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For Ruby Miller, travelling to Japan for the 2025 Deaflympics was the fulfilment of a dream and the result of years of hard work, resilience and commitment to sport.
Growing up in regional Australia, Ruby was involved in all kinds of sport from a young age. She first connected with Deaf sport through the Australian Deaf Games, where she competed in swimming as a child. Over time, her love of sport continued to grow and eventually led her to soccer, where she found her place with the Australian Deaf Women’s Koalas.
Competing at the Deaflympics was a proud and unforgettable moment for Ruby. Representing Australia on the world stage was something she had always wanted to do, and she described it as a dream come true. Wearing the green and gold, standing alongside her teammates and knowing she was making her family proud made the experience especially meaningful.
Ruby’s journey has not been without challenges. Living in a rural area has meant regularly having to advocate for herself in sporting environments where people do not always understand deafness or access needs. Coaches and referees may not realise how easily communication can be missed in fast-moving team sport. Ruby has learned to navigate this by being patient, explaining what she needs and helping others understand the adjustments that support inclusion.
Her Deaflympics experience also showed her what accessible sport can look like. Surrounded by other deaf and hard of hearing athletes, Ruby felt a strong sense of belonging and ease. Communication on the field relied on visual cues, signs and interpreters on the sideline, creating a calmer and more inclusive environment. It also strengthened her confidence and reminded her that being deaf is not something negative, but part of who she is.
Ruby’s report also highlights the commitment behind the experience. In the lead-up to the Deaflympics, she travelled long distances from Yanco in New South Wales to Sydney for training while balancing her HSC studies. At the Games, she played an important role in the team’s campaign, starting in all but one match, including the bronze medal match against Great Britain.
With support from Deaf Children Australia’s youth grant, Ruby was able to take part in this important opportunity and continue striving towards her goals.
If you want to learn more, please watch the interview below.
