At only 19, Ibarra has established herself in the USA sevens team and, ahead of making her Rugby World Cup debut, she took time out to answer some quickfire questions at the team hotel in Newcastle…
What does it mean to you to be part of the USA squad at the Women’s Rugby World Cup?
“It’s really special. I’m one of the youngest on the team so getting to represent my country just a year out of high school is really special. Getting to represent my family on the world stage on Friday in front of 40,000 people will be amazing.”
What are you most looking forward to about the tournament?
“Getting my first World Cup under my belt and just taking it all in, learning from mistakes, learning from the crowd and the environment.”
You’re amazing at rugby, but are there any jobs you think you’d be terrible at?
“Cooking. I’m not a chef so the only thing I know how to cook is some milk and some cereal.”
Do you have an irrational fear?
“I really don’t like spiders. I hate spiders. No good.”
Aside from the USA’s supporters, which country would you say has the best rugby fans?
“New Zealand. Very hearty, hearty fans and I used to live over there so I’ve experienced it myself.”
What would be your hype song when you’re on the coach and getting in the zone?
“First one that comes to mind is Nokia by Drake. It’s a new one.”
If you could have an unlimited supply of anything, what would it be?
“Money. Gets me everywhere.”
With so many countries competing at this year’s World Cup, if you could speak any language instantly, which one would you choose?
“Spanish. I think a lot of people speak Spanish so I would want to be bilingual in Spanish and English.”
If you could choose anywhere to go on holiday, where would it be?
“I really want to go to the Maldives for the beach and the sun. I’d prefer a beachy holiday or maybe Italy for that good food.”
What would you say is your most random hobby when you’re not playing rugby?
“I really like to build Lego. I’m a big Lego girl, so building my collection when I’m not on the field. I built this Disney set; it’s the Fantasmic!, so it’s got Mickey Mouse and a bunch of little sets of other Disney movies.”
If you could bring back any fashion trends, no matter how questionable, what would you choose?
“I would choose big, flarey tutus, because why not?”
If you could have a personal mascot to represent you at the tournament, what would it be?
“It would be Mickey Mouse, because I love Disney.”
You’re so young competing at such a high level – what made you fall in love with the sport?
“I fell in love with this sport because it’s for everybody and getting to play on the stage at a young age is an example to younger girls around me that it’s possible at any time in your life. I’m 19 and I’m here and I’m doing it, and I have two younger sisters so I wanted to be that example to them that your dream can take you anywhere, and it’s gotten me here to the Rugby World Cup 2025.”