Article content

After competing for Canada at the Women’s Rugby League World Cup in Australia last November, MacKenzie Fane returned home and pondered her future.

The former Western Ontario Mustang rugby all-star was accepted at university to continue her studies. But rugby league was pulling at her, given the news that Australia’s National Rugby League was introducing a women’s division.

We apologize, but this video has failed to load.

tap here to see other videos from our team. Try refreshing your browser, or Canadian MacKenzie Fane moves Down Under to chase rugby league dream Back to video

The 25-year-old from Holland Landing, Ont., returned Down Under in February to compete for Canada at the Rugby League Commonwealth Championship, a nine-a-side tournament.

Suddenly her mind was made up.

“When I was back in that environment, it was like ‘Oh I have to.’ I can’t not try,”‘ Fane said, referencing the new women’s league.

“It’s such a huge opportunity. I’d hate to not do it and look back and wonder what if,” she added.

Fane flew home again, finished up her job (landscaping stone work), packed and said goodbye to family and friends.