Photo: Ian Muir
CARMEN FARMER
Carmen Farmer was a surprise. She picked up rugby in 2012 at 31 years old, playing wing for DII Severn River. By summer 2013, Farmer had her first cap, and the 6’1” newcomer was playing lock. Steinberg had nothing but great things to say about the lean, fast athlete and commended her incredible learning curve – but it seemed unbelievable that someone with so little experience could play at the highest level of the game so quickly.
Farmer held her own in the scrum and in the air, and her time in the backline meant she liked to stretch her legs in the open field as well. She proved to have a real nose for the tryline, too, and when decision time came for the World Cup squad, Farmer beat out well knowns like Stacey Bridges and Molly Kinsella.
The now-34-year-old didn’t just make the travel team; she became the choice starter alongside Sarah Walsh at second row. She also scored tries against Ireland and Australia.
It’s tough to “break out” in a World Cup year, as one would expect to be very familiar with the player pool after four years of buildup. But Farmer’s aptitude surprised us all, and her accomplishments are noteworthy.
