Sisilia Tuipulotu

At age 18, Welsh athlete Sisilia Tuipulotu is making her mark on the world of rugby. Tuipulotu's parents didn't allow her to play the sport growing up for fear of injury, and she instead took up netball: a non-contact sport similar to basketball. However, it became apparent that she wanted to play something more physical, and her family eventually conceded when she chose rugby. Perhaps it was inevitable: Tuipulotu has multiple cousins, including Taulupe Faletau, who are big names in the sport. Tuipulotu's talent became undeniable after starting at Hereford Sixth Form College, and Wales Women U18s coach Liza Burgess heard tell of the young athlete. Today, just two years after taking to rugby, Tuipulotu is playing on a semi-professional level. Despite her parents' initial misgivings, Tuipulotu credits her family as a big part of her success. “Seeing how hard they work inspires me to push, to do whatever it takes, reach for my goals. They've always reached what they've put their heads to so why can't I?” she told Wales Online recently. "My dad has always said to just be me. On that field, off that field, he'll be proud. However I perform, whatever I do, he'll still be there. The main thing is to be myself and play how I play." Tuipulotu is now part of the Welsh Rugby Union's performance program, which includes a retainer contract. At the time of writing, she was on track to make her international debut at The Women's Six Nations Championship.