Jodie Ounsley: A Trailblazer in Rugby Union and Advocate for the Deaf Community
Jodie Ounsley is an inspirational figure in sports, defying odds and overcoming significant challenges to achieve greatness in rugby union. Born on January 17, 2001, in Dewsbury, West Yorkshire, England, Jodie’s journey from a young girl dealing with profound deafness to becoming an internationally recognized athlete and advocate for the deaf community is truly remarkable.
Early Life and Challenges
Jodie was born prematurely and required medication that unfortunately damaged her hearing, leading to profound deafness. At just 14 months old, she became the youngest person in the UK to receive a cochlear implant. This groundbreaking device has been pivotal in helping her communicate and engage with the world.
Despite her hearing challenges, Jodie exhibited a natural aptitude for sports from an early age. She became a five-time junior world coal-carrying champion and secured multiple sprint titles at the Deaf Athletics Championships. Her versatility extended beyond traditional sports; she also won a gold medal in the British Open Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu finals, further showcasing her athletic prowess.
Jodie faced additional physical hurdles during her teenage years. While attending Shelley College, she developed Osgood-Schlatter disease, a knee condition common in adolescents. Although this temporarily sidelined her, she discovered rugby in 2015, a sport that would change her life forever.
Rapid Rise in Rugby
Jodie began playing rugby in October 2015, and her talent was evident from the start. By May 2016, she was the top try-scorer for her age group at Sandal Girls RUFC and earned a place in Yorkshire’s under-15 team. Her rapid progress was driven by her determination to excel, regardless of the challenges posed by her deafness.
In 2018, Jodie achieved several milestones. She scored for Yorkshire in the County Championship final held at Twickenham Stadium and represented England U18s against Wales U18s at the Principality Stadium. Later that year, she joined Loughborough Lightning, a Premier 15s team, and contributed to England’s victorious campaign at the World Deaf Rugby Sevens Championship. Her accomplishments earned her the prestigious Young Deaf Sports Personality of the Year award.
Making History in Rugby Sevens
In 2019, Jodie made history by becoming the first deaf female rugby sevens player to represent England at the senior level. This milestone was a testament to her skill and resilience. She signed a full-time England Sevens contract and made her debut in the World Sevens Series in Glendale, Colorado.
During the 2019 series, Jodie scored her first international try in Cape Town, South Africa. Her outstanding performance earned her a place in Great Britain’s provisional squad for the 2020 Summer Olympics. Although the pandemic altered the course of her Olympic journey, her impact on the rugby sevens world was undeniable.
Club Career and Challenges
Jodie continued her club career with notable stints at Sale Sharks Women and Exeter Chiefs Women. In July 2020, she joined Sale Sharks Women, and two years later, she signed with Exeter Chiefs Women.
However, her career was not without setbacks. In the 2023-24 Allianz Cup, Jodie sustained a severe shoulder injury that sidelined her for seven months. Despite this, she made a triumphant return in April 2024 during the semi-final match against Saracens Women. Her resilience and determination inspired fans and teammates alike.
In April 2024, Jodie announced her retirement from rugby sevens. While her injury influenced this decision, she expressed excitement about exploring new opportunities beyond the sport.
Advocacy and Community Impact
Jodie’s influence extends far beyond the rugby field. As an advocate for the deaf community, she has used her platform to raise awareness and inspire others. Her father, Phil Ounsley, a former professional mixed martial artist, and her family have been a strong support system throughout her journey.
Jodie serves as an ambassador for The Elizabeth Foundation, a preschool for deaf children, and is the Honorary President of UK Deaf Sport. She also launched “Not Just Anyone” (NJA), a storytelling initiative aimed at empowering younger generations through inspirational narratives.
In 2023, she was recognized on the BBC Woman’s Hour Power List as one of the most influential women in sports. Her efforts to bridge the gap between sports and inclusivity continue to make a significant impact.
Media Ventures and Future Goals
Jodie has also ventured into media, appearing as “Fury” in the 2024 BBC One reboot of Gladiators. Her athleticism and charisma brought a fresh energy to the show. Additionally, she worked as an interviewer for Channel 4 during the 2024 Paralympic Games in Paris, amplifying the stories of athletes with disabilities.
Legacy and Inspiration
Jodie Ounsley journey is a powerful reminder of what can be achieved through resilience and determination. From breaking barriers in rugby to advocating for inclusivity and representation, she has left an indelible mark on the world of sports.
As she continues to explore new horizons, Jodie remains an inspiration for athletes, especially those with disabilities, proving that limitations can be transformed into opportunities with the right mindset.
Her story is a testament to the power of perseverance, passion, and a commitment to making the world a better place.
