Jen Kish is a celebrated former rugby union player from Canada, renowned for her exceptional contributions to the sport, particularly in the sevens format. Her rugby journey began at the age of 16 when she joined the provincial team in Alberta, quickly advancing to the U-19 Team Canada roster. Kish’s early dedication and talent led her to captain the U-19 team, showcasing her leadership skills and commitment to representing Canada on the international stage. She made her mark in the Women’s Fifteens Team, participating in three Nations Cups and the 2010 Women’s Rugby World Cup, before transitioning to the sevens format, where she truly excelled.
As captain of Canada’s Women’s Sevens Team from 2012 to 2016, Kish led her squad to remarkable achievements, including a silver medal at the 2013 Rugby World Cup Sevens in Moscow and a gold medal at the 2015 Pan American Games. Her outstanding performance earned her the title of Sevens Player of the Year in 2013, marking her as one of the top players in the sport. Kish’s leadership culminated in a historic bronze medal win at the 2016 Summer Olympics in Rio de Janeiro, solidifying her legacy as a key figure in Canadian rugby.
Throughout her career, Kish played in 134 matches, scoring 170 points, and was instrumental in Canada’s consistent top-three finishes in the World Rugby Women’s Sevens Series. Her influence extended beyond the pitch; she was recognized as the Most Influential Athlete by the Canadian Association for the Advancement of Women and Sport and Physical Activity in 2016, highlighting her role as a trailblazer for women in sports.
After announcing her retirement in 2018 due to injuries, Kish has remained an advocate for women’s participation in sports and continues to inspire the next generation of athletes. With a strong social media presence, she champions gender equality in sports and encourages young women to pursue their dreams. Kish’s journey reflects resilience, dedication, and a passion for rugby that has left an indelible mark on the sport in Canada.