Carissa Norsten: From U SPORTS to Olympic glory

Carissa Norsten played a pivotal role in leading the women’s rugby 7s Team Canada to a silver medal at the 2024 Paris Olympics. Still, the University of Victoria student-athlete says she didn’t pick up rugby until her mid-teens.

"I didn’t start playing rugby until I was 15 or 16," said Norsten.

"I played soccer, volleyball, and basketball in high school. But it was so fun to play a full-contact sport with women. It’s empowering, and I'm really excited to get to do that with some of my best friends all the time."

Norsten’s speed and agility were crucial to Canada’s success in Paris. Known for her quick footwork, she thrived in high-pressure situations, often setting up teammates or capitalizing on opportunities herself.

"I’m definitely more of a speed player,” said Norsten.

“I like to use footwork and have nice runs to get around people and set up my teammates or maybe have a go for myself."

Her ability to maintain composure and deliver under pressure was evident throughout the Olympic tournament, where Canada faced off against the world’s best teams. Canada’s path to the silver medal was far from easy. The team entered the Olympics as underdogs, and made a rapid climb from ninth to second place.

"We were within seven points of New Zealand in the final at the Olympics," said Norsten. 

"Looking overall at how far the program has come in just a year was incredible. We went from ninth to second, and we just got an Olympic silver medal. It was so special, just so fun."

Norsten credits much of her preparation for the Olympics to her time in U SPORTS, where the competitive environment shaped her ability to perform at the highest level. Competing in the World Series throughout the year also helped her adjust to the demands of the Olympics. 

"We play the World Series every year,” said Norsten. 

“It’s like the same structure, the same vibe. So just getting in the zone... obviously, the Olympics is a bigger deal, but it helps to have that foundation.”

This preparation paid off in Paris, as Norsten and her teammates stayed calm and focused, even in front of the deafening cheers of 66,000 fans. 

"It was so loud. It didn’t actually feel real," she said.

While Norsten’s silver medal is a proud symbol of her achievements, for her, the value lies in the journey.

"Quite a few of us on the team went through the U SPORTS pathway to the national team," said Norsten.

She notes the unique bond she shares with her teammates, many of whom were once rivals at the U SPORTS championships. Norsten believes the friendships and experiences she gained through U SPORTS have been instrumental in her development as both an athlete and a person.

“It didn’t really hit us until we got to the village that we were going to the Olympics, it was crazy,” said Norsten. 

“And just like doing that with some of my closest friends was so cool. It’s so special to go through the pathway and get to meet so many people along the way.”