International Women’s Week: Tyler Miller

International Women’s Day was first marked in 1911 – 110 years ago. What makes this day important to you?

I’ve found it can be really easy to focus on micro day-to-day activities relating to sport, or short-mid term goals. I think having this day prompts a bit of a disconnect from that and allows me to step back and really appreciate the opportunities I’ve had, what I’ve been able to achieve and to enhance my passion for my future. I think acknowledging others on this day also helps to strengthen the community and helps to build a sense of appreciation and belonging to a group of sportswoman, irrespective of what sport we compete in or any other social or political aspect.

 Were there barriers that you faced (or continue to face) as a woman to becoming successful in your sport, career, and studies? How did you overcome them?

 I think the biggest barrier I face is being a female in a male dominated sport. It certainly hasn’t always been easy, and I’ve experienced some gender related abuse/bias. One of the key things for me is to remember to “control the controllables” – I can’t control what others think about me, but I can control how I interact with them and the level that I hold myself too. I know I’m as good as my male counterparts, so just because a minority of people may have a different opinion about that based on my gender rather than my ability doesn’t bother me, because I can’t control that, but I can control how I will let it affect me.

Who is your biggest female influence or icon?

I have 2 that come to mind. Pertaining to my sport, it is Amy Perrett. The amount of accolades and accomplishments she has in itself is enough to make her an icon, but above that she has supported me personally and I feel a lot of my growth can be attributed to the help she has provided me. Outside of rugby, but still staying in sport, another icon for me is Tia Clair Toomey. I love seeing females achieve amazing things, and Tia’s achievements continue to break barriers and raise the bar for females in sport.

What advice did you receive early in your sporting career that has stayed with you?

I know it is a fairly common phrase in sport, but “control the controllables” for me is something I heard very early that probably didn’t sink in, but when it did, it really clicked and put so much in to perspective for me. I find it to be grounding for me for so many aspects in sport and life. In any situation where I feel a “crisis” I just remind myself of this and it really does put a lot in to perspective and helps me to refocus. 

Based on your own experience, what advice would you give to women considering pursuing a career in sport? 

I know refereeing can seem daunting, but honestly, it is so rewarding both personally and professionally. The amount of knowledge, life lessons, memories, travelling and friends that I have gained over my career is something that doesn’t come along very often. Although it requires effort and commitment, you are rewarded tenfold.