Zion Brown is a member of The Penn Rugby 15’s and 7’s teams.
How has Penn Rugby made an impact on you?: Penn Rugby really has been there for a lot of my life. I watched my brother Noah Brown play for Penn when I was younger and that really made an impact on how I saw the sport in general. Penn Rugby not only represents the type of Rugby player I want to be, but also the type of man I want to be. I’ve grown very close with my brothers on the field and for that there’s no amount of gratitude I could express to repay that gift. Penn Rugby has taught me so many life lessons because as we say ‘Rugby is life’.
Are there any things you’re excited for your future in the sport?: I am excited to play at the next level for Indiana University and continue my journey of learning and playing. I am also excited to play with the Chicago Lions over the summer and further my development there as well. Coming up more recently I’m excited for this new spring season. We’ve got lots of talent this year and I expect to go far with the team. Even just practicing and putting work in with the team is exciting for me as well. Can’t wait to see how far we’ve come.”
What inspired you to start playing Rugby?: I was inspired to play Rugby after going with the Penn Rugby team to England when I was only in seventh grade. Penn took their top 7’s players, my brother being one of them, and we went to England and played their teams. We also went to see a pro league game and that was all truly inspiring to watch. To see what Rugby could give you, where Rugby could take you, and the brotherhood Rugby inspires was truly a pivotal moment for me as a young boy. As soon as we got back from England I joined the Penn Junior Rugby team and the rest is history.
Who’s your biggest role model in Rugby?: My biggest role model will always be my brother. Ever since the beginning he has been my inspiration for rugby. He’s an absolutely exceptional player and I believe in his abilities 100 percent. I’ve grown up watching him play and still do to this day at almost any USA tournament I can get to. Being my brother makes me believe that if he can do it, so can I. We come from the same blood, the same background, and he trains me during the off season so he really understands me and is a huge influence to me as a player.
What do you think is your biggest strength as a Rugby player?: I’d say my biggest strength is my Rugby IQ. Like I said, I’ve been watching the game forever and I’ve seen games at the highest level and been close with those players. I’m able to make smart decisions based on that knowledge and from that elevates my team to a higher level of play. I know situational decisions I should make and I know how to deal with setbacks. This knowledge also helps me to be better at all aspects of my play because I know little things like when and how to pass, what move would be most beneficial and which decisions should be made.
