Mackenzie Carson, a prop for the Red Roses, believes that a touch of madness is required to excel in the front row of rugby scrums. Coming from Langley, raised in Abbotsford, and having studied at the University of British Columbia in Vancouver, Carson considers WXV as a personal homecoming, with the majority of her friends and family still residing in Canada. Despite winning three caps for Canada, Carson switched her allegiance to England last year, making her debut for the Red Roses.
Carson’s journey into the England squad was unconventional. Following a propping crisis, she found herself on the bench for the opening Six Nations match against Scotland, despite never officially being named in an England squad before. Since then, she has become a vital part of the team. Reflecting on her experiences, Carson appreciates the stability and support that playing for England has provided, compared to the part-time and often challenging experiences faced by her former Canada teammates.
Having witnessed the success of the Canadian women’s rugby team, despite the lack of investments from Rugby Canada, Carson advocates for more support for her former teammates. She believes that with proper investment, the Canadian team could become one of the best in the world. Being part of the England squad has not only provided Carson with opportunities for personal growth but also a newfound appreciation for the camaraderie and support within the team.
Carson’s relationship with fellow prop Sarah Bern adds an interesting dynamic to her rugby career. The couple’s shared mastery of the front row positions presents unique challenges, especially when they have to compete against each other on the field. Despite the competitive nature of their relationship, Carson values the professionalism and trust they have in each other to push for the best results. The front row player describes the importance of the mental toughness and solidarity required in playing such a demanding position.
Looking ahead, Carson’s ultimate goal is to compete in and win a World Cup with the England team. While she acknowledges other measures of success, such as inspiring young girls and boosting audience engagement, her main focus remains on achieving victory at the highest level of the sport. Carson is driven by her desire to succeed on the international stage, and she credits her current team for providing the support and motivation needed to chase her dreams.
In summary, Mackenzie Carson’s journey from Canada to England has been filled with challenges and opportunities for growth. Her experiences have shaped her perspective on women’s rugby, highlighting the importance of proper support and resources for teams to thrive. Carson’s commitment to success, both personally and collectively with the Red Roses, underscores her determination to make a mark in the sport she loves.