As the countdown to the Paris 2024 Summer Olympics continues, Stephanie Rovetti, Master of Occupational Therapy (MOT) student at the University of St. Augustine for Health Sciences (USAHS) in San Marcos, CA, is gearing up to represent the USA Rugby team at one of the world’s biggest arenas. Her path to this point reflects her dedication and the seamless integration of her dual passions: occupational therapy (OT) and rugby.
Rovetti’s athletic journey began at age six – she played several youth sports. Then, she was a college basketball player at Brigham Young University (BYU) and later attended California State University, Fresno, to earn a Master of Public Administration (MPA). It wasn’t until she was 26 that she found rugby, inspired by her sister’s involvement with the sport in college.
“I found a club rugby team and realized the national team trains here in San Diego, CA. This route got me here to train in this environment,” she explains. Rovetti has been a national rugby team member since 2018, dedicating herself to the sport while pursuing her education.
Embracing a Career Pivot
About two years into her rugby tenure, she decided to reevaluate her profession. She worked in the nonprofit management sector but didn’t feel fulfilled. A chance encounter while babysitting changed everything. “The parents of the child I was babysitting mentioned I reminded them of his occupational therapist,” she recalls.
Rovetti has always been motivated by the ability to impact lives. “My little brother has Down syndrome and seeing him go through early intervention was a lightning bolt moment for me. His path and spirit have taught me so much,” she says. This realization led her to seek a career where she could work with the disability community and fulfill her desire to help others.
Rovetti discovered the USAHS Flex MOT program, which allowed her to train for the Olympics while studying. “It worked out beautifully,” she notes.
The personalized MOT program enables Rovetti to juggle a rigorous training schedule and academic commitments.
“The Flex format has helped 100% with balance; the flexibility I have to make my schedule is the only way I could manage both,” she emphasizes.
Conquering Trials, Preparing for Excellence
Balancing the demands of school and rugby has been a challenging yet rewarding experience. “I’ve learned to be intentional with my energy and prioritize rest and recovery,” she explains. Rovetti maintains a clear division: school time is dedicated to academics, and training hours are focused solely on rugby.
Having a supportive cohort and professors has made a significant difference. “The level of understanding and respect for my priorities has been positive,” she says. Fellow teammate and USAHS Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) student Sarah Levy is a great advocate. “Having someone in my position who understands the unique challenges has been a big help,” Rovetti shares.
Preparing for the Olympics involves rigorous physical and mental fortitude. “We’ve been training all year to peak at this moment. Now, we’re in the sharpening phase,” Rovetti explains.
A typical week includes two rugby practices, a gym session and one-to-two film sessions daily. The players work with a sports psychologist to manage distractions and focus on mental preparation. Team connection and culture are crucial in strengthening their bonds. The team collaborates to resolve conflicts, engages in culture meetings to develop their values and standards and practices giving and receiving feedback. “It’s important that we’re as tight of a unit as possible,” Rovetti emphasizes.
Rovetti’s journey has not been without adversity, including a severe injury with a broken leg and two surgeries.
“There was a 15% chance I’d return to playing, but now that I’m back on the field, I have a new perspective and the ability to relate to others facing similar challenges,” she says.
This hardship has been profound, leading her to reflect on losing an integral part of herself and her identity. “I wouldn’t change this experience for the world because of the outlook it has given me,” she reflects.
This empathy and resilience have become integral to her approach in OT, allowing her to connect deeply with clients experiencing identity crises or injuries. “Having a similar experience has built a whole new level of rapport,” she explains.
Chasing Gold on and Off the Field
Rovetti’s background in OT and rugby has provided her with unique insights.
“I’ve learned how to do hard things, like being a full-time graduate student and helping others overcome obstacles,” she says.
The teamwork and relationship-building skills she has honed on the rugby field translate directly to her interactions with OT patients. “If I’m working with a client, that’s my teammate. Building trust and empowerment in rugby is just as important as in OT,” she adds.
As she looks toward her future in OT, Rovetti is passionate about working with pediatric clients. “My love for OT started at the grassroots level, seeing its impact on my brother and our family,” she reflects.
Her experiences as an athlete – with strong supporters shaping her course early on – have also shifted her mindset. “I see everyone as an athlete. Rugby is a unique sport with diverse body shapes, sizes and personalities. It taught me to focus on strengths, just as I do with people with different abilities and challenges,” she says.
Contemplating Gratitude and Impact
Rovetti’s advice to aspiring athletes and healthcare practitioners is rooted in perseverance and clarity of purpose.
“Your journey will be messy, with always something to overcome. If it’s hard and uncomfortable, you’re on the right path. Know your ‘why’ and make decisions based on your values,” she advises.
The moment Rovetti found out she was going to Paris was emotional. She went on a hike with her dog and waited for the email. “I cried. It felt like the pinnacle event of my entire athletic career,” she recalls.
As she prepares for the Paris Olympics and looks forward to a fulfilling career in OT, Rovetti is ready to make a profound impact. “It’s an honor to represent my country and team. I’m so grateful to everyone who helped me to get to this moment,” she says.
Check out a recent NBC Olympics article featuring Stephanie Rovetti. Follow Rovetti and her team’s rugby journey at the Paris 2024 Summer Olympics.
