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CONTENTS
WINTER 2014/15 ISSUE 06
IN THIS ISSUE
THE FEATURES
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COVER STORY
THEY CAME TO HONOUR HIM
Gareth Rees inducted into Canada’s Sports Hall of Fame. BY DOUG CROSSE
COVER
18 YEAR IN REVIEW
A quick look back at what was a fantastic year for Canadian rugby BY BRYAN KELLY
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LEST WE FORGET
The Senior Women’s National Team visit Vimy Ridge. BY BRYAN KELLY
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BUILT TO LAST
Capilano Rugby club is more than just a clubhouse. It’s a rugby gem. BY MARK JANZEN
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CLOSING THE GAP
Women’s Sevens team finished 3rd place in World Rugby Sevens Rankings. BY MARK SHELDON
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BEST YEAR EVER.
Men’s Sevens team finished 6th place in World Rugby Sevens Rankings. BY BRYAN KELLY
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LEGAL DREAM DREAM
Rugby Canada has many needs from a dream legal team.
THE MAGALI EFFECT
Magali Harvey had a TSN hi-lite try and put women’s rugby in the national spotlight. Well done. BY BRYAN KELLY
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FOUR-PEAT!
The Ontario Blues are a dynasty.
BY BROCK SMITH
THE INSIDERS
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4 FREEZE FRAME
The best rugby images from the past months.
10 MESSAGE FROM RUGBY CANADA & THE EDITOR 12 THE ENGINE ROOM Not all rugby news happens on the pitch.
14 SOCIALLY SPEAKING
Who is sayin’ what on the web and the twitterverse.
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33 COMMUNITY
Dr. Benvon Parfrey was the foundation of rugby in Newfoundland and Labrador.
41 SPOTLIGHT
Is Phil Mackenzie the most positive man in Canadian rugby? BY PATRICK JOHNSON
44 FUNDRAISING
Support your rugby community.
PARTNERS IN THE PURSUIT OF EXCELLENCE
46 THE LAST WORD Langford
Meaghan Howat talks about an exciting year but let’s look even further to 2017.
COVER: A COLLAGE OF PLAYERS THAT HAVE MADE 2014 AN AWESOME YEAR FOR CANADIAN RUGBY.
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FREEZE FRAME
PRESENTED BY
ROLLING FOG Canada’s Jamie Mackenzie is ready to put the ball in the scrum against the USA at the 2014 Americas Rugby Championships held in Langford, BC.
Photo
Lorne Collicutt 4
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FREEZE FRAME
PRESENTED BY
TORPEDO! Ontario Blues prop Tom Dolezel makes like a battering ram as he scores a try against the British Columbia Bears at University of Guelph in Ontario.
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JosĂŠ Lagman 6
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FREEZE FRAME
PRESENTED BY
TAKE IT ON THE CHIN The action got pretty intense at the BC High school girls 7s competition in British Columbia in October.
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Lorne Collicutt 8
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FIRST WORDS WINTER 2014/15 NUMBER 06
MESSAGE FROM THE CEO
Exciting times for the new year
Publisher Rugby Canada
Editor Doug Crosse Design & Layout PIX Photography José Lagman Ron Leblanc JAG
The New Year is always an interesting time in an organization’s timeline. One can look back at the goals set for the year and measure how things have gone against that estimate, but it is also the time for setting the goals for year ahead. There have been some watershed moments for Canadian rugby, specifically in the area of Sevens rugby that has given many in the Canadian sporting community at large something to cheer about as we prepare our men’s and women’s teams for the Pan American Games, to be hosted this July in Toronto this year, as well as Olympic qualification for Rio de Janiero in 2016. Also in April we will be hosting our first World Rugby Women’s Sevens Tour event, scheduled for April 18–19, 2015 in Langford, BC. 2015 will also mark the 8th straight World Cup the Canadian men’s team will participate in, making them the strongest summer team sport in the country in terms of world rankings. Canada head to England with one of its most complete squads in recent memory and it will certainly be exciting times for Canadian fans around the world as they travel to England or watch at home in September. There are a great many people that help make the rugby community in Canada the successful and vibrant organization it is, and this is also the time of
Contributing Writers Jeff Hull Ian Kennedy Mark Janzen Doug Crosse
Al Charron Penny Kroll Bryan Kelly
JAG
Ian Muir Bryan Kelly
Advertising Sales Mike Thorne 30 East Beaver Creek Unit 110, Richmond Hill, ON (905) 707-8998 x 231 mthorne@rugbycanada.ca Printer Litho Color
RUGBYca magazine is home-delivered to member households (1 per household) three times a year (May, August, October). Delivery addresses are based on the registration information submitted to Rugby Canada. Rugby Canada Provincial Unions are strongly encouraged to provide all Union Executive Member and program participants’ current mailing information in order to receive the subscription. Any address changes should be notified to both the local rugby union and Rugby Canada through the registration system.
RC BOARD OF DIRECTORS PAT ALDOUS KEITH GILLAM GORDON SNEDDON JAY JOHNSTON TROY MYERS LARRY JONES DOUG CAMPBELL TIM POWERS JAMIE LOCKWOOD PEARSE HIGGINS KATHY HENDERSON JOHN SEAMAN BRIAN BURKE CHRIS LE FEVRE DAWN DAUPHINEE MARK LAWSON RICK POWERS ARABA CHINTOH RICK BOURNE CHRIS LEFEVRE
Chairman Vice Chairman Secretary Treasurer Director Director Director Director Director Director Director Director Director Director Female Athlete Rep. Male Athlete Rep. COC Representative Acting Female Athlete Rep. Past Chairman/NACRA Rep. World Rugby Council Rep
CANADA POST CORPORATION agreement no. 42619013 10
GRAHAM BROWN Rugby Canada CEO
MESSAGE FROM THE EDITOR
Dear RUGBYca Readers, Some of you may have been wondering where RUGBYca Issue 3 of Volume 3 had gone and that is a legitimate question. After some internal planning looking at the next few years of competition, the times of year we cover content and when we can best promote upcoming events we determined a new schedule going forward. This required a slight nudge on the existing schedule by moving issue 3 of 2014 into January of 2015. We will then deliver magazines in April and October, thus allowing maximum news coverage and event promotion going forward. We also wanted to apologize to some readers who received the last issue with another person’s name on the mailing label. A database error saw the lines nudge by one at a certain point of the
JAG
RUGBYca magazine is published three times a year by the Rugby Canada , 30 East Beaver Creek, Unit 110, Richmond Hill, Ontario, L4B 1J2. All rights reserved. Reproduction or use, in whole or in part, by any means without the express written consent of the publisher is prohibited. Manuscripts, artwork and photographs are submitted at the sender’s risk. All materials submitted will remain property of Rugby Canada. Views expressed herein are not necessarily those of this magazine, Rugby Canada or its sponsors. No article herein shall constitute endorsement by this magazine or the persons and organizations associated with it. RUGBYca magazine will not knowingly accept fraudulent or misleading advertising. Subscriptions are available at a cost of $13.95 per annum, payable to Rugby Canada care of RUGBYca magazine. All Rugby Canada and Rugby Canada member union logos and marks depicted in this magazine are the property of the Rugby Canada and their respective member unions and may not be reproduced without the prior written consent of the Rugby Canada Marketing Committee. PRINTED IN CANADA.
year you think about those that help in such a variety of ways during the year. The volunteer committees that work with the Rugby Canada staff in various cities and towns across the country were invaluable in 2014. From Langford to Calgary to Sarnia, Ottawa, Toronto and St. John’s, events were held with the valuable help of volunteers on the ground in those locations. Quite simply it would not happen without you, so thank you for all you do for rugby. We are lucky in our sport to have such excellent, committed people who are always there to lend a hand. And occasionally we lose valuable members of the community as well. At the time of writing Dr. Benvon Cramer Parfrey, lifelong partner of Dr. Pat Parfrey’s of St. John’s, NL, sadly passed away. You will read about Benvon’s achievements inside the magazine, but quite simply this is a huge loss to the Newfoundland and Canadian rugby communities, and our condolences go out toPatandtheirchildren,Patrick,Owen,BrendanandKevin. In closing, 2015 is Sport Canada’s, Year in Sport in Canada. I hope every rugby club and program across Canada can help make this year a memorable one. Please have a great 2015 and I will look forward to seeing many of you across the country this year as our sport continues to flourish and grow at all levels.
mail list, resulting in the error, but everyone should have received Issue 2, just possibly with the wrong recipient on the address line. The problem has been resolved and we are looking forward to another exciting year of brining you great rugby coverage from across the country and around the world. Some of the big events we will be looking to cover this year include the Pan Am Games in Toronto, the Pacific Nations Cup will be in Canada in two locations Burnaby and Toronto as well as revised national championship formats in the age grade categories. And of course the big one of them all, Rugby World Cup 2015! Everyone at RUGBYca magazine wishes you Happy New Year ahead and a great rugby season as well!
DOUG CROSSE RUGBYca Editor RUGBY ONTARIO - Provincial Logo FOR PRINT USE ONLY
THANKS TO THE PROVINCIAL UNIONS
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THE ENGINE ROOM NOT ALL RUGBY NEWS HAPPENS ON THE PITCH
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A TOAST TO GAME AND COUNTRY
Through the generosity of former national team player Noel Browne and past National team coach and President Pat Parfrey (the Two Godfathers of Newfoundland Rugby) they have commissioned a beautiful rugby piece in which they are gifting the prints to all those who support the NPSP if a minimum support payment of $1,500 is donated. The framed picture on the wall depicts a line out in action, portraying the skill, athleticism, strategy and uniqueness of the game. The classic leather rugby ball exemplifies the main objective of the game: to work together as a team and get the ball over the goal line. The scarred, hard, old leather of the ball also speaks to the toughness and hard exterior required to play the sport. The book serves as a symbol of history, heritage and the storied legacy of the game form its humble beginnings. The stein personifies the camaraderie, which develops amongst all players, friend and foe alike. The Canadian Maple Leaf symbolizes each individual player as an honoured member of Rugby Canada. The Canadian Flag is draped across all of these symbols as the proud emblem that represents our great country. And finally an underlying element which truly exemplifies the spirit of the game is the tablecloth. Before and after all great matches the players of all teams gather for banquets and gala dinners to meet, celebrate, congratulate and tell stories about this great game. To learn more about the National Player Support Program, please contact Al Charron: acharronrugbycanada.ca
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TWIN ELM NEEDS TO RAISE $40,000
o coincide with its 40th anniversary, Twin Elm Rugby Park (TERP) in Ottawa recently launched a $40,000 ‘build a brick’ fundraising campaign. The park has recently suffered from falling revenues and a successful campaign is vital to protect this historic park from receivership before the 2015 season starts next May. Those wishing to support Twin Elm should visit the fundraising page : http://www.youcaring.com/nonprofits/help-twin-elm-rugby-park-buy-a-brick/276068 The park has recently taken a number of important steps to secure its finances. In 2014, the organization revitalized its Board of Directors and hired of a permanent, part-time General Manager. 12
PRESENTED BY
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CANADIAN WOMEN START 2015 WITH CAMP IN CALIFORNIA Canada’s Women’s Sevens Program arrived in California January 4th ready to begin a 10-day training camp at the United States Olympic Training Center in Chula Vista, San Diego. With a two-month lull in their season schedule, Canada will be using the next two weeks to shake off the rust from the holiday season. It is the second straight year Canada’s women have travelled south in January to train against their American counterparts. “The program has been on a break for a few weeks so restarting it away at a camp really provides us the quality and quantity of time we need together to refocus ourselves on the upcoming qualifiers,” said head coach John Tait.
TRY FOR GOLD HUGE SUCCESS ACROSS THE COUNTRY
The Try 4 Gold Talent ID program held a successful camp in Red Deer today with just over 200 athletes participating. Athletes came to the camp from all over Alberta and Saskatchewan and C even Eastern British Columbia. M Olympic Bobsledder Ken Kotyk, one of the athletes who Y participated, remarked that CM he enjoyed the, “enthusiasm, positive atmosphere and MY inclusive nature of the sport.” The camp was led by Canada’s CY Womens 7s assistant coach, CMY Sandro Fiorino and assisted by Womens 7s and XVs star Jessica K Dovanne. They were assisted in running the camp by Rugby Alberta staff, Graeme Moffat, Tara Eckert, who played in the last Womens 7s World Cup in Dubai, and Grady Bowd. Sandro remarked that this camp was a, “success in both quantity and quality. The important step now, for rugby in Alberta, is to get these players integrated into the 7s program and excited about playing for the provincial and national sides.” In the fall, over a thousand athletes participated in camps ranging from Quebec to Ottawa, Toronto and Burnaby, BC. More camps will be held in 2015. Visit events.rugbycanada.ca for details.
