Navy Physical Therapist Finds Challenge, Fulfillment in Rugby

 May 17, 2021 | BY David Vergun , DOD News

Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders have shaped the history of the United States and have had their lives dramatically influenced by moments in its history. Every May the Defense Department joins the rest of the nation in celebrating Asian American Pacific Islander Heritage Month.

Navy Lt. Tia Blythe was born in California, as was her mother. Her maternal grandparents immigrated to the United States from China in 1952.

Blythe joined the Navy through a direct commission as a lieutenant in 2018. She serves in the Medical Service Corps as a physical therapist, having already obtained a bachelors and masters degree from the University of California at Los Angeles before getting her doctorate degree in physical therapy from the University of Southern California. 

"After working as a civilian physical therapist for three years, I knew that I needed to do more," she said. "I was drawn to the military because I knew I would constantly be challenged, to learn, to grow and to lead, and the Navy provided opportunities to have a positive effect on the lives of thousands of sailors and Marines. 

Blythe admitted that it was her dream to serve ever since she was in high school, but it took her a decade after graduating from high school to take the plunge and join the Navy.

"I could not be happier with my decision. I am proud to be an Asian American service member. I can celebrate my heritage while being proud of my country and the work that I do. Ultimately, I chose the U.S. Navy because my grandfather served on the USS Oriskany [aircraft carrier] in 1956. He reminds me of the sacrifices my grandparents have made to allow me to have the opportunities I have today as an American," she said.

Since being commissioned at Officer Development School at Naval Station Newport, Rhode Island, Blythe has been stationed at Naval Medical and Readiness Training Center, Camp Pendleton, California.

Besides being a physical therapist, Blythe also is a member of the Navy Women's Rugby team. 

"Rugby has provided me with lifelong friends, confidence, and an unwavering work ethic. It has empowered me to be a leader," she said.

In the past, Blythe played rugby on the UCLA Women's Rugby Team, San Diego Women's Premier League team and on the USA Women's National Team.

She also captained teams to four national championships, traveled to Okinawa, Scotland, Hong Kong, Australia and Dubai for matches, and won a Silver Medal in the Rugby World Series. 

As for future plans, Blythe said she would like to make a career of the Navy and continue playing and coaching rugby.

She's also begun working on a virtual coaching project that will allow her to coach athletes from all over the country no matter where her Navy assignment takes her.