As the Buildcorp Wallaroos side continues to prepare for a monumental 2022 season rugby.com.au and Wallaroos naming rights partner Buildcorp went behind the scenes to show a side of the players fans don’t normally get to see.
Second Rower Michaela Leonard has proved to be a mainstay in the Buildcorp Wallaroos squad earning four caps against Japan and New Zealand in 2019. The 26-year-old is devastating at line-out time using her height and skill to her advantage giving her an inept ability to steal any opposing throw in. Captaining the ACT Brumbies side in the Buildcorp Super W, Leonard has also shown she is one of the most promising leaders in Australian Rugby thus far in her career.
Name: Michaela Leonard
Position: Second Row
DOB: Mar 06, 1995
Super W: Brumbies
Club: Tuggeranong Vikings
Nickname: Mac
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What does it mean to you to be a Buildcorp Wallaroo?
To be a Buildcorp Wallaroo means more to me than I can put into words. The opportunity to pull on a green and gold jersey and represent yourself, your family and your country is an enormous honour; one that is made even better by the fact you get to share the experience with some of your best friends.
What inspired you to play the game?
The challenge of trying something new that would challenge me both mentally and physically.The culture surrounding rugby then gave me even more reason to keep doing what I’m doing. It truly is a sport where everyone belongs and is valued for the contribution they bring.
What are your biggest strengths as a player?
Like any lock I pride myself around lineout and love this aspect of the game the most. I also try to challenge myself to always bring 110% effort to every drill, training or game that I'm involved in.
What do you want to work on going into New Zealand in 2022?
Before we head to New Zealand, I want to build defence up as a real strength in my game. I’ve always believed that a good defence will win you games.
What legacy do you want leave on the Buildcorp Wallaroos jersey?
I would like to leave the legacy that the 1% counts and effort costs nothing. To be known as someone who gave 100% in everything played with passion and humility, and was a teammate others could rely on.
What drives you to wake up every morning and train like you do every week?
Simply the joy that being out on the field and around the girls gives me. I love the challenge of trying to better myself each day, and to grow as an individual and teammate. I hope to inspire the next little girl or boy to believe in their ability to achieve whatever they set their mind to and just start by giving it a go.
When not playing rugby what is your favourite thing to do?
I like to get away and get outdoors usually to take my horse for a ride or walk my dog Tucker. I also love getting out to the beach that’s one of my favourite things to do, it’s really good recovery from training.
If you were stuck on an island and could only bring three things, what would they be and why?
1. My dog because I couldn't go without him.
2. As much food as I could carry because I'd be starving within 5 minutes.
3. My phone to call someone and ask them to get me out of there!
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