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SOCIALLY SPEAKING WHO IS SAYIN’ WHAT ON THE WEB
PRESENTED BY
QUESTIONS WITH... SEAN DUKE
TYLER ARDRON
RAY BARKWILL
TWITTERVERSE FOLLOW US @RUGBYCANADA
Nate Hirayama @NHirayama10 · Jan 4 I respect this guy’s hockey game attire
5. Who is most likely to go to a Taylor Swift concert?
1. Who has the best hair?
I love Taylor!
SD: Seb Pearson TA: Sean White RB: Jordan Wilson-Ross
SD: Sean White TA: Sean White RB: Jeff Hassler
2. Who you wouldn’t mind being stranded on a deserted island with?
6. Who wou would invite home for Xmas Dinner?
SD: Sean White TA: Jeff Hassler RB: Jon Phelan
SD: Doug Wooldridge TA: Jeff Hassler RB: Doug Wooldridge
3. Who you would be most annoyed with stranded on a deserted island?
7. Who is the best cook?
SD: No one! TA: Jebb Sinclair RB: Jebb Sinclair
SD: Sean White TA: Me! RB: Me!
Jen kish @jen_kish · Jan 4 Hello Sunny San Diego #arrivedsafely
RugbyCanada @RugbyCanada · Dec 24 Check out this AWESOME #Xmas picture from #LindsayRFC in #Ontario! Via @joseromelo! #REDNATION @WorldRugby
4. Who would have the best chance at winning Canadian Idol?
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SD: Jordan Wilson-Ross TA: Jordan Wilson-Ross RB: Pat Parfrey
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SEAN DUKE WINGER RUGBY CANADA
LAURA RUSSELL PROP RUGBY CANADA CONOR TRAINOR CENTRE RUGBY CANADA
TYLER ARDRON NUMBER 8 RUGBY CANADA
JESSICA DOVANNE WINGER RUGBY CANADA
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PRESENTED BY
COMMUNITY
Gareth Rees Inducted into Canada’s Sports Hall of Fame
SUPPORT ON AND OFF THE PITCH
HALL OF FAMER Rees addressed a sold out crowd about his rugby career and the people he played with.
BY DOUG CROSSE IN TORONTO PHOTOS BY CANADA’S SPORTS HALL OF FAME THEY CAME TO HONOUR HIM. AND TO ROAST HIM. Canadian rugby great Gareth Rees was feted by more than fifty people on October 22nd at the Irish Embassy Pub in Toronto, ahead of his induction into the Canadian Sports Hall of Fame the following evening. Nearly a dozen of Rees’ former teammates made the trip from the west coast, Newfoundland and around Ontario to be on hand for an informal toast to his lifetime of achievement. Rees, the current manager of the Canadian team, enjoyed the bon mots from his mates, and had more than a few back over the course of the evening. Emceed by former Canadian International Tom Woods, a number of big names from rugby’s history and glory days of the 1990’s came forward to regale the crowd about their special or humorous moments with Rees. Al Charron, while handing out a few barbs, also got emotional in talking about his time with Gareth on and off the pitch. “He was a teammate that you wanted out on the field, because you just knew things would be okay with Gareth out there,” said Charron. Bob Ross, who was frequently Rees’ understudy through his playing career, also paid hommage to Rees for his time served with the Canadian team. “It’s been an honour to watch you play. It’s been an honour to play with you,” said Ross. “This is a well deserved honour, congratulations buddy, well done.” Rees punctuated the evening with some kind and funny words back to those who had spoken before GARETH REES thanking all his former teammates and family for the support shown over the years. “I got a lot of the attention because of the points I scored but none of it would have happened without such a great bunch of players and people around me during my career,” he said. “Thanks to all of them for what they did so this honour of going into the hall is their’s too.” Rees told the Toronto Star that being the first rugby player inducted into the hall came as a surprise as there have been so many great players ahead of him. “It surprises me because of the great players that have gone before me, but it doesn’t surprise me because I know where rugby sits,” said Rees. “The thing that excites me most about this is that we can bring the game, not just Gareth Rees, to the attention of a lot more Canadians, especially with the Olympics looming.”
NONE OF IT WOULD HAVE HAPPENED WITHOUT SUCH A GREAT BUNCH OF PLAYERS AND PEOPLE AROUND ME DURING MY CAREER. THANKS TO ALL OF THEM FOR WHAT THEY DID SO THIS HONOUR OF GOING INTO THE HALL IS THEIR’S TOO.
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GARETH JOINS A STELLAR CAST OF SPORTS HEROES BEING INDUCTED INTO THE 2014 HALL. ALSO HONOURED AT THE SOLD-OUT CEREMONY AT THE FORMER MAPLE LEAF GARDENS ARE: Tim Frick Women’s Wheelchair Basketball Coach Kathy Shields Women’s Basketball Coach and player Horst Bulau Ski Jumper Pierre Harvey Cross-country Skiing Geraldine Heaney Hockey Elizabeth Manley Figure Skater Sarah Burke Freestyle Skiing
WELCOME TO THE CLUB Gareth Rees receives a blazer from Colin MacDonald, chair of Canada’s Sports Hall of Fame Board of Governors.
RUGBY CANADA Collection Mens Rugby Canada T-shirt Screen Printed front “Canada Rugby” 55% cotton, 45% polyester Colour: Red Athlete, Nanyak Dala
Ladies Script VNeck T-shirt Screen Printed front “RC” 100% cotton Colour: Black Athlete, Bianca Farella
Youth Canada Script T-shirt Screen Printed front “Canada Rugby” 55% cotton, 45% polyester Colour: Charcoal Grey
MEN’S, WOMEN’S & YOUTH LIFESTYLE APPAREL AVAILABLE AT STORE.RUGBYCANADA.CA 17
FEATURE
2014 YEAR IN REVIEW
PRESENTED BY
YEAR IN REVIEW A QUICK LOOK BACK AT WHAT WAS A FANTASTIC YEAR FOR CANADIAN RUGBY BY BRYAN KELLY JANUARY
CANADA FINISH 3RD AT LAS VEGAS 7S Canada claimed their best ever finish in World Series history as they overcame Samoa 22-19 to take third spot at the Las Vegas Sevens tournament on Sunday. After having bowed out of the Cup to New Zealand in a closely fought 7-26 semi-final, Canada recovered from 0-19 down to beat the Samoans in an epic clash. www.youtube.com/ watch?v=0ebanwJkZ64
FEBRUARY
CANADA FALL TO NEW ZEALAND IN ATLANTA SEVENS CUP FINAL
Canada’s Women’s Sevens Team will have to figure out a way to beat New Zealand if they ever hope to win a Cup Final. For the third straight international tournament, New Zealand defeated Canada in a Cup
Final, this time taking the Atlanta Sevens with a 36-0 win. It was a disappointing end to an otherwise successful tournament for the Canadians. Canada has now advanced to four straight Women’s Sevens World Series Cup Semifinals, and sits third in the current series standings with 32 points. Through two events last season, they only had 18.
MARCH
UVIC, MCMASTER CLAIM 2014 UNIVERSITY SEVENS TITLES
CANADA FINISHES THIRD AT BRAZIL SEVENS
Canada’s Women’s Sevens Team defeated England 26-0 to finish in third place at the Brazil Sevens. It was Canada’s fifth top-three finish in their last six tournaments as they gained another 16 points in the Women’s Sevens World Series standings. Canada sits in third place with 48 points. Bianca Farella finished the tournament with 8 tries, the most scored by any player at the tournament. She is now tied for second in WSWS scoring with 90 points and tied for first in tries scored with 18.
by the Player of the Tournament Cindy Nelles, defeated the University of Lethbridge 24-7 to capture their first tournament title in the Women’s competition. The fourth installment of the National University Rugby Sevens Championship, held at the home of Canadian rugby in Langford, BC, was again a successful event with 26 teams in competition over the threeday tournament.
CANADIAN WOMEN WIN 2ND STRAIGHT HONG KONG INVITATIONAL
Canada’s Women’s Sevens Team electrified a near-sold out Hong Kong Stadium on Friday night by defeating France 24-0 to capture back-to-back Hong Kong Invitational Sevens Championships. Captain Jen Kish scored first for Canada under the posts after taking a brilliant offload from Kayla Moleschi. Ashley Steacy slotted the conversion before adding her own try in the left corner. Speedster Bianca Farella burned two defenders to further Canada’s lead with another try before Hanna Darling, who was playing in her first tournament for Canada, iced the victory with a tally of her own.
On Sunday, March 9 the Uvic Vikes wrapped up the 2014 National University Rugby Sevens Championships at Westhills Stadium with an emphatic 24-19 victory over UBC. The win over their provincial rivals saw the hometown Vikes capture back-to-back titles and their third championship in four years. Earlier in the day, McMaster, lead
MEN FALL JUST SHORT IN HONG KONG
Canada’s Men endured a tough final day at the Hong Kong Sevens as back-to-back defeats saw the team ultimately bow out at the Plate semifinal stage on Sunday. A last second try from Australia broke Canadian hearts in their first match, the Cup quarter-final, as a 1214 defeat saw the team drop into the Plate competition where Wales were too hot to handle for a Canada squad that was struggling with illness. 18
2014 YEAR IN REVIEW
Station Creek and another rare chance for guests to play at the exclusive Redtail Golf Course in Port Stanley. These tournaments appeal to those that are supporters of rugby as well as those that just want to enjoy a fun day out on the course. All three events combined brought in over $145,000 gross to support our teams.
JULY APRIL
RUGBY CANADA ANNUAL AWARDS DINNER
On Friday April 11 at the Royal BC Museum in downtown Victoria, members of the Canadian rugby community gathered to celebrate the best of Canadian rugby. The second annual Awards Dinner coincided with Rugby Canada’s 2013 Fiscal Annual General Meeting, happening at the Westin Bear Mountain Hotel in Langford, British Columbia. Due to its convenient timing, Provincial Union delegates and Board Members from across the country had the opportunity to mix-and-mingle with members of Canada’s Men’s and Women’s Rugby programs.
ONTARIO BLUES U-19 TEAM CLAIM 2014 UNDER-19 NATIONAL TITLE
they’re receiving from the World Rugby. They’ve both been a huge reason we had success this year,” said Geraint John, then Head Coach from London. “John (Moonlight) has grown into a natural leader and is one of the strongest men on the series and Phil (Mack) performed exceptionally well all season and had a hat trick today in the Bowl Final. I’m proud of them!”
The Ontario Blues Under-19 men’s provincial rugby program was undefeated at the U19 Canadian Rugby Championship to capture the title in St. John’s, N.L. July 16-20. The U19 Blues’ blemish-free championship was won in dominant fashion, with Ontario finishing the round-robin style tournament with a perfect 4-0 record over their provincial opponents.
www.youtube.com/ watch?v=Ia0p7RxTprU
JUNE
FUNDRAISERS AND GOLF TOURNAMENTS:
ONTARIO CAPTURES 2014 NATIONAL WOMEN’S LEAGUE TITLE
RUGBY CANADA - NWL LOGO FOR PRINT USE ONLY
Rugby Canada hosted several fundraising events to support our National Team athletes in 2014. MAY A fundraising dinner was held in the historic Distillery District with both Canada and Scotland Senior Men’s Teams in attendance. The evening, hosted by television sport and Olympic broadcaster Canadian Rugby took a big step Brian Williams, saw a capacity forward this year through John crowd of 350 enjoy the evening Moonlight and Phil Mack, which featured a Q & A session who were both selected to with members from both teams, the World Rugby Sevens a live and silent auction and a Dream Team for the presentation to outgoing Men’s 2013/2014 season. Sevens Coach, Geraint John. Mack and Over $80,000 gross was raised Moonlight are from this event. two players that Several golf tournaments embody the spirit were held throughout the of Canadian rugby summer in both Ontario and have been and BC. The Victoria Golf incredible performers Tournament run by Rugby this season on the World Canada Alumni Mark Series. Cardinal and Bobby Ross The dynamic duo along with Graeme helped Canada to their Bethel was hosted in best-ever sixth place finish July at Olympic View from the nine-stop series, Golf Course and two which included a third place finish in events were held in Las Vegas and second in Glasgow. Ontario; one at “They deserve the recognition John Moonlight
PHIL MACK AND JOHN MOONLIGHT NAMED TO WORLD RUGBY SEVENS DREAM TEAM
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FEATURE
happened. Reigning NWL champs Quebec finished in second place at the tournament following a 42-5 dismantling of the Atlantic. Quebec got a pair of tries from Erin Van Gulik along with 10 points from fly-half Jackie Titley who scored a second half try along with a penalty and conversion to pull away from the feisty Atlantic team, who at one point led the game in the first ten minutes with a try from fullback Erin Beazley. FINAL STANDINGS Ontario 4-0 Equipe Quebec 3-1 British Columbia 2-2 Prairies 1-3 Atlantic 0-4
20 pts 14 pts 10 pts 6 pts 1 pt
03-21-07
Ontario got its fourth try of the afternoon from replacement forward Misha Maric, effectively ending British Columbia’s comeback bid and cementing the 2014 National Women’s League championship title with half hour left to play. Ontario was leading 22-10 at that point, but the bonus point was a key piece of the puzzle should BC have proven a handful and won the game. One point was all the Storm needed to claim the cup, but they got that and more. It was a tight affair through the opening half hour as Storm wing Katie Svboda and BC wing Selina McGinnis traded tries to make the score 5-5. Then the insertion of second row replacement Fedlia Omaghan had the repeat effect it did in Ontario’s previous day win over the Prairies. The mobile second rower touched the ball time and again and created space releasing Sarah Guttin and Briana Cunningham for tries to take the half time score to 17-5. It was the try by Maric at the 55 minute mark that would prove to be the difference as BC’s body language showed the comprehension of what
AUGUST
CANADA WOMEN’S MAPLE LEAFS CAPTURE FISU TITLE
On Friday, August 8, Canada won the gold medal at the 2014 International University Sports Federation (FISU) Women’s Rugby Sevens Championship in Sao Jose de Campos, Brazil. The women, who finished 2-1 in pool play, did not lose a match after dropping the opening game of their tournament to France. Canada beat Belgium in the Cup Quarterfinals on Saturday, defeated Great Britain Sunday morning in the Cup Semifinals then beat the French in the Cup Final.
NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIP FESTIVAL RESULTS
U18 BOYS Excitement was high coming into the final day of National Festival with all teams playing for a title. Having both beaten Manitoba, Saskatchewan and PEI went to battle for 9th place. In a contest full of hard hits and big runs, Saskatchewan squeaked out a tight 24-20 victory. 19
FEATURE
2014 YEAR IN REVIEW
PRESENTED BY
British Columbia would continue their 2014 National Championship Festival dominance as they would win their third title of the day, this time thanks to the U16 Men. Despite an enthusiastic Team Alberta effort, the British Columbians proved to be too much to handle. Ontario would find their way onto the podium by just barely beating British Columbia’s seconds team. Determined tackling kept both teams scores low despite hard running and smart offensive lines. In an equally close and exciting match, Nova Scotia and New Brunswick met for 7th position. The two very even teams went back and forth all game but it was ultimately Nova Scotia who would celebrate at the final whistle. The Plate Final featured two teams who had just come off very narrow victories, Ontario III having beaten Nova Scotia by a single point and Newfoundland having only won by 3. The men of Eastern Ontario played one of their best games of the tournament, comfortably dispatching of Newfoundland by a score of 34-6. A highly passionate Alberta side came into their game looking for a win in front of the home crowd but Ontario II had other plans. Both teams came out firing on all cylinders but it was Ontario II who would cross the whitewash most. Alberta, despite their energy, just could not quite find their way over the goal-line. In one of the most anticipated games of the day, British Columbia and Quebec would battle it out in the Calgary sunshine. Despite it being an excellent match played by both sides, it was British Columbia who would reign supreme. Following the footsteps of the U18 Women and U16 Men before them, the U18 Men rose to the event and came out flying. Quebec tackling was formidable but couldn’t stop the widespread and fast paced British Columbia offence. U18 Women Saskatchewan 29 - 8 Nova Scotia (Bowl Final) Alberta 29 - 10 Quebec (3rd Place Game) British Columbia 10 - 7 Ontario (Cup Final) Saskatchewan’s U18 Women were the first team of the division to claim a title when they dispatched of Nova 20
Scotia. Despite a tenacious effort by Nova Scotia, they just couldn’t stop the powerful rolling Saskatchewan offense. In front of a wild home crowd Alberta went to work and got the result they were looking for. Much to the delite of fans and parents Alberta played fast, exciting rugby that pushed Quebec from one side of the field to the other. Much like the games that preceded it, the U18 Women’s Cup Final was fast-paced and intense. Ferocious tackling by both sides kept the score low and the suspense high. Both teams had an excellent tournament, but ultimately it was British Columbia once again who would leave as champions. U16 Men Ontario 17 - 12 BCII (Bronze Medal Game) British Columbia 26 - 0 Alberta (Cup Final) Newfoundland 31 - 24 New Brunswick (7th Place Game) Quebec 17 - 10 Ontario II (Bowl Final)
U16 Women Ontario 31 - 7 British Columbia The U16 Women’s division was entirely round-robin because there were only three teams participating. Ontario narrowly edged out British Columbia earlier in the week by a score of 19-5, which would give BC the opportunity to be champions should they win with a bonus point. In what was a beautiful game of rugby, Ontario found a Magali Harvey way translate their efforts into points and win the designation as Canada’s best U16 Women’s team. Canada’s Women’s Under-20 team sealed the 2014 Can-Am Championship on Saturday, August 23 with a 43-6 win over their southern rivals, the United States. The game was played at Norm Perry Park in Sarnia in front of an enthusiastic crowd of rugby fans. Canada won the opening
game of the two-game series 51-5 on Wednesday at the London St. Georges Rugby Club in London, Ontario.
CANADA WOMEN WIN SILVER AT U-18 YOUTH OLYMPIC GAMES
On Wednesday, August 20th Canada’s Women’s Sevens Youth Olympic Team won the silver medal at the 2014 Youth Olympic Games after a 3810 loss to Australia in the Gold Medal match Tuesday in Nanjing, China. It was the second silver medal for a Canadian women’s rugby team in less than three days, after Canada finished runners-up at the 2014 Women’s Rugby World Cup on Sunday.
CANADA WOMENS TEAM FINISH SECOND AT THE RUGBY WORLD CUP
The Canadian Women, on the strength of an 80 metre Magali Harvey try book a first ever trip to the World Cup Finals. In a hard fought championship game England prevail 22-8.
SEPTEMBER
BC RUGBY TURNS 125
The BC Rugby Union held a gala dinner on Saturday, September 13, celebrating its storied 125-year past. The event brought together members of the rugby community
OH CANADA!
2014 YEAR IN REVIEW
in BC, including past and current players, referees and administrators and helped raise thousands of dollars for rugby development initiatives across the province.
SHERRY TRUMBULL AT THE WRWC
While most people’s attention was on Canada’s Women’s Team and their magnificent result at the 2014 Women’s Rugby World Cup, another Canadian was shining on the world stage: referee Sherry Trumbull. Based on her solid performances throughout the tournament, Trumbull was selected to referee the 3rd place game between France and Ireland. “I am extremely proud to have refereed the 3 v 4 game in France, and it was one of the most exciting games of the tournament. The 2014 WRWC was a focus of mine for 4 years since attending the 2010 WC in England. Every training session, game I refereed and every sacrifice I have made, has been for that tournament,” said Trumbull.
ONTARIO BLUES CAPTURE FOURTH CONSECUTIVE MACTIER CUP TITLE Four years, four national championships. The Ontario Blues continued their prolific run in the Canadian Rugby Championship on Saturday, September 27, using a 45-5 victory over the Atlantic Rock in St. John’s, N.L. to clinch their fourth straight MacTier Cup. The Ontario Blues and Prairie Wolf Pack both finished the six-
game season with a 5-1 record, but an extra bonus point gave the Blues a 24-23 point advantage over the Wolf Pack. In third place the BC Bears finished the year with a 2-4 record, while the Atlantic Rock failed to record a win. The Canadian Rugby Championship, along with the Americas Rugby Championship, is a part of Rugby Canada’s High Performance Pathway to the National Team.
OCTOBER
AMERICAS RUGBY CHAMPIONSHIP
The Americas Rugby Championship is held in Langford, British Columbia for a third straight year. Canada is competitive but comes away with a 1-2 record as Argentina registered its 5th ARC title.
TRY 4 GOLD TALENT IDENTIFICATION CAMPS
Canada’s search for up-and-coming talented athletes continued this fall, with TRY 4 GOLD Talent Identification camps taking place in Quebec, Ontario, Alberta and British Columbia between October and December. Canada’s Women’s Sevens Assistant Coach, Sandro Fiorino spearheaded the campaign, which saw close to 1,000 boys and girls take part. All athletes were put through drills, 10 and 40 metre sprints, triple broad jump and had their height and weight measured. From the data collected at each event, a provincial database was formed and will be distributed to provincial club coaches.
NOVEMBER
U18S DO WELL ON ROMANIA TOUR
Canada’s Men’s Under-18 Team took part in a three-game tour to Romania in November, finishing with a 1-2 record. Following an incredibly difficult travel schedule, the first game saw Canada fall 31-0 to a physical
Under-19 national team. However, the team would rally for their second game when they defeated the Romania Under-18 outfit three days later by a score of 16-15. Team Captain, George Barton from Duncan, BC scored the gamewinning try late in the game. In the third and final contest against the U-19 team they played earlier, Coach Jim Delaney’s team put forth a huge defensive effort but fell short 9-3. The match was played in difficult conditions and would end up being a defensive struggle. St. George’s fly half, Ben Scher, would score the only points, a penalty in the first half, for Canada.
SEAN DUKE AND JASON MARSHALL SELECTED FOR LEGENDARY BARBARIANS RFC
On Monday, November 3rd, Canada’s Jason Marshall and Sean Duke were selected for the Barbarians RFC for their game against Leicester Tigers the following day. The Barbarians are the world’s preeminent invitational side that date back to 1890. They have featured international players from countries across the UK, France, New Zealand, Australia, Argentina and Fiji. Canada has also contributed many players, including former Captains Al Charron and Gareth Rees. “This was a great opportunity for Sean and Jason to play alongside some of the world’s best players and join the world’s most famous club,” said Rees, Canada’s Men’s Program Manager.
DECEMBER
PHIL MACK HITS 50 SEVENS TOURNAMENTS FOR CANADA
Victoria’s Phil Mack hit a milestone this season, having competed in his 50th all-time Sevens Tournament in London in April. Mack, who made his debut in Hong Kong in 2006, is Canada’s all-time points scoring leader with 920 World Series points, good for 15th on the all-time list. Along with his 46 appearances on the Series,
FEATURE
Mack has competed for Canada in two Rugby World Cup Sevens events, the 2010 Commonwealth Games in India, the 2011 PANAM Games in Guadalajara and NACRA tournaments. www.youtube.com/watch?v=nnCk05V1n p8&list=UU8vCC27WUNjUasLxP_n09vA
CONOR TRAINOR WINS 2013-14 WORLD RUGBY SEVENS TRY OF THE YEAR
Canada’s Conor Trainor won the World Rugby Sevens Try of the Year from his exceptionally skilled tally during the Glasgow Sevens Day One on May 3. Trainor took a pass at full pace from teammate Harry Jones off his right book and kicked it up to his hands before beating three French defenders. Trainor’s tally - which was voted the top score the Glasgow leg of the Series - was in the running against the other eight series’ best.
SEAN DUKE BECOMES CANADA’S SEVENS ALL-TIME TRY SCORING LEADER On Saturday, December 4 in Dubai, Vancouver’s Sean Duke scored two tries against Japan in the Shield SemiFinal to pass Dave Moonlight as Canada’s Men’s Sevens Team’s all-time try-scoring leader with 109 then tries in his HSBC World Sevens Series Career. Duke has been a wonderful servant to Canadian rugby over the years, with his finest personal World Sevens Series season coming in 2012/13 when he ended up third on the try-scoring chart with an outstanding 35 scores. His lethal finishing when given a sniff of the try-line makes him a feared player for opposition and equally as important to Canada, who finished last year’s Series in a recordbest 6th place.
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NATIONAL SENIOR WOMENS
PRESENTED BY
REMEMBERANCE The Canadian women represented well at Vimy Ridge as part of a day off during the Women’s World Cup in August.
LEST WE FORGET The Senior Women’s National Team visit Vimy Ridge BY BRYAN KELLY PHOTOS BY BRYAN KELLY
C
anada’s Women’s Rugby Team spent an afternoon at the historic Vimy Ridge National Site of Canada, five days before the 100th Year Anniversary of the commencement of the First World War. The trip to the monument and war trenches took place one day after Canada defeated Spain 31-5 to open the 2014 World Rugby Women’s Rugby World Cup in Marcoussis, France. Vimy Ridge is a major source of pride for all Canadians, as 100 years ago thousands of young men gave their lives to help secure a great victory for the Allies. At that time, Canada was a relatively young nation, and the victory proved to unite the country under strength, honour and integrity. “Every time you wear a jersey for Canada, or see the Canadian flag, you have to remember how truly lucky we are and this place is a great source of pride,” said Canada Forwards Coach, Gary Dukelow. 22
“My grandfather was also here, so for me it’s an even bigger significance and I was fortunate to be here with Canada’s Men’s Team during the 1991 World Cup, and we had a great tournament that year too,” added Dukelow. The Canadian team, along with travelling family members, took to the trenches and toured both the Canadian and German occupied areas before visitng the monument and Canadian cemetery. Manitoba native Mandy Marchak – who’s playing in her third Women’s Fifteens World Cup – added her thoughts on visiting the historic site. “We’re really lucky and fortunate to come to Vimy Ridge today with it being such a big piece of Canadian history. We got to see the underground tunnels, the trenches where they fought and it wouldn’t have been possible without the generosity and support of the Canadian Rugby Foundation, so we’re appreciative of them,” said Marchak.
