Akwaima Akpan: From rookie to rising star with the STFX X-Women rugby team

Akwaima Akpan’s rugby journey began just outside Halifax, N.S., with a late start, but today, as a standout player for the STFX X-Women rugby team, Akpan’s story is one of dedication, family, and gratitude.

Akpan, a Lower Sackville native, didn’t grow up playing rugby. Like many Canadian athletes, her early years were filled with other sports — primarily soccer, along with stints in volleyball, cross-country, and wrestling. It wasn’t until her senior year of high school that she heeded her wrestling coach’s advice to give rugby a try. Though her debut season was cut short due to the COVID-19 pandemic, Akpan quickly developed a passion for the sport.

"I had no clue what I was doing," she said. 

"I knew I could catch a ball and run, but if you'd asked me about a ruck, a scrum, or a maul, I would have had no answer." 

Despite her limited experience, Akpan’s potential was undeniable. A year after her brief high school season, she found herself playing provincial rugby for the Nova Scotia Celtic senior women’s team. Her skills on the field earned her a spot on the Canadian U20 national team and the United Atlantic CRC team. 

"I was on a high all summer, playing rugby and learning so much," said Akpan. 

"I was getting to do what I love, and that just rolled into coming to St. FX."

Joining the X-Women was a turning point. Akpan credits the team’s culture, steeped in a sense of legacy and unity, with helping her embrace her role and elevate her game. At the heart of that culture is the motto “Top Left,” symbolizing the program’s values and its commitment to both past and future players. 

“We play for those who came before us and for those who will come after us,” she said. 

"When we wear our jersey, the X is over our heart. It's a family, and Top Left means we play with heart, knowing we have a family supporting us in good times and hard times."

That sense of family extends beyond the field. From bus trips and family dinners to pre-game rituals and personal goals, the X-Women foster a connection that transcends their sport. 

“We're rugby players, but we're also people,” Akpan said. 

"We make sure we have fun things to do together outside of rugby. Whether it's hosting team dinners, spending time together, or just decompressing, it’s nice to have people who understand what you're going through."

Off the field, Akpan’s commitment to community and advocacy is equally strong. She serves on the Saint FX Student-Athlete Equity and Safe Sport Committee, focusing on gender equity in athletics. In this role, she advocates for student-athletes to feel “seen and heard,” especially in conversations around safety and equity.

 “Long term, it’s about ensuring all programs are gender equitable and that athletes are safe, both mentally and physically,” she said.

In addition to her athletic and advocacy work, Akpan remains deeply grateful for the support of her family. 

"My parents are awesome,” she said. 

“They’ve done so much to make sure my siblings and I are supported. Seeing how much they give back in different ways has really inspired me. I've gotten so much from other people, and I feel the need to give back and do the same for others."

Akpan’s gratitude extends to her rugby career. Before every game, she takes a moment to ground herself in appreciation for the opportunities she has. 

"I always try to remind myself to sit in gratitude," she said. 

"It can be taken away so easily, especially playing a contact sport. I'll lay down on the turf before a game and just think, ‘I’m so incredibly privileged. I get to do the thing I love with the people I love, and with the people I love watching me.’ That moment of gratitude is everything, especially when things get chaotic with exams or playoffs."

Looking forward, Akpan’s definition of success remains grounded in the values that have guided her journey. 

“Success, to me, would be that while I was a student-athlete, I gave 110% each day,” she said. 

"Whether it’s being the best player, the best teammate, or doing my best in the classroom, I want to connect with people and create a community. For me, that would bring a huge sense of fulfillment and happiness."

For Akpan, rugby is more than a game; it’s a way to build a legacy, one that will inspire future generations of X-Women players.