As part of Women’s Month 2026, we conducted a short interview with Anna Rogatnikov, who plays for the Maccabi Tel Aviv Amazons and has recently joined the Israel national team squad.

How does sport strengthen the community during particularly challenging times such as the current war?

Rugby has always had an exceptional community, and that is one of its greatest strengths.

On a personal level, I met my partner, and soon to be my wife, through the team. I have met strong and inspiring women who showed me what true strength looks like, both on and off the field. I have built friendships that will last a lifetime.

In difficult moments, especially during times of war, this community is one of the things that sustains me in many ways.

Even now, during the war, our rugby team continues to find a way to train together twice a week and stay united. During those two hours, you are surrounded by friends, and it almost feels normal. It truly helps me recharge and stay connected.

What needs to happen in order for more girls to join the sport?

It is primarily a matter of early exposure, showing young girls what this sport looks like and that it is perfectly acceptable to embrace this kind of strength.

Growing up in Russia, I did not really have the opportunity to participate in more physical sports, as they were considered to be for boys, while girls were expected to be gentle. As a result, I spent a great deal of time trying to fit into that framework. It was incredibly liberating to see other women break those barriers, to be strong, to be powerful, and to take up space.

What message would you like to share with the next generation of rugby players in Israel, and where do you see the sport in the coming years?

It is important to always remember how essential it is to stay connected. While we compete against one another on the field, off the field we are united by a shared purpose, to keep this sport alive for the next generation and to help it grow.

Part of that is supporting one another, helping each other improve, finding ways to integrate new players, and creating opportunities for one another.