INFORMATION ON VIMY RIDGE “At daybreak on April 9, 1917, all four divisions of the Canadian Corps (aided by the British 5th Division and a considerable number of artillery units), fighting together for the first time, stormed the Ridge. Preceded by a perfectly-timed artillery barrage, the Canadians advanced and, by mid-afternoon, had taken all their objectives except Hill 145 which was captured the following day. Then on April 12, the 4th Canadian Division with the British 24th Division on their left flank, took the Pimple at the northern end of the Ridge. The hard-fought victory was swift, but did not come without cost. Out of 10,602 casualties, 3,598 Canadians gave their lives. The victory at Vimy was a significant landmark for Allied fortunes in the First World War and back home in Canada, it united Canadians and brought honour and pride to the young nation.” Canada’s visit to Vimy Ridge would not have been possible without the support of the Canadian Rugby Foundation. (Information via official on-site pamphlet, created by Veteran Affairs Canada)
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CAPILANO RUGBY CLUB
RUGBY
CLUB PROFILE
THE CAPILANO COVERED GRANDSTAND IS UNIQUE AMONG MAINLAIND CLUBS.
THE ICONIC CAPILANO CREST IN ALL ITS WOODEN SPLENDOUR, GREETS VISITORS TO THE GROUNDS.
IT’S NOT JUST BEARS GAMES THAT SELL OUT THE GRANDSTAND, AS THE CAPS HAVE A HUGE FAN BASE.
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THE BC BEARS HAVE BEEN CALLING CAPILANO HOME BASE ON THE LOWER MAINLAND FOR BIG GAMES.
“RARE” RAIN STORMS DURING THE SEASON SAW THE PROVISION OF THE COVERED GRAND STAND TO MAKE LIFE EASIER ON THE FANS.
CAPILANO RUGBY CLUB
BUILT TO LAST
RUGBY
CLUB PROFILE
CAPILANO RUGBY CLUB IS MORE THAN JUST A CLUBHOUSE. IT’S A RUGBY GEM. BY MARK JANZEN PHOTOS BY JAN CHRISTEN SORENSEN AT THE NORTHERN FOOT OF VANCOUVER’S LIONS GATE BRIDGE sits a gorgeous little park and a clubhouse that has been built to last. Meet Klahanie Park and the Capilano Rugby Football Club. And meet one of B.C.’s rugby-playing gems. It’s a storied club that has been around since 1969 with the amalgamation of the North Shore All-Blacks and the West Vancouver Barbarians. But there was a time when its story and, more specifically, its clubhouse was entirely in limbo. A time when its rugby community stepped up to show what the Capilano RFC was really all about. The club and its somewhat unfinished clubhouse had resided at Klahanie Park for more than 25 years, but in 1996 a letter arrived from the city of West Vancouver. In short, if the club wanted to stay put and continue to lease Klahanie Park, the code clubhouse would have to be upgraded to the current building codes – certainly a costly and large amount to be sure. After negotiating for 11 years, in the 2007, Capilano signed a 25-year lease, which is renewable for 25 more years. The catch with the lease, however, was that the necessary upgrades would cost north of $1 million. A full-fledged capital campaign began.
Capilano has long been one of B.C.’s top rugby clubs at a variety of levels and, over the years, has put many players on provincial and national sides. Most recently, club members Hilary Leith, Andrea Burk and Mandy Marchak were named to Canada’s national team for the 2014 World Cup while Harry Jones has become a mainstay on both the Canadian sevens and 15s teams. But this campaign wasn’t about the club’s more famous alumni and it wasn’t about a clubhouse. It was about the 400 kids who show up on Sunday mornings for mini rugby and the Snowcaps Over-40 team and all the members in between. “It was about people,” says Alan Snowden, who was the president of the club from 2002 to 2006. “The compelling reason has to be that there is a community involvement and the community has to value whatever you’re doing. The big value at Klahanie Park is that the club is dedicated to fun rugby. The most important thing is that rugby needs to be fun. And it’s all about friendship and fitness. “The magic I think, in rugby if you want to take part, you can have fun at any level.” For Capilano, that’s what it has always been about and on Thursday nights, the club is the place to be. It’s on that night when a few of the top teams practice, but more importantly, it’s a night to get together with fellow members
THE MAGIC I THINK, IN RUGBY IF YOU WANT TO TAKE PART, YOU CAN HAVE FUN AT ANY LEVEL. ALAN SNOWDEN
and have a meal and a pint. “It’s a great home away from home for a lot of people and we have a big family,” says Ken Robinson, the current club president. It’s that very nature of the club and its “fun” atmosphere that was the main reason the club was able to raise the funds to stay at Klahanie Park. “It’s an awesome club and I’m not just saying that because I’m from there,” says Jones. “It’s a good club atmosphere. Just being a part of it is great and I always love going back. It’s a very close-knit club. It doesn’t really matter how old you are, everyone’s having fun there.” On those Thursday nights, it’s not only one big family that gathers, but it’s one big local family. The club is staunchly dedicated to growing local talent while still maintaining its status amongst the top clubs in Canada. “We’re trying to develop the best local talent that we can, right from the grassroots and our minis program, which is amongst the largest in North America,” Robinson says. “We’re very proud of that actually.” Ultimately, it’s those efforts that was the reason why Capilano is still at Klahanie Park. It’s why the club, after raising more than $1 million, now has a fine-looking clubhouse and continually, at all levels, impresses. Just over the bridge from downtown, it’s a club that’s built to last.
OFFICIAL SPONSOR OF RUGBY CANADA World Rugby Women’s Sevens Series, Fourth Round: April 18-19 2015 Westhills Stadium Fly Helijet to the match and get a 15% discount* to support your team in person. *Discount code SEVENS15, only eligible with Women’s Sevens ticket on select flights April 17-20, 2015.
helijet.com | 1.800.665.4354 25
WOMEN’S SEVENS
2014 YEAR IN REVIEW
CLOSING THE GAP 3 Women’s Sevens team finished 3rd place in World Rugby Sevens Rankings
BY MARK SHELDON FROM VICTORIA PHOTOS BY IAN MUIR
GOT’CHA Elissa Alarie steps out of a potential tackle at the Dubai Sevens.
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THE 2014 IRB SEVENS YEAR-ENDING RANKING FOR THE CANADA SEVENS TEAM
THE TOP-THREE TEAMS WERE UNCHANGED FROM A YEAR AGO AS NEW ZEALAND RETAINED THEIR TITLE WHILE AUSTRALIA FINISHED SECOND AND CANADA IN THIRD.
WOMEN’S SEVENS
PRESENTED BY
A
fter another successful season with the World Rugby Women’s Sevens World Series, Canada’s Women’s Sevens Team has established themselves as one of the world’s top teams. Now they will spend the next six months trying to figure out how to become the best. For the second straight season, Canada finished third in the WSWS standings. In fact, the top-three teams were unchanged from a year ago as New Zealand retained their title while Australia finished second. Despite not winning a Cup title, it was a very rewarding season for the Canadians as they made the Cup Semifinals in every event, never finishing worse than fourth-place. Head coach John Tait says this past season was always going to be a rehearsal for next year, when Olympic qualification begins. The teams who finish one-four in the final rankings of the 2014-15 WSWS will qualify automatically for the 2016 Olympic Games. Reflecting on the season that was, Tait is most pleased with the team’s performances in USA and Brazil, the second and third rounds of the season which came just five days apart in mid-February. In Atlanta, Canada beat Australia twice before losing to New Zealand in the Cup Final. In Sao Paulo, Canada was up 10 points on the Black Ferns with 20 seconds left in their Cup Semifinal, yet lost 21-17 after giving up two very late tries.
FINDING A BALANCE While the head coach was disappointed to have not won a series event, he believes the third place finish in the WSWS standings is reflective of where his team stands on the international stage. “We are confident that we are closing the gap on New Zealand and
have been on par with Australia in our games against them this season,” said Tait. “Most importantly, we have grown our understanding of what it will take technically, tactically and physically to beat both of them in the seasons ahead.” Team captain Jen Kish spoke about a successful balance between results and development. “We had a very consistent season with some new faces involved each tournament,” said Kish. “It was great to see some of our developing players make tours and experience what it was like to play on the Women’s Sevens IRB circuit. Even though we did not win a tournament, we have made massive growths within our program and I am very excited for next season.” Part of that growth was an influx of youth. Emily Belchos, Nikki Case, Hannah Darling, Paige Farries and Sara Kaljuvee were plucked from the U-20 program and gained valuable experience heading forward. Tait said it was necessary to see his best young players compete at a WSWS event to gauge their talent level and identify where they need to grow as players. “A few of them have shown that they are not only ready to compete at this level but will push some of our senior players for selection in the year ahead,” said Tait. With the success of Rugby Canada’s Centralization Program, it is likely more players will make their senior debut over the next calendar year. “There is always the possibility of one or two new players debuting at the series next year,” said Tait. “We have some promising development players coming through who already have the physical traits needed and whether or not they factor in future selections will be determined by how quickly their core skills continue to develop in these next 12 months.”
LEADER OF THE PACK While much of the credit for this season’s success went to the players, Tait and his coaching staff deserve high praise for how prepared the team looked at each event. Tait is the type of person who comes up with a plan first then works backwards. He spent much of the season refining training methods and travel protocols to ensure his team peaked and had success come tournament time. Kish says the coaches always go above and beyond to make sure the team is taken care of, something they are lucky to have. “John (Tait) in particular has been the glue to this team and I really enjoy having him as our head coach,” said Kish. “His honesty and commitment to us is what I admire most about him. I think John deserves more credit than he chooses to accept. If you try to give him credit for our success, good luck, because John will always point it back in the direction of his athletes. That’s just
THINGS DON’T GET EASIER, WE GET TOUGHER.
the kind of guy he is.” “Things don’t get easier, we get tougher” In order to take that next step to best in the world, Canada will have to keep pushing every edge they can in the program. The team’s motto is: “Things don’t get easier, we get tougher”. “The athletes will have a good block of time now that the season is finished, dedicated to improving their individual physical needs,” said Tait. “Generally we need them all to be bigger, stronger and faster by the start of next series.” Good thing for Tait, his players are on the same page. “We understand that doing just enough in our daily training environment is not enough,” said Kish. “The extras that individuals do on and off the field has been the key to our success. The little things really do count.” When you invest that much time into training, Kish says there is an expectation to see results. “At the end of the day, we do this to win.” Canada’s Women’s Sevens Team is proudly sponsored by Sport Canada and Own the Podium.
SECOND GEAR Mandy Marchak pulls away from a French defender in Dubai.
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ADVERTORIAL
LOOKING SHARP CANADA’S MEN’S SEVENS CUT IMPRESSIVE FIGURES OFF THE PITCH THANKS TO HONG KONG CLOTHIER BY DOUG CROSSE
H
ong Kong is known for many unique things and near the top of the list is its penchant for fine tailoring. Hundreds of top clothiers make the nooks and crannies of this amazing city home, making bespoke clothing for the thousands of business people who work in the financial and banking trades. Among the leaders in this area is Maxwell’s Clothiers. A small shop that opened in 1961 at the now demolished Ambassador Hotel in Kowloon, Ken Maxwell went on to create the famous ’24 Hour’ suit, where passengers from the many cruise lines would get measured on one day and return the next day for their suit prior to departure. It was these humble beginnings that saw word of Maxwell’s spread well beyond Hong Kong’s shores, to the well heeled business clientele from North America who began to visit regularly in the early days of the jet-age. From there Maxwell’s became one of the first companies to break into Canada with a mail-order suit business.
Andy Maxwell, Ken’s son, has taken the business to new heights in the 21st century, providing a great customer experience in Hong Kong as well as conducting crossCanada sales tours several times a year, getting their excellent suits into the hands of hundreds of Canadian business people every year. In 2014 Maxwell’s became the official clothier for formal-wear for the Canadian men’s sevens team. Ahead of another successful Hong Kong tournament staff and players were measured and outfitted with tremendous garments that the players will wear to the many engagements they attend each season. It is a relationship Andy Maxwell treasures. “We are privileged to be the official formal wear tailors for the Canadian Rugby team,” revealed Maxwell. “Canada has been an integral part of Maxwell’s Clothiers’ success for over 50 years and we are extremely proud that we now represent the Canadian team as they continue their successful journey all over the world.
