than a number, it will be a reflection on her tenacity and her pride in wearing the Redmen jumper.
“It will be a proud moment, but honestly, every week I’m proud to represent the Redmen and play alongside my teammates,” Fuller said.
“The club and my teammates have my heartstrings and there is no better feeling than running down that hill and onto the field in front of a devoted home crowd and community.
“It wouldn’t matter if it was my first or five-hundredth game, it brings that same satisfied feeling.”
Despite starting her career in rugby league, Fuller admits rugby union came into her life at just the right time.
“I played rugby league and there were no opportunities back then for girls, I actually didn’t think I would pick up a footy again until I found rugby,” Fuller recalled.
“So, finding rugby and a club that genuinely supports the women’s game means everything to me.
“Pulling on that jersey never feels like an obligation, it’s something I’m proud to do every single time.”
The Redmen fullback/centre prides herself on being a team player, a leader and instilling core values into the team’s psyche.
“I think it’s been instilled in me from a young age, that if you want to achieve anything in life or sport it’s not given or handed out,” Fuller said.
“I believe if you put in the hard work during the week, it determines how you show up and perform on Saturday.
“‘Show up or be shown up’…and earn the right to the outcome.
“Sometimes you have doubts if you are good enough or belong at the next level, however there will always be someone more talented. You just have to look at what you can control as a player and have self-belief.”
Fuller’s 50-game milestone coincides with the Grafton Redmen Sponsors Day, which in the past has drawn a huge crowd.
There’s no doubt the popular Redmen outside back will be the main attraction in the women’s game against Port Pirates, but according to Fuller it will be business as usual.
“It will be a special day, but we will take the same approach to the game we take each week,” she said
“Believe in our own abilities and the rest will take care of itself…back yourself and your teammates.”
Nico