Sara Jay Interview
Before we dive into this interview, here’s a brief overview of Sara Jay. Originally from New Zealand, Sara Jay made a lasting impact on the Australian wrestling scene, competing for promotions such as PWA Queensland and New Age Wrestling in Victoria. In 2007, she became the inaugural NAW Women’s Champion after winning a battle royal, cementing her place in history. Her talent soon took her beyond Australian shores, leading her to Puerto Rico—a renowned wrestling hotspot where she continued to thrive. There, she made history once again by winning the World Wrestling Council Women’s Championship in her debut match for the promotion. After an impressive career, Sara Jay stepped away from professional wrestling in 2016. In this interview, she shares what she’s been up to since her retirement and reflects on her journey both in and out of the ring.
Marek: Can you take us through what the Women’s scene was like when you left wrestling? Who were some of the names performing and were they being booked regularly?
Sara Jay: In Australia, I was competing against the likes of Toni Storm, Savannah Summers, and ( then ) newcomers such as Catherine Minx. In Europe before I returned to Australia, I wrestled against Raven Creed and Nikki Storm. Some may recognise these names from WWE.
What made you want to become a professional wrestler?
Sara: I grew up in New Zealand watching WWF on TV. As a little girl I collected wrestling figurines and collectors cards. My father also built a small wooden wrestling ring for me to play with for my figurines. I was hooked even as a very young girl!
What was your first day at training like was it what you expected? Were you nervous? Did you have different view on wrestling after the first day of training?
Sara: I was 15yrs old. I wasn’t even 5ft then ( I maxed out at 5ft ) and very skinny. Oh and I was a GIRL. I definitely did not look like I could pack a punch. I met one of my trainers and one of the male wrestlers who was assigned to assist me. He is still someone I value today. My initial training was done for around 12 weeks in private lessons. From there I could move into the group lessons. My first day was certainly a mix of nerves and excitement! I knew immediately, that “THIS” was what I had to do!
What are your thoughts on some of the Australian women in WWE & AEW. Rhea Ripley, Toni Storm, Steph De Lander, Harley Cameron?
Sara: It’s fantastic that the world has ( finally ) taken notice of the talent that Australian women have.
Can you talk about your time wrestling overseas and are there any main differences from the styles of wrestling to that here in Australia?
Sara: I was the first solo female from Australia ( Kiwi ) to ever travel overseas to wrestle. Now it seems like the “norm”.
Living in the USA, I wrestled for many lucha libre feds – they were all in Spanish. They were my favourite to wrestle for…their wrestlers, their shows, & their crowds were the most energetic crowds. Puerto Rico, the crowds were extremely passionate. Both in USA & living in Europe meant I encountered more opportunity to wrestle. Wrestling in both my home country of New Zealand & Australia meant less weekly wrestling opportunities.
What are some of the things young wrestlers performing overseas for the first time should be mindful of?
Sara: Always be willing to pitch in and help. Many promoters may say “you’re a guest you don’t need to give us a hand”. Do it anyway! It is always appreciated!
Can you give us an update on what you’re up to nowadays and are you still involved in wrestling?
Sara: Outside of helping various wrestlers & feds, I’ve done alot of competing in strongman both in Australia & New Zealand. I’m still heavily involved in my other lifelong passion, horses! I’m an advocate for riding & upholding the history & elegant art of Side Saddle – a true contrast to wrestling! Yet, side saddle takes skill & those who jump & hunt aside most definitely should be applauded for their guts, heart & determination. Perhaps that’s one reason why I love it. Just like wrestling where I was often the only female wrestler in a sea of male wrestlers, I’m the only one competing “aside” in a sea of “astride” riders. Both dealing with the obstacles of misunderstanding people, whilst trying to promote, teach & educate. Perhaps, the two sports are more alike than they appear. Or perhaps, I’m just a sucker for the ” less favorable” sports?
What advice would you give women with a similar size to you who may believe they wouldn’t be able to perform in the ring?
Sara: Ignore the “doubts”. There aren’t many of us petite women wrestling, but we do stand out. We already have to work harder as women in a male dominated sport, and being petite in stature means we must work even harder, so we have the burden ( or honour ) of being better than the rest!
For a more detailed look at the career of Sara Jay head over to her official facebook page, click here.