WE COMBINE FUNCTIONALITY WITH STYLE. OUR SUITS ARE CONTOURED & CUSTOMIZED TO SPECIFIC REQUIREMENTS, BODY SHAPES AND SIZES – SOMETHING YOU CANNOT FIND OFF THE RACK. ANDY MAXWELL
“Building each team member’s attire has been a great experience and it is rewarding to see how fantastic they all look in their Maxwell’s suits, exuding confidence and a professional yet powerful image both on and off the field.” So why a tailored suit when there are so many ‘off the rack’ options in the world of clothing today? As Maxwell explains, it is a well tailored suit and shirts that can set a man apart from his competition, because of the confidence one feels in wearing a made to measure garment. “Maxwell’s Clothiers strives to ensure perfection in all aspects, by creating your own personalized wardrobe, be it classic, contemporary elegance or corporate casual. “We combine functionality with style. Our suits are contoured and customized to specific requirements, body shapes and sizes – something you cannot find off the rack.” Maxwell stresses that it is the craftsmanship of each suit that makes it such a special item in the wardrobe. “Each suit is cut, seamed and sewn meticulously by our artisanal tailors and each garment is a result of refined workmanship,” Maxwell says passionately. “The result is a perfectly fitted bespoke suit that exudes class, confidence and sophistication.” So the next time you see a Canadian sevens team member looking sharp at an off the field function, know that just like the athlete wearing it, many years of knowledge and skill went into the creation of the suit he is wearing. To see the schedule of when Maxwell’s Clothier will be next in a City near you in Canada, go to maxwellsclothiers.com and make an appointment.
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MAXWELL’S 2015 CANADIAN TOUR Rugby Canada Players: Conor Trainor, Lucas Hammond and Jake Webster
MEN’S SEVENS
2014 YEAR IN REVIEW
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THE 2014 IRB SEVENS YEAR-ENDING RANKING FOR THE CANADA SEVENS TEAM
ANOTHER WIN John Moonlight and the Canadian Men’s team hit new heights in 2014.
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THE CANADIANS FINISHED ABOVE KENYA, SAMOA, ARGENTINA, FRANCE, WALES, SCOTLAND, USA AND PORTUGAL, WITH ONLY THE HIGHFLYING AUSTRALIANS, ENGLISH, FIJIANS, SOUTH AFRICANS AND NEW ZEALANDERS AHEAD OF THEM.
PRESENTED BY
MEN’S SEVENS
Best Year Ever.
Men’s Sevens team finished 6th place in World Rugby Sevens Rankings
BY BRYAN KELLY FROM VICTORIA PHOTOS BY JOSÉ LAGMAN
C
anada’s Men’s Sevens Team enjoyed its greatest year to date in 2014 as they ended the World Rugby Series in sixth place following the nine events. While it was a disappointing opening to the campaign at the tail end of 2013 as just fourteen points were claimed in Australia, Dubai and South Africa, a new year brought fresh hope for the team as a great performance in Las Vegas proved to be the catalyst for a climb up the overall standings. That third-place finish in the USA will live long in the memory as the closest Series tournament to home brought real exposure to Geraint John’s men, which seemed to give them a boost as victories came against Kenya, Wales, France and Samoa. Who can forget Phil Mack’s score, conversion and then winning drop-goal against the islanders, which sparked scenes of jubilation both on and off the field. Regular Cup outings from that point were the objective and the
squad did not disappoint as stalwarts such as John Moonlight, Nanyak Dala, Mack and others helped Canada to Plate finals, semi-finals and, of course, that Cup final in Scotland. Speaking of which, topping their pool at Scotstoun - above England, France and Japan - meant they would meet Kenya in the quarter-finals before Canada beat the hosts 10-7 in the semi-final. New Zealand were simply too good in the final but that result wouldn’t overshadow a special two days. Making the final in Glasgow was by no means a fluke. In fact it was the culmination of reaching four successive Cup competitions - in USA, New Zealand, Japan and Hong Kong - before they moved on to a new level in that penultimate Series event. Unfortunately the final tournament of the season at Twickenham would see Canada’s impressive run of Cup outings brought to a halt as Kenya would pip them on points difference in the pool, which meant they would move into the Bowl. Unperturbed by this,
WINNERS Canada won the Bowl in South Africa in December, its highest finish of the 2014/15 World Rugby Sevens season.
Day 2 saw the squad bring their A game as wins over Japan, Wales and Argentina saw them claim the silverware to seal sixth spot in the 2013/14 Series. It truly was a watershed year for the Canadians as they finished above Kenya, Samoa, Argentina, France, Wales, Scotland, USA and Portugal, with only the high-flying Australians, English, Fijians, South Africans and
IT TRULY WAS A WATERSHED YEAR FOR THE CANADIANS
New Zealanders ahead of them. Of course the lasting images come from Las Vegas and Glasgow, but the bigger picture - something that has been evident in 2014/15 is that youngsters such as Justin Douglas and Lucas Hammond have grown because of those experiences as they look to be the next stars for Canada on the World Series. Let us now hope for a successful 2015 that creates many more moments of magic for players and fans alike.
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TRAVEL ADVENTURES
PRISTINE, UNTOUCHED AND THE BEST FISHING PERIOD.
30 YEARS OF GREAT FISHING ADVENTURES BY DOUG CROSSE
PHOTOS BY JUDY TEASDALE, ROBERT KWONG AND ROBERT LEON
LANGARA FISHING LODGE has become a well-known part of the rugby landscape since its inception in 1985, thanks to the efforts and enthusiasm of its owner, Rick Bourne, a former Rugby Canada Chairman and one of the mainstays of the UBC Old Boys Ravens club. Over the years, Langara’s world famous salmon fishing and whale watching have drawn the likes of Sir Graham Henry, Andy Haden, and a myriad of other big rugby names to this idyllic lodge in Northern BC’s remote Haida Gwaii islands. “My wife and I enjoy fishing back home in New Zealand, but coming to Langara was a very unique experience for us. The fishing and the wildlife was spectacular, and the amazing hospitality of the staff made this one of life’s great adventures,” said Henry of his visit. Langara has also been a major source of funding for Canadian rugby, through the many fishing trips that have been made available for fundraising auctions and events across the country. Congratulations to Rick Bourne and everyone at Langara Fishing Lodge for 30 great years!
SOME BIG CATCHES AT LANGARA. 32
WALES TEAM MANAGER ALAN PHILLIPS (4TH FROM LEFT) IS AMONG MANY BIG RUGBY NAMES TO VISIT LANGARA.
CHARTER HELICOPTER SERVICE PROVIDED BY HELIJET
AN AVID FISHERMAN, GRAHAM HENRY WAS ALL BUSINESS WHEN HE WAS ON THE WATER.
FORMER ALL BLACKS COACH, SIR GRAHAM HENRY ENJOYING THE HOSPITALITY OF THE LODGE.
ANOTHER GORGEOUS SUNSET OVER THE PACIFIC.
COMMUNITY
She was the Rock DR. BENVON (CRAMER) PARFREY of St. John’s, who received the prestigious Chairman’s Award from Rugby Canada three months ago, passed away Friday of breast cancer. She was 64. The Chairman’s Award is given to a volunteer recipient who, as a result of many years of contribution to the growth of the game, has made a significant difference to the ideals and objectives of Rugby Canada in grass-roots player support. This award is unique as it is not necessarily given annually, and is only given to the highest quality of support and contribution. Newfoundland Rugby Union (NRU) president John Cowan said, “As long as I have been part of rugby, there is no way to truly measure Benvon’s contribution to the sport and to the community in general.” Newfoundland’s greatest rugby player, Rod Snow, said he’s known
Mrs. Parfrey since he picked up the game in 1986. “I have so much respect for her,” said Snow. “We have a lot of big, boisterous personalities in rugby who also have influence on the game. But she managed to have influence without that sort of personality. She had the big, bright mind. She was very supportive of everything we did, but she didn’t make the same noise as some of the other characters in the game,” Snow pointed out. She was considered matriarch of the first family of Canadian rugby that saw her husband Pat, an Order of Canada recipient, serve as Rugby Canada’s national team coach and union president as well as Newfoundland’s director of coaching. Sons Kevin and Patrick have been capped for Canada. They, along with brothers Brendan and Owen, play or have played for The Rock.
Carl Allwood
DR. BENVON PARFREY WAS THE FOUNDATION OF RUGBY IN NEWFOUNDLAND AND LABRADOR
In this Sept. 28, 2014 file photo, Dr. Benvon (Cramer) Parfrey (second from left) accepts the Rugby Canada’s Chairman’s Award from CEO Graham Brown (far left), Newfoundland and Canadian rugby great Rod Snow (second from right), and former national team captain Al Charron (far right).
Together
Making our communities safer places to live
The best way to build strong communities is to safeguard the health of their members. Through initiatives like our All Aboard for Safety Program, CN is committed to working with community leaders and safety-related organizations to help prevent injuries and promote safe lifestyles for everyone.
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AMERICAS RUGBY CHAMPIONSHIP
2014 YEAR IN REVIEW
PRESENTED BY
ARC Tournament continues to Impress at Langford
BY MARK JANZEN FROM VANCOUVER PHOTOS BY LORNE COLLICUTT
On the tournament’s final day and with Canada playing Argentina in its last match of the week, RUGBYca writer Mark Janzen traversed the Strait of Georgia from Vancouver to Langford and made it a day, taking in every sight, sound and scrum. 4:34 p.m. – Kickoff. Canada has been in a tough spell lately on the senior men’s side. Coach Kieren Crowley has made it clear this is a legitimate proving ground for the November tour. That’s what makes this event so fun. 4:37 p.m. – Gordon McRorie slots a penalty to give Canada an early 3-0 lead in third minute. Unfortunately for the home side, that would be its first and last lead of the contest. 4:41 p.m. – Against the run of play, Argentina scores its first try of the night to go up 7-3. 4:51 p.m. – Canada’s Nanyak Dala makes the hit of the night, thumping Argentina’s Facundo Barrea with trucklike force and popping the ball loose. Check mark to Dala. 5:16 p.m. – At halftime, Canada trails 13-9. There are bright moments, but not enough finish. Where have we heard that before? 5:43 p.m. – Things get feisty in the second half. The crowd doesn’t like it one bit, but Canada finds itself with two men in the sin bin. Argentina capitalizes to take control of the contest, up 25-9.
ON THE LEFT Sean Ferguson avoids a USA tackler
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ucked just over 15 kilometres west of the buskerfilled and tourist crawling Victoria city centre, Langford is home to the Canadian Rugby Centre of Excellence at Westhills Stadium. If you’re reading this, chances are you’ve either been to, played on or can’t wait to venture out to the quaint pitch with the mountainous foreground and the forested background. It’s the place where Canadian rugby has taken some of its most valuable strides and, fittingly, it’s also been the home to the Americas Rugby Championship for the past three years. This past October, Canada hosted the 2014 rendition of the ARC and, while the masses often miss out on the highlycompetitive tournament due to its “second rate” nature – the event is largely geared towards player development and much of each country’s elite talent is absent – for those who made their way to Westhills Stadium, it was a week-long treat that surely entertained. 1:58 p.m. – I stroll into Westhills Stadium with 30 minutes to spare before the USA takes on Uruguay in the second to last game of the tournament. Here there are less multi-coloured blankets and far fewer knapsacks. 4:14 p.m. – The Eagles find their finish in the second half and win 30-5. The star of the American show from this keyboard’s perspective is youngster Ben Pinkelman, who was playing in his first international tournament at the senior level. 34
AMERICAS RUGBY CHAMPIONSHIP RESULTS OCTOBER 11 USA 14 Argentina 41
1
Canada 20 Uruguay 6 OCTOBER 15 Argentina 31 Uruguay 9 Canada USA
3 16
OCTOBER 19 Uruguay 5 USA 30 Argentina 39 Canada 9
2 3 4
6:13 p.m. – The final whistle blows. Argentina wins 39-9. The last in-game chance for Canadian players to impress Crowley is finished. McRorie scores all of Canada’s points with three penalties. 6:45 p.m. – As the crowd leaves, Crowley is certainly less than thrilled with the contest. “Our results weren’t what we would have liked. A couple of balls got turned over and bounced their way and they were good enough to capitalize on it. And when it happened to us, we weren’t good enough to take advantage.” Canada’s quest to join the foray of elite rugby countries may still have plenty of obstacles yet to navigate, but in Langford, the country’s depth is developing. And on a sunny Sunday, there are few better parks in which to watch the men of tomorrow up close and personal.
