Siusie Dawson: Training for Performance, Purpose, and the Love of the Game
Finding Rugby and Finding Her Strength
Siusie Dawson did not stumble into rugby. She found it at exactly the right moment. During her freshman year of college, she was introduced to the sport and instantly fell in love. Rugby offered everything she was looking for: strength, physicality, mental resilience, and empowerment that extended far beyond the field.
“I love that rugby empowers me to be strong and demands both physical toughness and mental resilience.”
From the very beginning, it was clear this was more than just a game.
College Rugby and Unforgettable Memories
Siusie went on to play for the University of Wisconsin–Eau Claire, where rugby became the foundation of many of her favorite college memories. The sport opened doors, built lifelong connections, and created experiences she will always carry with her.
“Most of my best college memories are of rugby and the opportunities it gave me.”
One moment stands out above the rest: traveling to New Orleans for Nationals during her senior year, a highlight that remains one of her proudest memories.
Training for Performance, Not Aesthetics
Rugby did not just shape Siusie as an athlete. It changed how she approaches fitness altogether. The demands of the sport required her to shift away from training for appearance and instead focus on performance.
Strength, explosiveness, agility, endurance, and recovery all became priorities. Fueling her body properly was no longer optional. Food became a key part of training, competition, and recovery.
“Rugby taught me to take a performance-driven approach instead of focusing on surface-level aesthetics.”
That mindset continues to guide her training today.
Staying Connected to the Rugby Community
After college, Siusie remained deeply connected to the rugby community. She played for the Twin Cities Amazons during the 2024 season and currently competes with both the Metropolis Valkyries and the Twin Cities Gemini.
Rugby continues to be a central part of her life, pushing her to stay strong, resilient, and prepared for new challenges.
Finding Gifford Fitness
Siusie was first introduced to Gifford Fitness through a team workout with the Amazons Rugby Club. The environment immediately stood out. It was supportive, challenging, and aligned with her performance goals.
“I loved the environment and felt that Gifford Fitness could help me reach my performance goals.”
Growth Inside the Gym
Since joining Gifford, Siusie has seen significant improvements in her conditioning, strength, and overall athleticism. While barbell PRs have been exciting, she is equally proud of her progress in technique and work capacity.
“That 40-minute EMOM hates to see me coming.”
Consistency, strong coaching, and community support have all played a role in her growth.
Showing Up on the Hard Days
Even the most disciplined athletes face challenging days. For Siusie, consistency comes from keeping her long-term goals in focus.
“When motivation is lacking, I focus on my long-term goals and rely on discipline over motivation.”
Some movements remain humbling, and wall walks continue to be one of her toughest challenges.
Balancing Work, Training, and Life
Outside the gym, Siusie works as the Facility and Event Coordinator for the City of Coon Rapids. Early mornings and late evenings are often part of her routine, but she is fortunate to work with a team that supports her commitment to fitness and rugby.
Training is treated as a priority and scheduled just like any other important appointment.
Life Beyond the Gym
When she is not training, Siusie enjoys staying active in different ways. Hiking, reading, baking sourdough, and spending time with friends and her Great Pyrenees, Murphy, all help her recharge. She recently started scuba diving and is currently working toward her certification.
“I like to stay busy and try new things. It keeps life exciting.”
Inspired by Community
At the heart of Siusie’s fitness journey are the people around her. Teammates, training partners, and classmates continually inspire her by pushing themselves, learning new skills, and showing up consistently.
“Seeing how far I’ve come, and watching others push themselves, keeps me hungry to improve.”
A Perfect Day
For Siusie, the perfect day is simple. Time with friends, spikeball, a BBQ, and a boat make for the ideal combination.
Whether she is grinding through a tough workout, preparing for a rugby match, or chasing her next adventure, Siusie Dawson trains with purpose. Gifford Fitness is proud to have her as part of the community, bringing intensity, consistency, and a performance-focused mindset to every class she attends.