Following a head clash at the 2017 Women’s Rugby World Cup, seeing Sharni Williams in headgear is as sure as the sun rising.
One of Australia’s most recognisable women’s Rugby players, boasting three Rugby World Cups, an Olympic Gold Medal, Commonwealth Games Silver and over 35 appearances on the Seven’s World Series, there’s no discounting her contribution to the game.
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The way which Sharni plays is a stark juxtaposition to her temperament off the field. From hard-hitting tackles to driving opposition scrums off the field, there’s no denying the physicality of her game, and it’s something that she embraces.
“I’m a physical player, and I love the contact which Rugby offers,” Williams sheepishly boasted.
“It’s my role on the field to be physical. In doing this, I play my part for my team and allow others to play theirs.”
Much like a swimmer with their goggles, or a water polo player with their cap, headgear is now the first thing Williams now packs for a tournament.
From an off-white headgear in 2017, Williams thought she’s settled on a sky-blue headgear in 2019, before a left of field idea saw the debut of something a bit closer to home in 2021.
An incredibly no-frills athlete, Williams is quick to emphasise that first and foremost, the headgear is there for one purpose, “it’s to protect me.”
However, this latest rendition of the uniform has an extra layer of meaning, and if you watch her games, you definitely can’t miss it!
“It’s a rainbow!” Williams exclaims.
“Rugby is a safe and inclusive game, and this headgear is the epitome of that message.
“I’m an out and proud member of the LGBT+ community; however, this headgear isn’t to tell that story.
“It’s a celebration of our game, a game that has given me so much, and something which I hope to share.
“It has allowed me to be the person I am, allowed me to represent my country on every stage without hesitation or uncertainty,” Williams added.
And through the support of both the Australian Olympic Committee and the International Olympic Committee, this headgear can now also be worn in Tokyo.
Chef de Mission of the Australian Olympic Team Ian Chesterman threw his support behind the celebration and Williams for lodging the request.
“It’s wonderful for our athletes to celebrate their identity as well as promote all of our Olympic sports as safe and inclusive,” Mr Chesterman said.
“I’d like to thank the IOC for their support in allowing Sharni to wear the headgear and thank Sharni for sharing her story with us during the games.”
And for those purists, don’t worry, the headgear still shows the green and gold.
During her limited spare time, Williams is out coaching with Newport and the Narrabeen Tigers and hopes that wearing the headgear will help encourage the next generation of Olympians to pick up a Rugby ball.
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“Ultimately, though, I think at the moment the world just needs a rainbow.”
Sharni Williams will kick off the Australian Women’s Sevens Olympic campaign on Thursday, 29 July when they take on Japan, with every match set to be broadcast LIVE and FREE on the Seven Network.
Australian Women’s Sevens Fixtures
Thursday 29 July
Australia v Japan, 11:30am AEST
Australia v China, 6:30pm AEST
Friday 30 July
Australia v USA, 11:30am AEST