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PROFILES
LEGAL DREAM TEAM
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HILE THE SPORT OF RUGBY, BY ITS VERY NATURE, TAKES PLACE WITHIN THE CONFINES OF A PITCH, SOME ASPECTS REQUIRE LEGAL ATTENTION ONCE YOU START GETTING TO THE NATIONAL AND INTERNATIONAL LEVELS OF THE GAME. FOR THIS, RUGBY CANADA HAS ASSEMBLED A LEGAL DREAM TEAM THAT HELPS IN ALL AREAS OF RUGBY FROM A LEGAL PERSPECTIVE. WHETHER IT IS GETTING THE STATUS OF A NEW COACH SORTED FROM AN IMMIGRATION PERSPECTIVE, TO PLAYERS DEALING WITH TRIBUNALS FOR ON FIELD INCIDENTS, TO THE COMMERCIAL ASPECTS OF SPONSORSHIP AGREEMENTS, THERE IS A LOT ABOUT RUGBY THAT FALLS UNDER THE PURVIEW OF BARRISTERS AND SOLICITORS. HERE IS A LOOK AT SOME OF THE GREAT LEGAL MINDS PROVIDING THESE GREAT SERVICES IN CANADA.
HUGH CHRISTIE
Partner - Gowling Lafleur Henderson LLP AREA OF LEGAL EXPERTISE
Hugh Christie is a Partner in Gowlings’ Toronto office, past national leader of the Employment and Labour Law Practice Group, and currently the Toronto leader of that group.
ROLE WITH RUGBY CANADA
Hugh is the Certified Match Commissioner for the World Rugby Board, hearing appeals from disciplinary decisions in international rugby matches. Hugh provides expert legal advice in the areas of employment and labour law and advises senior management on various legal engagements.
BIOGRAPHY
Hugh provides commercial and public sector clients with advice on employment law. His areas of specialization include the design, interpretation and application of employment policies; compensation packages, including option and incentive plans; and disciplinary issues. Hugh deals with employment issues arising out of restructuring of the workplace as a result of corporate transactions and trans-border employment issues. He also advises on terminations and postemployment obligations.
GRAEME MEW
Judge - Superior Court of Justice AREA OF LEGAL EXPERTISE
The Honourable Mr. Justice Graeme Mew has a wide range of expertise in areas such as; International Commercial Arbitration, Insurance and Reinsurance, Conflict of Laws, Professional Liability, Directors’ and Officers Liability, Product Liability, Class Actions and Sports Disputes.
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The Honourable Graeme Mew was the Honorary Legal Adviser for the period of 1996-2013, Judicial Officer, Rugby Canada Member, World Rugby Anti-Doping Advisory Committee Judicial and Appeals Officer, World Rugby. Since his appointment to the Ontario Superior Court of Justice, Mew has not provided legal counsel on Rugby Canada’s behalf. 36
BIOGRAPHY
The Honourable Graeme Mew BA (HONS), LL.B., FCIARB, was appointed as a judge of the Ontario Superior Court of Justice in December 2013. Prior to his appointment, he practiced as an advocate, arbitrator and mediator in Toronto and London (UK). He holds law degrees from Kingston University in the UK and from the University of Windsor. He was a member of the Bars of England & Wales (Middle Temple, 1982), Ontario (1987) and British Columbia (2010). His practice concentrated on civil litigation, insurance law, commercial arbitration and mediation and sports disputes. He is a past President of the Commonwealth Lawyers Association (2005-7) and was President of the Toronto Nomads Rugby Club (2001). He was an Appeal Officer at the Rugby World Cup in 2003 (Australia), 2007 (France) and 2011 (New Zealand) and has served as a judicial and appeals officer for the World Rugby board since 2001 and as a member of the World Rugby’s Anti-Doping Advisory Committee since its establishment in 2000.
SAM JOHNSTON
Partner - Gowling Lafleur Henderson LLP AREA OF LEGAL EXPERTISE
Sam Johnston is a Partner at Gowling Lafleur Henderson LLP. Sam practices corporate law both generally, in respect of mergers & acquisitions, corporate governance, commercial agreements, etc., and specifically, in respect of the formation of funds in the alternative investments industry. He also has a broad practice in the area of charities and not-for-profit law, including in respect of RCAAAs. This work includes establishing and advising such entities in all of their corporate law needs.
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Sam acts as corporate counsel to Rugby Canada, advising them on a broad range of issues including corporate governance and commercial arrangements.
BIOGRAPHY
Sam Johnston grew up in Chilliwack, British Columbia before attending high school at St. George’s School in Vancouver. While a senior at St. George’s, he was a member of the provincial champion first XV in rugby. Sam attended undergrad and law school at Queen’s University where he also played varsity rugby for five seasons, winning three OUA championships. After law school, Sam started his practice at Gowling Lafleur Henderson LLP and has been there ever since.
PROFILES JOSH HANET
Associate - Gowling Lafleur Henderson LLP AREA OF LEGAL EXPERTISE
Josh Hanet is an associate in Gowlings’ Toronto office, practising in the area of advocacy. His practice focuses on medical defence, product liability, professional liability and commercial litigation.
ROLE WITH RUGBY CANADA commercial negotiations.
Josh acts as a commercial litigator on behalf of Rugby Canada and has been involved in various
MORGAN MARTIN
Associate - Clyde & Co Canada LLP AREA OF LEGAL EXPERTISE
Morgan has been involved in a wide array of litigation matters focusing on general insurance and risk management, including occupiers’ liability, municipal liability, professional negligence claims, motor vehicle insurance, liquor liability (commercial and social host), property insurance, product liability claims and civil claims involving police liability.
ROLE WITH RUGBY CANADA
BIOGRAPHY
Josh has significant experience representing physicians in both civil and administrative matters, as well as class action defence work for defendants from varied industries, including the consumer product, pharmaceutical, medical devices and manufacturing sectors. Josh has also developed particular expertise in the enforcement of orders from foreign jurisdictions and obtaining letters rogatory, in Ontario. Josh has appeared before all levels of Court in Ontario, including the Court of Appeal, and has represented clients at professional regulatory bodies and other administrative tribunals.
HARRY GOSLETT
Partner - Business Immigration Law Group AREA OF LEGAL EXPERTISE
Harry Goslett is a Partner and Registered Canadian Immigration Consultant. He has over 25 years’ experience serving the Canadian immigration need of corporate clients and individuals in a variety of industries in Canada and internationally. Harry’s expertise is in the area of Canadian immigration law obtaining work permits, study permits, permanent resident status etc. Harry also has experience with NAFTA and other international trade agreements.
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Harry provides advice regarding Canadian immigration matters to Rugby Canada.
BIOGRAPHY
Harry Goslett is a graduate of Brock University and the University of Toronto. He has over 40 years of Canadian immigration experience. He is the co-author of The Annotated Immigration and Refugee Protection Act and The Annotated Canadian Citizenship Act as well as the author of numerous published articles on Canadian immigration and citizenship matters.
ROGER SMITH
Partner - Witten LLP
AREA OF LEGAL EXPERTISE
Roger Smith is a Partner at Witten LLP Barristers & Solicitors based out of Edmonton, Alberta. Roger is a solicitor who focuses on corporate law, tax planning, gaming law, and aboriginal law.
Morgan represents athletes before the International Rugby Board and the Sports Dispute Resolution Centre of Canada (SDRCC) in doping, team selection and carding disputes.
BIOGRAPHY
In addition to his insurance defence practice, Morgan has a keen interest in sports law. Recently, he has represented athletes before the World Rugby Board and the Sports Dispute Resolution Centre of Canada (SDRCC) in doping, team selection and carding disputes. In November of 2013, Morgan sat on the first ever Fédération Internationale de Volleyball Appeals Panel hearing a transfer dispute. Morgan clerked for the Court of Arbitration for Sport at the 2005 Commonwealth Games in Melbourne, Australia, and the 2008 Summer Olympic Games in Beijing, China.
KEITH GEURTS
Partner - Clyde & Co Canada LLP AREA OF LEGAL EXPERTISE
Keith is currently chair of Toronto’s AntiCorruption Group and practices in a variety of complex commercial/insurance, regulatory/ criminal and anti-corruption areas. Keith represents clients in domestic and international anti-corruption, conspiracy, and fraud investigations involving enforcement agencies.
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Keith assists Rugby Canada in the area of litigation.
BIOGRAPHY
Keith was called to the Ontario Bar in 1999. He started his career as an Assistant Crown Attorney in the Region of Peel. Keith then joined Smith Lyons and became a partner at its successor firm, Gowling Lafleur Henderson. Keith joined Clyde and Co in December 2012. Keith has appeared at all levels of court including jury and non-jury trials, regulatory offences and class actions. He has acted in regulatory offences involving the Competition Bureau, Ontario Securities Commission, the Real Estate Commission of Ontario, Canadian Border Services and the Attorney General’s office.
JOHN ORMSTON
Partner - Ormston List Frawley LLP AREA OF LEGAL EXPERTISE
John Patrick Ormston is a Partner at Ormston List Frawley LLP. John practices Commercial Litigation, Employment Law and General Commercial Law.
ROLE WITH RUGBY CANADA
Roger Smith once served as President of the Board of Directors. Roger provides general corporate law and governance counsel to Rugby Canada, supporting various legal requirements of the Union.
BIOGRAPHY
He earned his B.B.A (1986) from St. Francis Xavier University and his LL.B. (1989) from the University of Saskatchewan. The past president of Rugby Canada, Roger is currently a Judicial Officer for the International Rugby Board. He has sat on numerous charitable and non-profit boards over the years and given seminars on Aboriginal Economic Development, Aboriginal Tax, and Corporate Governance.
ROLE WITH RUGBY CANADA BIOGRAPHY
John Ormston provides general commercial advice mainly with respect to sponsorship agreements
John is a graduate of Wilfrid Laurier University (BBA ‘89) and Western University (LLB ‘93). From ‘93 to ‘05 John was a litigator at Smith Lyons and then Gowlings when the two firms merged. In 2006 John and his partners Mike List and Denis Frawley formed Ormston List Frawley LLP. John played rugby in high school and University and remains an avid fan. 37
2014 YEAR IN REVIEW
dkphoto.ca
McCORMICK CUP
PROVEN CHAMPIONS Balmy Beach defeated the Toronto Scottish in a nail-biter.
BY BROCK SMITH IN TORONTO
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n the past generation, no Ontario rugby club’s senior men’s program has been as successful, or as decorated, as Balmy Beach’s. It’s been a no-contest; a David vs. Goliath story on loop, but instead of an ending that yields a triumphant underdog, a blue and gold Goliath consistently finds a way to come out on top, again and again. When it comes to Balmy Beach, a club based in the Beaches neighbourhood of Toronto, no other club has come close to emulating their provincial cup successes in the past 35 years. Since 1980, Balmy Beach has won 12 provincial cup titles – six more than the next closest clubs, the Irish Canadians (now Markham Irish) and Ottawa Irish, have won in that same span. Balmy Beach hasn’t been a flash in the pan, either. The 1980s was a particularly strong decade for the club, beginning with consecutive Carling Cup victories in 1980-1981. After the provincial title was renamed for former Rugby Ontario President Vic McCormick in 1982, the Blue and Gold went on to earn five straight championships from 1985-1989 – a run that serves as one of the greatest dynasties in Ontario rugby history. After winning just one provincial championship in the 1990s (1997), the turn of the millennium marked a Balmy Beach resurgence, with the club hoisting Ontario men’s rugby’s oldest and most coveted prize in 2004-2005, 2011, and most recently, 2014. The latest edition of the McCormick Cup Final will likely be considered one of the most thrilling provincial championship matches of the past decade, with Balmy Beach defeating local rivals Toronto Scottish 27-22 in a back-and-forth nail-biter on Oct. 25. Having won the Marshall Premiership league title earlier in the year, Balmy Beach entered the McCormick Cup Final as the tournament’s top seed, one slot higher than 38
CLUBS WITH MOST PROVINCIAL CUP TITLES
17
Irish Canadians / Markham Irish
14
Balmy Beach
8
Toronto Nomads
6
Ottawa Irish
6
Toronto Barbarians / Aurora Barbarians
their opponents, Toronto Scottish, who finished their league campaign as Premiership runners-up. Both sides eased their way into McCormick Cup Final berths, with Balmy Beach notably outscoring their opponents 200-39 in the tournament’s opening three rounds. The opening half of the McCormick Cup Final was anything but dull: with five lead changes and 41 total points scored, the initial 40 minutes featured the intensity one could expect from a championship match. At the interval, Balmy Beach held a 22-19 lead, with first-half points coming via tries from centre Sean Gowland, wing Ryan MacSween, and scrum-half Brendan Dorus, along with a penalty kick from fullback Connor McCann. Toronto Scottish put up their opening-frame points through scrum-half Dan Visentin’s try, along with four penalty kicks from wing Milan Cookson. The second half opened with yet another Cookson penalty, struck one minute into the half, to level the score at 22-22. In their efforts to take control of the match, handling errors and indiscipline crept into the Scottish side, resulting in a yellow card given to centre Rahim Dharamsi for repeat infringement, issued at the 53-minute mark. The sin bin sentence would prove costly for Scottish, as the superiornumbered Beach broke the deadlock minutes later when MacSween sped into the corner for his second try of the match, giving his side a 27-22 lead. Despite sending wave after wave of attack at the Beach defensive line throughout the final 20 minutes of the match, and coming within a few feet of a try in the dying seconds, Scottish were unable to mount a comeback. At the sound of the final whistle, Beach’s stalwart defensive play in the latter stages of the match sealed a 27-22 victory, earning the club their 14th provincial championship in the Cup’s 65-year history. “It’s hard to sum up just how much it means to win the McCormick Cup,” said Balmy Beach captain Haydn Gage after the match. “Lifting the Cup, and being able to call ourselves Ontario’s best, is a fantastic achievement for the Beach. Everyone at the club has been working for years get to this point, and now we’re here. The hard work has paid off.” “For me, Scott Dunham, and Shayne Pierce, we thrive off the pressure that we put on each other to make sure that we don’t leave until the new crop of kids are ready to take over,” added Gage. “A lot of us are going to get shipped out to pasture next year, but with all the young talent coming up through the ranks, our side will be just fine down the road.” For now, Gage and the rest of his side can take some time to savour their most recent McCormick Cup championship, before they enter next season with what the captain describes as “targets on our backs.” However, these targets are certainly justified. With both league and cup titles entering their clubhouse trophy case this past season, Balmy Beach has proven, yet again, that they are Ontario’s team to beat.
