In a sport known for its brutal physicality and unyielding spirit, Daria Shestakova stood out. A former star for CSKA and the Russian national rugby team, her career was marked by explosive talent and, regrettably, significant injuries. Now, as she transitions from the scrum to the spotlight, Shestakova offers a refreshingly frank perspective on Russian women`s rugby, the challenges of athlete longevity, and the hopeful yet complex path toward a potential return to the global stage.
From Field to Camera: A New Playbook
Shestakova`s journey post-rugby is as dynamic as her playing style. She`s not just a retired athlete; she`s an ambassador for CSKA Rugby Club and, perhaps more surprisingly, a student at Ostankino, one of Russia`s premier television presenting schools. “I just looked at myself in the mirror and thought, `My God! I was simply born to be on television!`” she quips, though the underlying ambition is serious.
The shift, she admits, is a seismic one. From the predictable routines of professional sport to the unpredictable world of media, it’s a constant learning curve. “My brain starts to work completely differently,” she explains, describing the complex coordination required to navigate multiple cameras and deliver a script. It`s challenging, unfamiliar, yet undeniably captivating. This new chapter isn`t merely a pastime; it`s a strategic move to build a sustainable career beyond the playing field, a stark reminder that even for elite athletes, sporting glory is finite.
The State of Russian Women`s Rugby-7: A Critical Lens
Despite her new pursuits, Shestakova`s passion for rugby remains undimmed, particularly for the Russian Women`s Rugby-7 Championship. Her observations are sharp, noting the emergence of new, interesting teams like Argat and Zilant, while also pointing out the struggles of once-dominant clubs like Enisey-STM. “Something is happening with them, and it`s not new,” she states, reflecting on a team that historically vied for the top three spots.
She highlights the crucial role of experienced players in nurturing young talent. Clubs like Rostov-DSTU, with seasoned internationals like Navrat Khamidova and Anna Ermolaeva (Gotzeva), demonstrate the immediate impact of veteran leadership. “What experience does Navrat have with Europe, World Series?!” Daria exclaims, emphasizing that age in rugby often equates to invaluable wisdom and consistent performance. This blend of seasoned veterans and eager newcomers, she argues, is essential for growth, especially in the absence of international competition.
The Economics of Professional Rugby: More Than Just a Game
A fascinating insight into the life of a professional rugby player in Russia emerges from her interview. With Rugby-7`s inclusion in the Olympic program, the financial landscape improved significantly. While not a path to extravagant wealth, playing for a top Russian club now offers enough to be a full-time professional. “If you play for top teams, you are, in principle, a professional athlete who only does this,” she clarifies. This allows players to dedicate themselves to training and recovery, a far cry from the amateur days. The caveat, she adds with a touch of realism, is that it`s “enough for one person, not a family of ten.”
The Global Stage vs. Local Arenas: Where the Spectacle Lies
Shestakova reminisces about the electric atmosphere of international tournaments in rugby-mad nations. Paris, Dubai, Sydney – these weren`t just venues; they were experiences, defined by roaring crowds. “The stadium can be anything, you know? But the number of spectators who come makes the atmosphere,” she explains. The contrast with sparsely attended local matches is palpable: “When you go out and there are `half a gravedigger` sitting there, it`s sad. No matter how gorgeous the field, it won`t matter.”
Her tales from the US World Series events are particularly telling. Americans, she notes with a hint of bemusement, seem to possess a “cult” of attending any major event in their city, regardless of prior knowledge of the sport. The packed stands in San Francisco, Glendale, and Atlanta, even at a “tiny student stadium,” attest to this unique phenomenon. This enthusiasm, however accidental, provides a valuable lesson for rugby development back home. The success of Vasily Artemiev`s tag-rugby leagues, drawing new fans and even prompting a taxi driver to seek out games and autographs after a radio interview, underscores the power of grassroots efforts and media presence.
Battles Beyond the Try Line: Injury and Resilience
The interview takes a more somber, yet equally inspiring, turn when discussing her extensive injury history. Daria is currently on a rigorous rehabilitation journey, navigating a daily “step limit” due to pain. Her list of major surgeries is daunting: both shoulders (one just seven months before the Tokyo Olympics, requiring an emergency recovery), and both Achilles tendons. Add to that a pre-rugby elbow surgery that required an Ilizarov apparatus. “After such injuries, people rarely return,” she admits with poignant realism.
Yet, Shestakova also highlights the evolving landscape of athlete longevity. She points to players in their mid-30s, some returning after maternity leave, scoring multiple tries in the national championship. “If they can run, let them run. Why not?” she challenges. This demonstrates a shift from previous generations where 28 was considered “veteran” status, emphasizing resilience and passion over rigid age limits.
The Future on Hold: Russia`s Rugby Prospects
The conversation inevitably turns to the Russian national women`s rugby-7 team and its potential return to international competition. Having attended the Paris Olympics, Shestakova has a clear perspective on the global standard. Her initial assessment is optimistic yet tempered with realism: “If we were suddenly brought back now – we would make it into the top eight, maybe even higher.” This immediate success, she believes, would be fueled by an “euphoria” born from prolonged absence and a core group of experienced players eager to compete.
However, the long-term outlook is more challenging. The “crazy speeds and tempo” of the current World Series are a stark reminder of the gap that has formed. While the Russian championship has maintained high intensity, three years of isolation mean a significant rebuilding phase would be necessary. “We would have to start from scratch,” she concludes, envisioning a tough year or so at the bottom of the table, battling new “dark horses” like China who have made incredible strides. It`s a pragmatic view, acknowledging both the enduring talent within the Russian squad and the steep climb ahead.
A Legacy of Grit and a Vision for Tomorrow
Daria Shestakova`s narrative is a compelling blend of past triumphs, present challenges, and future aspirations. From her unexpected entry into rugby with her twin sister Arina, to her candid reflections on sisterly competition, and now her ambitious foray into media, she embodies the multifaceted life of a modern athlete. Her insights into the Russian rugby scene, the necessity of fan engagement, and the honest assessment of the national team`s international standing paint a vivid picture of a sport grappling with internal growth and external pressures. Shestakova`s voice, whether from the rugby pitch or a television studio, remains a vital one, championing the sport she loves with both passion and an unwavering commitment to truth.
Gareth Pendleton