From construction cadet to international rugby player, Chanel Williams is showing what’s possible when passion meets purpose.
A proud Yuin and Bundjalung woman with ties to both the South Coast and Northern Coast of NSW, Chanel recently joined BY Group as a Construction Cadet after completing her HSC. While she’s just starting her journey in the construction industry, she’s already made huge strides on the sporting field — recently earning a place in the Australia A Rugby 7s squad, set to tour Japan in early June 2025.
We sat down with Chanel to hear about her early rugby days, the influence of her family and culture and what it means to represent her mob and country on the global stage.
Firstly, congratulations on your achievement, Chanel! We’d love to get a brief recap of your career to date.
Thank you. I started playing rugby at the age of 4 with the boys. When I moved back home at 8, I transitioned to rugby sevens by age 10 playing with the girls, joining my junior club Randwick magic. Currently I play for Sydney University and with the NSW Waratahs Sevens team.
What made you want to start playing?
I started playing because I grew up watching my dad play. Seeing him out there with so much passion made me want to be just like him.
Image credit: Australian Schools Rugby
Who inspired you the most?
My mum has always been my biggest inspiration. Even though she has never played rugby, she taught me the importance of showing up and giving your all, no matter how you’re feeling. She showed me that it’s okay to make mistakes and face setbacks, what really matters is how you respond. It’s the way you bounce back that shows who you truly are. The strength and resilience she lives by is something I carry with me every time I do anything.
How would you describe your journey from when you were young to now representing Australia internationally?
It’s been an incredible journey full of challenges, growth and unforgettable moments. Since I was 5 yrs old, I always wanted to play for Australia. There were ups and downs along the way, but every setback taught me something and made stronger. It’s taken a lot of hard work, resilience and support from the people around me. Wearing the green and gold is something I’m proud of, and my whole family too.
What have been some major career highlights for you so far?
Winning the Australian school’s tournament in Sunshine Coast 2024. It was my last year in the team, and I got the privilege to captain the team going through the tournament undefeated and especially beating QLD in the grand final has been one of my favourite highlights.
What position do you play? And what is your training regime like?
I play 10 and centre, so I’m really involved in directing play and creating opportunities. My training regime is pretty intense. I train four times a week with full-on field and gym sessions. It’s a good mix of skills, fitness and strength, and it keeps me sharp both physically and mentally.
How does your work at BY Group assist you with your personal growth or future aspirations?
Working at BY Group, they definitely support me, especially in balancing my rugby commitments. This support helps me stay focused and grow both personally and professionally. It allows me to manage my time effectively and pursue my future goals in rugby while gaining valuable skills and experience through work.
What was your reaction when you got the news that you’d made the Australia A Rugby 7s squad?
I was honestly speechless. It was such a surreal moment I felt proud, emotional, and grateful all at once. All the hard work, the extra sessions, the setbacks it all felt worth it. I’ve been working towards this team for awhile now and getting the call that I got in was just the icing on the cake for me. I just kept thinking about my nan. I wish she was here to celebrate it with me because she was my biggest supporter. She always believed in me and would be telling me to just play my own game and enjoy it. Making the Aus A team means so much, and I know she’s with me every step of the way.
And finally, what are you most looking forward to about the Japan tour?
I’m definitely looking forward to the culture of Japan and having the opportunity to represent my mob and country. Growing through the experience on and off the field is important to me and I have been working towards this for a while now so it’s a dream come true.
Chanel’s journey is just beginning, and already, she’s making her mark.
At BY Group, we’re incredibly proud to support young Indigenous talent like Chanel as she builds her career in construction and chases her goals on the world rugby stage. Her story is one of culture and determination, and we’ll be cheering her on as she represents Australia and her community in Japan this June.
And if you're interested, check out our blog on what sports means at BY Group.