VISIT STORE.RUGBYCANADA.CA FOR ALL OF YOUR RUGBY NEEDS 39
SENIOR WOMENS
2014 YEAR IN REVIEW
The Magali Effect Magali Harvey had a TSN hi-lite try and put women’s rugby in the national spotlight. Well done.
BY BRYAN KELLY PHOTO BY RON LEBLANC
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hanks to her exciting tries, worldclass goal kicking and overall play in France throughout the World Rugby Women’s Rugby World Cup, Magali Harvey is now a household name in Canada. The Quebec City native was awarded the World Rugby Women’s Player of the Year and helped Canada to its best-ever second place finish this summer in Paris. Harvey finished the tournament behind only England’s Emily Scarratt in the points scoring race with a total of 61 points in five games. The right-winger opened the tournament with a 26-point thumping of Spain, scoring three first-half tries and going 4/5 off the boot in the 41-5 victory. While she was unable to cross the try line in the next two games against Samoa and England, Harvey’s kicking was near spot on as she went 9/10 to help her side defeat the island nation and draw with the 2010 runner-ups. The real magic, however, would happen at Stade Jean Bouin in downtown Paris on August 13 after Canada advanced to the semi-finals against the hosts, France. Early in the second half, Canada’s forwards stole the scrum on their own five-metre line and the ball was spun wide through the hands to Harvey. The 24-year-old showed her incredible pace to beat the French backline and score in the corner. Showing her true athletic ability, Harvey added the conversion from the sideline to help ice an 1816 victory and push Canada into their first-ever finals. The try defeated 11-day champion Jose Reyes of the Toronto Blue Jays on TSN’s 1V1 segment as part of their nightly voting segment.
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Harvey maintained the championship title for five consecutive days before being de-throned by Alex Barker’s catch from the Little League World Series. Canadians from coast-to-coast were astounded by Harvey’s flat out pace and shimmyand-shake to burn past French fullback Christelle Le Duff. That try would eventually be touted against the top men’s rugby tries of the year in an online competition by World Rugby, the only woman of the five submissions. (South African Francois Hougaard eventually took top honours) England’s defense was on point in the finals and kept Harvey to only a few line breaks, but they couldn’t stop her from slotting arguably the best kick of the Women’s World Cup. Five minutes into the second half and trailing 11-3, England was penalized 15 metres from their right touchline at their 40-metre mark. Showing a huge level of confidence under intense pressure, Harvey stepped up and slotted the 39-metre kick to bring Canada to within five points. In the end Canada couldn’t take home the tournament title against England. However, through their fervent national pride, team-first attitude and exciting highlights, our Women’s Team – including our Player of the Year, Magali Harvey – captured the attention of the entire nation and helped boost the profile of women’s rugby. To watch Harvey’s hi-lite try, visit RUGBY.ca
SPOTLIGHT
PHIL MACKENZIE BY PATRICK JOHNSTON PHOTO BY SALE SHARKS
PRESENTED BY
IT WAS AN AMAZING PLACE TO GO TO SCHOOL; THERE’S TONS TO DO THERE.
MACKENZIE Q&A PHIL
POWERING FORWARD Phil Mackenzie is in the Aviva Premiership with Sale Sharks these days, a move that suits the energetic winger.
≥ How do you relax?
Is Phil the most positive man in Canadian rugby? It’s quite the crown, but if he has to wear it, it’s something the Ontario-bred, B.C.-trained, Sale-employed winger will do so happily.
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t’s been a rugby-less but still great summer for Mackenzie. Hobbled by injury, he missed out on all of Canada’s tests as he recovered from tears in his hamstring, his back and a bulging disc, all problems that had been dogging for a good while. “It was about time I got them sorted,” said the Oakville native. Also, he got married, tying the knot with new wife Brodie. They’d known together for four and a half years and had been engaged for just over a year. The couple first met while he was attending a Rugby Canada camp in Victoria. “It was amazing,” he said of the wedding in a which featured plenty of teammates as guests at the Fermenting Cellar in Toronto’s Distillery District. “This summer’s obviously a little different, it’s the first I haven’t played in a while,” he said. With rugby being nearly twelve months a year, time off is hard to find. “Sale managed this year to give us time off,” he said. Then this summer, between injury and the wedding, Mackenzie had plenty of time to relax, recuperate and catch up with friends. “I’ve hung out and seen some friend I haven’t seen in years,” he said. Mackenzie played his high school rugby in Oakville, then moved to the west coast for university, where he played for Doug Tate at UVic. “It was purely rugby that guided me,” he said. “I did apply to Queen’s commerce, but every where else, it was all about the rugby - Brisbane, Loughborough, Victoria. I travelled out and met Doug and was drawn. It was a very cool vibe there.” “It was an amazing place to go to school; there’s tons to do there.”
Getting out and about has always been one of Mackenzie’s priorities - anyone who follows his Twitter or Instagram accounts can see that. This summer saw MacKenzie sharing his beach-time exploits, the first time he’d been able to really stretch out in a couple years. “Definitely shirtless, that’s for sure,” he admitted with a chuckle. “Ten months in the UK, you don’t get much!” Mackenzie made his debut for Canada in 2008, then turned professional a year later, signing with Coventry. He’s played in England every since, making stops at Esher and London Welsh before signing on with Sale Sharks a year ago. He’s loving the setup at the Manchester club. The season was busy, but the coaching staff focused in on getting the players plenty of rest time. “The last five months were shorter days, we had more time off,” he explained. “We’d finish up around 1, then I had physio every day.” Then it was a touch of social time before he’d get back to his studies. “We’ve got really good culture, a lot of the boys, they hang around and have a chat. Then I’d come home and eat, then a little school work.” CELEBRATE Mackenzie and DTH van der Merwe introduced a new way to celebrate at the 2011 World Cup.
Yes, that’s right, Phil Mackenzie, professional rugby player, is still a student: he’s studying leadership and management through Northumbria University. “When I decided to go overseas, I didn’t think it would be long term, that I’d come back to Canada and finish my degree,” he said. “But I’ve been here five years ago, it’s a goal to finish up.” Mackenzie throws much credit towards the Rugby Players Association. “It’s awesome, it’s through the RPA the players union - hey came to training. I was doing weights and few guys were talking about it. I got very interested,” he said. “They’re really on the ball.” “At Sale, there’s three guys this year that did it, but next year there’s going to be like six in the club,” he said. And although the other players at Sale aren’t in the same program as him, it’s still good to have other players-students with him at Sale. “It definitely helps,” he said. “I talk to some guys at London Welsh welsh, two guys there are doing it.” And through it all, MacKenzie’s powered by staying positive. It’s a lesson for us all.
This is going to sound really weird, it’s stressful doing university work after training, but once I finish my homework I feel super relaxed but a sense of accomplishment, it’s easy to get sucked up into rugby, you’ve had a hard training, you just want to stop. But the guys who’ve got something going on besides rugby, working on their house, their business, it gives them a getaway from rugby, I find those guys are most relaxed, despite everything. ≥This summer, you’ve had a
lot of beach time...first time in a while? I haven’t had a break in a long time, it refreshed me big time! ≥You’re known for your positivity
- have you always been like that? I think it’s the people around me that keep me honest, especially in the UK, it’s easy to just think about rugby or missing your friends, the people around you cheer you up, but not a lot of people get rugby so I just ≥ In terms of physical
preparation, is there one exercise or drill that is your favourite? On the field, 15 on 15 live rugby in training, that’s my favourite, we do that a lot at Sale! (Chuckles) I love it, it’s just like a game. Last season, we probably did that three times a week. ≥ Favourite thing to cook?
I cook a lot because I eat a lot, but nothing too complicated. I make chicken and rice - spicy rice almost every day. It’s so easy, I get starving at like 4 so i eat that. 41
CANADIAN RUGBY CHAMPIONSHIP
2014 YEAR IN REVIEW
FOUR-PEAT The Ontario Blues are running out of fingers as they claimed a fourth straight CRC title in 2014.
What do you call a team that won four consecutive titles? The Ontario Blues are a dynasty. BY BROCK SMITH PHOTO BY JOSÉ LAGMAN When it comes to assessing the value of a championship, the jury can often be out on quantifying the true legacy of a title-winner. A team claiming a single championship? Impressive, but it could just be a one-off. 42
Two in a row? An indication of a strong foundation, but maybe the league’s other teams had an off year. Three straight? Now we’re talking about a system that works, through and through, but will it stand the test of time? But four consecutive titles? There can only be one word to describe such a feat: dynastic. The Ontario Blues continued their prolific run in the Canadian Rugby Championship in 2014, using a 45-5 victory over the Atlantic Rock in late September to secure their fourth straight MacTier Cup. While the end result may have been the same as seasons past, Ontario’s road to their most recent national title was far bumpier than the one taken in last year’s perfect season. After jumping to a 4-0 record by mid-September, the Blues appeared to be on cruise control towards yet another MacTier Cup, until the would-be champions were handed a rude awakening by a beefed-up Prairie Wolf Pack side looking to knock Ontario off its lofty perch. The Wolf Pack denied Ontario the chance to win the national title on home soil, defeating the Blues 29-26 in Peterborough, Ont. on Sept. 21. The loss not only bumped the Blues to second place in the CRC standings, but it also
CANADIAN RUGBY CHAMPIONSHIP
PRESENTED BY
“We approached that game just like any other – as cliché as that sounds – but we’re a fun team to play on, because we play so relaxed. We prepare relaxed. We go into games relaxed. And we come away with victories because we are relaxed,” said Dunham. “Our mindset starts at the top with our captain, Derek Daypuck, who made sure that every single player got on that plane to Newfoundland knowing we’d have to work hard, but that the championship was going to come.” And that championship certainly came. After going down 5-0 to the Rock early in the MacTier Cup-deciding match, the Blues jettisoned any early-match nerves by rattling off 45 straight points – including a six-try secondhalf performance – to win both the match, and their fourth consecutive national title. “The feeling you get from winning a national championship never gets old,” said Blues
WE’RE A FUN TEAM TO PLAY ON, BECAUSE WE PLAY SO RELAXED. WE PREPARE RELAXED. WE GO INTO GAMES RELAXED. AND WE COME AWAY WITH VICTORIES BECAUSE WE ARE RELAXED. SCOTT DUNHAM
ended Ontario’s 18-match winning streak – one that had been intact since 2012. Six-year Blues veteran Alistair Clark described the defeat as a firm reminder of the strong level of competition within the CRC. “In the first three or four years of the competition, there was parity among all teams,” remembered Clark. “No team went undefeated, everyone would beat each other, and each game was a coin flip. Last year’s undefeated season skewed our memory into thinking the parity was all but gone, but that discredited just how strong the other teams in this league are. Any team can win on any given day.” With one match remaining in the season, the Blues required a bonus-point victory over the Atlantic Rock in St. John’s, N.L. on Sept. 27 to ensure the MacTier Cup’s home would stay in Ontario. Anything less than a five-point performance by the Blues would have seen the Prairie Wolf Pack claim their first-ever national championship. Despite facing pressure that hadn’t been felt since two years prior, fellow six-year veteran Scott Dunham admitted that his side was not overcome by the occasion.
