5 MINUTES WITH A LEGENDARY UNE LION, ALICIA QUIRK

Alicia Quirk is one of our wonderful UNE Rugby Lions. Not only is she weapon on the field, but she is also a qualified physiotherapist, an Olympic gold medalist, and a delightful human being. We are incredibly proud to have this to gal representing UNE nationwide on a Aon Uni 7s Journey!

There is a reason why Alicia played every minute of the gold medal winning Rio Olympics campaign. Her rugby brain is second to none. She see’s things that others don’t and can execute under the highest-pressure situations. She communicates non-stop on the field, and fills each teammate with confidence. She’s a champion and has the champion mentality. UNE are very fortunate that Quirky is in our corner. Tom Bower, Program Manager.

Alicia kindly spent a few minutes with us to talk about all things Rugby!

What inspired you to get into Rugby?

I guess it was the opportunity to go to the Olympics that really excited me! Check out this video where Alicia talks about chasing this golden goal.

What are some of your favourite things about being part of a team sport

• I love work towards a common goal with a group of like-minded people
• It’s an awesome opportunity to create incredible friendships
• You get to share in your results with people who support and encourage you no matter what

What are you most excited about being a UNE Lion?

The new up and coming team – so much talent!

What is the best part about competing for UNE?

I love being connected to a rural university, it gives such a sense of community. My team means everything to me. Really, you are nothing without your teammates.

What does training look like for you?

As an Australian 7’s full time professional, it is my job to train every day, so I can compete for my country.

How do your teammates make practice fun?

They’re a great bunch, we all like music, singing, dancing, practical jokes, and team challenges.

Who keeps you inspired?
So many people, my family, my husband, my teammates and young girls growing up in this country that have a desire to play rugby.

What advice can you give a young girl who would like to play Rugby like you?

I had no idea what I was doing when I first started!  But, it was the best decision I ever made, since then I haven’t taken a backward.

Challenging your brain and body to learn a new skill/sport demonstrates to you that anything is possible.

What’s the best life advice you’ve ever received?

Don’t ever let anyone tell you, you are not good enough.

What do health and wellbeing mean to you?

It is at the center of my livelihood. Being fit and healthy to perform as a 7’s player and then keeping other people fit and healthy within their physical impairments/injuries with my physiotherapy work.

Quick Facts about Alicia

• My birthday is 28 March 1992
• I grew up in Wagga Wagga, NSW
• My heroes are my parents!
• I’m happiest when I’m at the beach diving under waves or adventuring with my husband
• I play fly-half (Number 10)
• Setting goals helps me keep motivated
• My guilty pleasure is Thai Takeaway

If you’d like to follow Alicia on her incredible journey you can keep up to date with events and updates on the UNE Lions page or follow her on

Instagram: @alicia_quirk

As always, a big shout out goes to the team at SportUNE who keep the Lions team kicking on!