In the world of sports, perseverance often takes center stage, and the story of Pâmela dos Santos Soares is a testament to that. Her journey to becoming a full-fledged member of the Brazilian national rugby team, known as the Yaras, is an inspiring tale of resilience and unwavering belief.
Born and raised in Santo André, São Paulo, Santos' life took an unexpected turn when she stumbled upon a rugby program at the University of Rio Grande do Sul. With no prior knowledge of the sport, she took a leap of faith and joined the team, igniting a passion that would shape her future.
"The team embraced me as one of their own from the very beginning. I felt at home, and the challenges of the sport only fueled my desire to improve," Santos recalls. Her natural talent and dedication quickly led her to join a club team, Atlântico Sul Rugby, where she began to dream of representing her country.
However, the road to becoming a Yara was paved with setbacks. Santos endured six long years of national team camps, each time falling short of the final cut. But instead of giving up, she drew strength from her passion and the support of her teammates.
"'Abola bateu na trave' - the shot hit the post. That's how I describe my journey. I kept believing, even when reality seemed to knock me down. I refused to accept defeat," she shares.
The turning point came in 2024 when Emiliano Caffera, the new head coach, offered Santos a chance to prove herself. She seized the opportunity, moving to São Paulo and committing fully to her rugby aspirations. Despite initial disappointment, Santos' hard work paid off as Brazil secured its place in the Women's Rugby World Cup 2025, and she was offered a full-time contract.
Santos' decision to leave her stable life as an accountant and pursue her rugby dreams showcases an incredible mental fortitude. "Being a Yara is about representing something greater than myself - my family, my roots, and my history. It's a privilege to wear that jersey," she explains.
Her debut as a Yara in 2024 against a representative team from the US was a moment of pure emotion. "It was a dream come true, and I'll never forget the support of my rugby mother, Maria Roberta, who has been a constant source of inspiration," Santos says.
The 2025 World Cup was a pinnacle moment for Santos and the Yaras. "Hearing my name announced at the official presentation was surreal. We were making history, and the support from Brazilian fans was overwhelming. It showed that we had arrived on the world stage," she reflects.
Even an injury couldn't deter Santos from her path. She fought through the pain to play in two World Cup matches, an experience she describes as "emotional and privileged." Despite not winning, the Yaras left a lasting impression, proving that Brazil belongs in the elite ranks of women's rugby.
Looking ahead, Santos is excited about the WXV Global Series Challenger in September, a chance to build on their World Cup success. "Kirimbawasa - a native Brazilian word that embodies the spirit of a warrior - is how I'd describe the Yaras. We fight until the end, and that's what makes us special," she says.
Inspiring others to never give up, Santos concludes, "Rugby has the power to transform. It teaches you resilience, unlocks your potential, and gives you a family. So, keep believing and fighting, because dreams do come true."
Santos' story is a reminder that sometimes the greatest rewards come to those who are willing to take risks and never lose hope.
