*Massive apologies for the delay on this part 2 release.
Every chapter of Aimee Ramos’ rugby journey reveals another layer of purpose, grit, and heart—and Part Two dives even deeper into the player, leader, and trailblazer she’s becoming. From making history as one of the first 15 women to ever represent Mexico in a 15s test match, to shaping team culture both in San José and abroad, Aimee’s evolution is rooted in responsibility and pride.
In this section, she opens up about the leadership standards she sets on the field, the challenges women’s rugby still faces across two countries, and the role she hopes to play in growing the game for future generations. She also shares the personal side—her dreams beyond rugby, the teammates who keep her laughing, and the unexpected fact that surprises most fans.
Part Two is all about identity, impact, and the legacy Aimee is building one match, one huddle, and one young girl inspired at a time.
LLR- Can you share a moment with the national team that changed you as a player? -
Aimee- I’d say being named one of the first 15 players to ever represent Mexico in 15s. Back in summer of 2024, Mexico 15’s had their first ever test match against Trinidad and Tobago which officially put us on the world rugby world ranking list. Being part of Mexican history definitely reinforced the idea that I’m no longer just playing for myself, I’m playing to represent the women who paved the way and to inspire future generations.
LLR- How do you contribute to team culture both at SJSU and with Mexico?
Aimee- Although I am no longer a player at SJSU, I try to give back as much as I can by assistant
coaching whenever I am in town. It’s important to understand that SJSU is definitely still a fun
club sport, so I try to make practice a fun learning environment. However, I don’t shy away from
being intense and pushing the girls to do their best. I’m also not afraid of making the girls take a
lap when they’re getting a little unfocused.
- With Mexico, I get to goof off a bit as a player off the field, and love being the team DJ. However, as the captain, when it’s time to focus up I definitely bring the intensity.
LLR- What leadership qualities do you try to bring onto the field?
Aimee- For me, it's all about setting the standard. I try to bring intensity and confidence by focusing and motivating the team during team huddles. Due to the nature of playing 10, I’m responsible for running the system, so I constantly need to be communicating clearly, looking for work, and staying composed under pressure. I’ve also been told my energy is contagious, so I try to maintain a positive, hardworking attitude because I know it can influence the team especially in high-pressure situations
LLR- What challenges do you think women’s rugby still faces, and how do you hope to be part of the solution?
Aimee- Women’s rugby definitely still lacks funding and marketing globally. I’m in a unique position because I’m seeing how rugby is growing at different rates between two countries. In the US, rugby is much more established and with athletes like Ilona Maher using their platforms to bring more awareness in the US, it’s definitely been able to receive much more visibility since the Paris Olympics. There’s also a huge push to invest in youth rugby which is definitely helping grow the game to a different level. Getting kids exposed to grassroots rugby helps with development far before reaching higher levels, which helps improve the level of play across the board. However, in Mexico, not many people know what rugby is let alone that there’s women’s teams. It’s also seen as a rough sport, so in the traditional sense, its a bit harder to market to the youth and get parents on board with letting their girls play. Luckily, as women’s sports in Mexico are receiving more visibility and support, there’s definitely been a small influx of girls and women trying rugby and joining clubs.
-In Mexico, my way of contributing to growing the game is by playing with my local club team in Guadalajara. I try to share my experiences and knowledge from the US with my club whenever I get the chance because it's almost like planting seeds. You tell one person something about a skill, and it spreads like wildfire.
LLR- What message do you have for young girls—especially Latina girls—who want to play rugby?
Aimee-I would say, don’t be afraid to try something new and break the status quo. Latinas are so much
stronger and capable than they realize, and although its a “rough” sport, you can still be tough
while embracing your femininity.
LLR- What are your long‑term dreams?
Aimee- professionally, academically, or athletically?
-Athletically, I know I won’t be able to play rugby for the rest of my life, so I’d definitely like to focus on rugby a bit more than my career for the next few years. I’d love to eventually play 15s
professionally somewhere in the world.
-Career wise, I just graduated with an MS in Biomedical Engineering, so I definitely need to start looking for a big girl job. Eventually, I’d love to do research and development on prosthetics or artificial organs, but I’m also a lab rat, so wouldn’t mind doing some lab based microfluidics or
biosensor work.
LLR- What’s your pre‑game hype song?
Aimee- 6AM J Balvin, Farruko
LLR- If you weren’t playing rugby, what sport would you be competing in?
Aimee-Either soccer or volleyball
LLR- Which teammate—SJSU or Mexico—makes you laugh the most? -
Aimee-This one’s tough so I’ll give them all a mention, Caro, Isa, and Nely.
LLR- What’s one thing fans would be surprised to learn about you?
Aimee- I’m an undercover nerd. Most people are shocked to hear I have a degree in Engineering.
Please follow below to support-
Mexico: Mexico Rugby
SJSU : Women's Rugby Club
Aimee: Instagram
*LLR Merch: Autism in Rugby
