Whitefish's Heavirland makes Olympic rugby squad

Whitefish native Nicole Heavirland is off to Paris as a part of the U.S. women’s rugby team, for what will be her third Olympic showing.  

“I’m looking forward to the whole experience – traveling with the team, being in the Olympic village – just being a part of this journey,” Heavirland said.  

Heavirland went to the 2016 Rio Summer Games as a reserve. In 2021, she played for every minute of the Tokyo Games where the team placed sixth. This year, Heavirland has been selected as a reserve.

“I’m a reserve in case anyone gets injured, but I represent the team and the country,” she said. “And unfortunately, with our sport, there’s a high likelihood of injury. So I have to stay ready. 

“It’s team-versed. It’s not about you – it's about making the best team. There’s 12 on the roster and two reserves.” 

Heavirland was a basketball star at Glacier High School and was introduced to rugby when she joined a boys team her sophomore year.  

Heavirland went on to play basketball at the United States Military Academy at West Point but switched over to play rugby instead. She quickly developed into a top player and was invited to play rugby for USA’s national team, the Eagles.  

Heavirland said this year the Olympics will be a new experience. 

“The program is different from 2016 – it's not about you, it’s about the team producing a medal,” Heavirland said. “And I’m looking forward to not playing during Covid, like last time.”  

Heavirland said this year is also special because it’s the first time her whole family will be joining. “My mom, dad, my two brothers, and my grandpa, step-grandma and grandma are coming,” Heavirland said.  

The rugby team departed July 14 for Tours, France for a week to prepare while adapting to the time change.

“Then we’ll get to the village on [July 21] and then we’re into it,” Heavirland said. 

Competition kicks off July 28. 

“We have a great pool against Japan, Brazil and France, and we’re looking to medal. And we have a good chance – a high possibility,” Heavirland said. 

Regardless of the outcome, Heavirland is one decade down and not done yet.  

“Next step is the 2025 World Cup in England. That’s my next goal. 

“But you could say the roster is changing almost every day. Every day it's a competition to be on the team.” 

Post rugby, Heavirland plans to be a firefighter. 

“I’ve got my EMT license and will be excited to get my feet wet.” 

She says she plans to start in California and might make her way back to Montana.  

“I would love to give to my kids someday the experience of Whitefish. All the sports and activities, skiing and on the water. I’m just so proud to be from Whitefish,” she said. 

Heavirland looks forward to spending time with her family in August in Whitefish during her post-Olympic break.  

“And shout-out to Bulldog Saloon. My 2016 jersey is there and they have my favorite burger,” she said.

    The 2024 U.S. Women’s Olympic Rugby Sevens Team. (Photo provided by Heavirland)