Sevens star Levi reflects on 'emotional rollercoaster' after back-to-back red cards

Tue, Feb 13, 2024, 2:22 AM
Nathan Williamson
by Nathan Williamson
Maddison Levi has learnt her lesson after back to back red cards. Photo: World Rugby

Sevens superstar Maddison Levi concedes tackle technique has to be a major focus if she wishes to maintain her damaging start to her career.

Levi was awarded the Shawn MacKay Medal as Women's Sevens Player of the Year after an incredible season that established her as one of the best in the world.

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Her 57 tries are the most in a World Series, narrowly missing out on World Player of the Year.

It leaves the 21-year-old already in the top 15 for most tries in World Series history after just two seasons.

However, Levi's fast start was grounded to a halt after two ugly high tackles in back-to-back games.

It started with a high shot just before half-time in the thrilling Final win over France, missing the group stages in Perth before another high tackle saw Levi sent off once again and leave the ground in tears.

“It’s been a bit of an emotional rollercoaster," Levi reflects to Rugby.com.au

“Dubai and Cape Town were such unreal tournaments for me and I was able to showcase what I had been working on in pre-season.

“There were two little setbacks but the girls are like my sisters so they’ve been beside me and helping me deal with it.

“They came out and absolutely smashed Perth facing so much adversity. I’ve got something to work on so tackle technique is definitely a main focus of my training. It’s the highs and lows of sport so you have to experience it all. Last year was so good but it’s a little bit of adversity so I’ll be back better than her."

Levi received a four-match ban for her hit, serving half of the suspension during the semi and grand final. 

It'll mean she will miss matches against Japan and Fiji before returning to face the USA in a rematch of the Perth semis.

Already etched in the record books, Levi believes she still has so much more growth left in her game.

“We work so hard on that strength, speed and power and I think those skills I’m just building on as a player which makes it easier to take the outside," she added.

“I think it’s something I’ve always had, that ability to back myself and when all else fails, I can carry strong. I think whilst building that speed and power, I can continue to build my game.”

The Australians will head to Vancouver over the next week as they attempt to extend their 12-point lead on top of the World Series ladder.

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