Photo: Personal archive of Artem Rybaulin
In the demanding world of professional sports, where allegiances can shift with the winds of opportunity, some stories stand as testaments to enduring loyalty and deep-rooted passion. Artem Rybaulin, the recently appointed captain of Moscow`s Slava Rugby Club, embodies such a narrative. A decade in the trenches, from the youth academy to leading the senior squad, Rybaulin`s journey offers a unique window into the evolution of a club and the unwavering spirit of a sportsman.
From Childhood Hobby to Professional Calling
For many athletes, the path to professionalism is a carefully plotted trajectory. For Rybaulin, it began more serendipitously. Rugby was initially “just something to play,” a casual pursuit. Yet, the sight of Slava`s first team ignited a spark, transforming a hobby into a nascent ambition. It wasn`t a calculated decision to become a professional, but rather a natural progression, a gravitational pull towards the sport that would define his life. “Somehow, I just became a professional athlete,” he reflects with a hint of understated irony, acknowledging the organic nature of his ascent.
The Weight of the Captain`s Armband
This season, Rybaulin embraced a new challenge: the captaincy. A role bestowed upon him by his teammates, it`s a responsibility he takes with profound seriousness. For Rybaulin, being captain isn`t about grand pronouncements or flashy gestures; it`s about the quiet, analytical strength required to make pivotal decisions on the field. “A captain is someone who must always remain cool-headed,” he states, highlighting the critical link between composure and performance. The game, he believes, is often shaped by these calculated, on-the-spot leadership choices.
His immediate goal for the season is deceptively simple: “Play and improve from match to match, analyzing and correcting mistakes.” This continuous pursuit of marginal gains, of turning “winning micro-elements” into overall victory, is the hallmark of a true competitor.
A Decade of Devotion: The Unbreakable Bond with Slava
In an era of free agency and frequent transfers, Rybaulin`s ten-year tenure with Slava is remarkable. As a product of the SDYuSShOR Slava youth academy, his roots run deep. His initial attraction to the club stemmed from its “team spirit,” fostered by his coaches, a camaraderie that seamlessly transitioned into the first team. “Regardless of age or status, everyone is ready to stand up for you,” he explains, painting a picture of a tight-knit family.
When asked about the changes he`s witnessed over a decade, Rybaulin acknowledges the inevitable: “Much has changed in the organization and management of the club.” Yet, he immediately pivots to what truly matters: “But the traditions have remained unchanged… Slava is eternal.” This sentiment encapsulates a powerful truth about enduring institutions: while structures may evolve, the core values and spirit can persist, defining their identity across generations.
Rugby: More Than Just a Game
What compels a man to dedicate his life to a sport as physically demanding as rugby? For Rybaulin, it`s a matter of intrinsic connection. “It`s now an integral part of my life. Rugby pulls you in. It`s more than sport,” he asserts. He sees it as a “family and collective,” an observation amplified by the relatively smaller, intimate nature of the rugby community. This communal aspect, the shared struggle and camaraderie, forms the bedrock of his motivation.
His ultimate sporting dream is not about fleeting glory but sustained excellence: “To play at a high level and show good play for as long as possible. That is the most pleasant thing for any athlete.” It`s a desire for longevity and consistent contribution, a testament to his deep love for the game itself.
The Gentleman`s Game for Real Men
Defining the ideal rugby player isn`t straightforward, according to Rybaulin. He believes that due to the sport`s diverse positions and demands, “everyone can find a position for themselves in rugby,” regardless of physical or psychological traits. However, he does offer a succinct, classic description: “Rugby is a gentleman`s game for real men.” This seemingly paradoxical statement—a brutal contact sport played by gentlemen—speaks to the unique ethos of respect, discipline, and sportsmanship that underpins the game, even amidst its ferocity.
And yes, conflicts do arise. “Of course, conflicts happen. We are all human,” he admits, acknowledging the heat of the moment. But even these emotional outbursts can serve a purpose: “Sometimes emotions, on the contrary, help you rise and invigorate.” It`s a pragmatic view of human nature on the pitch, where passion, when channeled correctly, can fuel performance.
A Call to the Pitch: Advice for Aspiring Ruggers
To those drawn to the thunderous collisions and strategic complexity of rugby, Rybaulin offers straightforward advice rooted in his own experience:
- Work Hard: “Toil and work. Only then will everything come.”
- Believe in Yourself: Unwavering self-confidence is crucial.
- Trust Your Teammates: “Trust in the team is very important. It will help you reach the top.”
Artem Rybaulin`s story is more than just an account of a rugby player; it`s a narrative about dedication, leadership forged in fire, and the enduring power of community within sport. As Slava Rugby continues its journey, it does so with a captain who understands that while much may change, the heart and soul of the game – and the club – remain eternal.
