Erin Overcash

Decorated combat aviator Anne McClain racked up 350 days in orbit and executed three space walks, repeatedly citing her rugby background as the foundation for her physical endurance, operational flexibility, and high-stakes teamwork.

Joining their ranks in the NASA astronaut group 24 is Lieutenant Commander Erin Overcash, a former Eagles utility back and Super Hornet test pilot.

Overcash views the split-second decision-making, physical grit, and unwavering mutual trust forged in international rugby matches as crucial survival tools for high-risk extreme space flight environments.

Their achievements highlight an extraordinary pipeline from top-tier rugby to human space exploration.