manager Mark Winokur. “To be this dominant in such a high-calibre competition is what drives us to continue to succeed, year after year. Our guys have worked so hard to achieve their four-peat, and it says a lot about the state of rugby in our province.” That hard work was indeed noticed, perhaps none more so than by the Canadian national team head coaches, who selected thirteen members of the Blues to represent Canadian national teams this past autumn. “Our program is all about building and identifying talent for our national teams,” added Winokur. “Winning multiple MacTier Cups has
been fantastic, but when it comes to developing our players along the national pathway, we’ve exceeded all expectations.” Beyond national teams, the Blues’ four-year dynasty has also produced its fair share of professional players. “Look at the guys that have played with the program over the past four years,” said Dunham, reflecting upon past teammates. “Stars like Brett Beukeboom, Tyler Ardron, and Tay Paris. Some of these guys are getting pretty good contracts overseas as a result of coming up through the Blues, which is a real measure of this program’s success.” When speaking with members of the Blues who have played on all four of Ontario’s MacTier Cup-winning teams, they don’t typically dwell on the fact that their trophy cabinet keeps filling up. Rather, what strikes them as most impressive is how they keep winning, year after year. “The amazing thing is how it hasn’t been the same one team, the same group of 25 or 30 guys, that’s played through all four years,” remarked Clark. The assumption that Ontario has used the same core group of players throughout each national title run, while common, is far from the truth. The Blues have undergone significant growth throughout their four-year reign as Canadian champions: more than 65 players have suited up for Ontario in the CRC between 2011 and 2014, with the this past year’s team featuring only 11 holdovers from their 2011 MacTier Cup-winning side. “Guys have come in and out, and are now being developed directly from our junior programs,” added Clark, who was one of 31 different players who represented Ontario in the CRC this past season. “For me, it signals there must be a really strong culture that’s leading to the success.” Four years on, Ontario’s diverse, relaxed team continues to find a way to win, despite the major personnel turnover. With this in mind, perhaps it’s no wonder the lineup of players vying for a chance to don the iconic Ontario double-blue isn’t getting any shorter. They are, after all, the first true dynasty of the Canadian Rugby Championship era. “It’s absolutely my favourite rugby that I’ve ever played,” Clark stated, firmly. “From the quality of the competition, to the culture of the team, there’s no other program like it.” “I love playing Blues rugby, and I’m going to keep playing Blues rugby for as long as I can.”
FINAL STANDINGS 2014 CANADIAN RUGBY CHAMPIONSHIP STANDINGS
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ONTARIO BLUES 5-1 24 pts 4 BNS
2
PRAIRIE WOLF PACK 5-1 23 pts 3 BNS
3
BC BEARS 2-3 10 pts 2 BNS
4
ATLANTIC ROCK 0-6 1 BNS 43
FUNDRAISING
SUPPORT YOUR RUGBY COMMUNITY 2015 FUNDRAISING EVENTS AND ACTIVITIES FEBRUARY 15 Las Vegas Sevens Post Party MARCH 26 Hong Kong Sevens Luncheon APRIL 1-4 Webb Ellis Trophy Tour Toronto & Vancouver APRIL 16 Annual Awards Ceremony Victoria
AWARDS NIGHT The 2015 Annual Awards Ceremony will be hosted by Her Honour, Judith Guichon, Lieutenant Governor of British Columbia at Government House on April 16, 2015
MAY (TBA) London Sevens Pub Night London ,UK
Celebrating Rugby BY PENNY KROLL
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JUNE (TBA) Redtail Golf Outing Port Stanley, ON JULY 8 Casino Night / Dinner Toronto
PHOTOS BY RUGBY CANADA
ith the Pan Am Games and Rugby World Cup bringing rugby to the forefront on an international level, it also provides us an opportunity to bring rugby fans together to support our national teams by attending these events and the many fundraisers and activities that will take place around them. Rugby Canada will host events that will interest everyone and give you the chance to spend some time with our players on a one to one basis. We also will be hosting events overseas this year so if you are not here in Canada you may have be able
to join us in a location closer to you. This year, we will also be celebrating the Year of Sport in Canada and there is no better way to help celebrate the role that sport plays in our country than to stand behind and support our national teams as they represent Canada both national and internationally. Details for these events are being added to our events website and will be posted on Rugby Canada’s social media sites. Please visit events.rugbycanada.ca for more information. JULY 16 Players Championship Golf Tournament Victoria AUGUST (TBA) Rugby World Cup Send-off Dinner Toronto SEPTEMBER (TBA) RWC Fundraising Dinner, Meet & Greets / Pub Socials for Canada’s RWC Pool Matches UK
SEND-OFF DINNER Guests honour our Men’s 15s team at the 2011 RWC Send-off in Toronto – another send-off will be held in Toronto in August 2015
FORE! Rugby Canada’s Phil Mack tees off at Bear Mountain – this year’s tournament will take place at Bear Mountain on July 16, 2015
OCTOBER (TBA) RWC Meet & Greets / Pub Socials for Canada’s RWC Pool Matches UK
TO SUPPORT: Please contact Penny Kroll at PKroll@rugbycanada.ca or 905.707.8998 ext 240 to discuss how you can help today’s players be the best they can be when playing for Canada. 44
FUNDRAISING
SUPPORT YOUR RUGBY COMMUNITY
HONG KONG FUND TO HELP CANADIAN SEVENS PROGRAMS A FUND-RAISING LUNCH IN HONG KONG GREW UP INTO THE BIGGEST SOURCE OF PRIVATE FUNDS FOR BOOSTING THE CANADIAN NATIONAL MEN’S SEVENS TEAM. NOW IT IS GOING TO ASSIST CHILDREN IN HONG KONG AND, SOMEDAY SOON, IN CANADA.
F
or well over a decade, a group of diehard Canadian rugby fans in Hong Kong, have supported the Canadian National Men’s Sevens team through an annual fundraising effort. Encouraged by the teams’ success, the fans have now begun efforts to increase their fundraising efforts so that it will become the biggest source of private funds supporting Canada’s National Men’s Sevens team. The Hong Kong based fund is over half-way to its goal of establishing a $1 million CDN endowment fund that will help support Canada’s rise to become a global competitor on the World Rugby Sevens circuit and to assist it to qualify for the Olympics in Rio de Janiero in 2016. “Contributions have come from an incredibly proud and patriotic fan base among the 300,000 Canadians living in Hong Kong. Dedicated volunteers put in months of work leading up to the HK 7s and the fund has had some very generous people step up to show their support to Canada,” said Stephanie Crozier, Executive Director.
Each year during the Hong Kong Rugby Sevens weekend, a perennially sold-out “Long Lunch” is held prior to the tournament. This year the luncheon will be held on Thursday March 26th , 2015 at the Excelsior Hotel in Causeway Bay with World Rugby CEO, Brett Gosper as the keynote speaker and World Rugby Hall of Fame star, Gareth Rees as emcee.
THE HONG KONG RUGBY 7S FUND
The success of the first fund has inspired others to get involved and expand the mission. Local Hong Kong businessman Allen Fu along with his daughter Carmen Fu have spearheaded an effort to support the Canadian Rugby 7s endowment - and give back to the local Hong Kong community. Rugby has long been known as ‘the gentleman’s game’. It is a powerful outlet for helping young people develop leadership skills, team spirit, discipline and develop camaraderie with positive role-models while harnessing the vitality of youth to good ends. The new Fund, managed by the Canadian Rugby 7s fund will send 20% of funds raised to support
YOU CAN SUPPORT OUR TEAM AND OUR KIDS Contact Stephanie Crozier by email (stephcrozier@ canada7sfund.com) to connect to the Canadian Rugby 7s Fund and the Hong Kong 7s Fund to donate, get on our mailing list or find out more. Become a patron and join the private dinner hosted by Canadian Consul General and Honorary Chair of the Canadian Rugby 7s Fund, Mr. Ian Burchett at the Official Residence on March 3, 2015. Come to the Great Canadian Rugby “Long Lunch” on March 26th in Hong Kong. Contact Stephanie Crozier, Executive Director, at stephcrozier@ canada7sfund.com and visit canada7sfund.com
INCREDIBLE EFFORT Alan Fu has been the key to fundraising efforts in Hong Kong for the Canadian Sevens programs.
programs for local underprivileged and lowincome children in Hong Kong to participate in rugby training. The Canadian Rugby Sevens Fund will use its infrastructure and expertise to help manage the Hong Kong Rugby 7s Fund. The Hong Kong Rugby Sevens Fund is aiming to raise $250,000 CDN in 2015. The objective is to help children take part in programs run by the Hong Kong Fund and ESL Sports. Allen Fu is leading by example and has donated the first $25,000 CDN to give promising young people a chance at scholarships to Canadian and international schools. Mr. Fu sees this project reaching back into Canada to give those less well off children the support they need to get into the game on the field, and in life. He believes the business and rugby communities in Hong Kong and Canada can make a difference. The leadership of those establishing both the Canadian Rugby 7s Fund and the associated new Hong Kong Rugby 7s Fund have proven effective at helping to elevate our national sevens teams. Now they want to elevate the lives of children, through rugby, as well. Whether in Hong Kong or Canada, we hope you can support this mission in your community. 45
THE LAST WORD
MEAGHAN HOWAT
VIEWS OF RUGBY IN CANADA
WOMEN’S PROGRAM MANAGER, RUGBY CANADA
A Look Ahead This year is going to be exciting but let’s look even further to 2017
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AS A STAFF AND UNION WE CAN NEVER REST ON PAST RESULTS AND WE NEED TO BE RELENTLESS IN OUR DRIVE TO IMPROVE SO THAT WE CAN HAVE MORE PODIUM FINISHES AND MOVE UP THE RANKINGS, TO GROW OUR CANADIAN PRIDE, INSPIRE OUR YOUTH PLAYERS, AND BUILD RUGBY CANADA’S PRESENCE ON THE WORLD STAGE.
PROUD PLAYERS Magali Harvey had a career year in 2014. Inset: Jess Dovanne, Andrea Burk and Mandy Marchak were in good voice singing Canada’s anthem this past year.
Ian Muir
win in the sold-out Jean-Bouin stadium, I am even more excited to be alongside, supporting, all of our teams in the coming years. Seeing the elation on the player’s faces, knowing what they had accomplished, as a team and for the sport in Canada, was truly memorable. I will never forget seeing Hilary run across the field to greet the rest of her team to celebrate, and thankfully for the rest of Canada TSN caught every second of it as well. We had daily updates of the support from back in Canada and from our alumni through video messages and emails, and it was a frequent reminder of the spirit of Rugby and its ability to bring people together. Off the back of the World Cup performance I am excited to announce plans to host East, West, and Atlantic camps in March and April to develop the depth chart for the next World Cup cycle. The fifteens program will be looking at a strong fixtures calendar for the next three years to promote an increased competitiveness and a legitimate goal of a top finish in 2017. Rio qualification and the Series stops are the top priority for women’s Sevens this year. I am just flying back from Dubai after the OT win to claim 3rd place. Watching the players and program develop over the past two years makes every series that much more special and the journey is just beginning with 5 more stops this season. Seeing our program’s focus and dedication at home in the daily training environment is a constant reminder of the overall commitment to improving and achieving gold in 2016. Watching the players gut it out through tough conditioning sessions and hours in the gym and on the field is motivating to me to be even better for them and the program. Sharing a singular goal and spending hundreds of days on the road together fosters a familial environment where we have learnt to rely on one-another as staff and players. Yet, the support we receive from across the country, from a simple Facebook post to email, is invaluable and felt wherever the team travels. 2015 is going to be an exciting year with
Ian Muir
HAVING THE PRIVILEGE OF BEING FIELDSIDE WITH THE TEAM after their semi-final
the Men’s World Cup and the Pan Am games. However, as a union we will need to focus on talent identification and development as we look beyond next year and build towards the pinnacle events in 2017 and 2019. Establishing depth across all programs is critical for future success and in order to achieve such depth it will be imperative to discover and promote the development of Canada’s talented young rugby players. The start of Try 4 Gold and newly established regional training centres is promising for Rugby Canada’s future and looking to the Olympics in 2020. But as a staff and union we can never rest on past results and we need to be relentless in our drive to improve so that we can have more podium finishes and move up the rankings, to grow our Canadian pride, inspire our youth players, and build Rugby Canada’s presence on the world stage. When you think about all that we are capable of it really is an exciting time for Canadian Rugby and something I am grateful to be a part of.
UBC RUGBY
GREAT EDUCATION. GREAT RUGBY. • One of North America’s top ranked university rugby programs • Home of “BC Rugby Centre of Excellence” • Active and engaged alumni base • Historic program • International tours • International talent • Eight month season of fantastic rugby weather • Home of Canada’s best rugby facilities • Scholarship opportunities • Five years of eligibility • UBC broad based admission program • Guaranteed residence access for first year students • Established pathway to Rugby Canada representation • Five national and provincial level coaches
JOIN US Spence McTavish Men’s General Manager spence.mctavish@ubc.ca 1.604.822.5958
Rameses Langston Men’s Head Coach rameses.langston@ubcrugby.com 1.778.887.2300
Curry Hitchborn Men’s Forwards Coach curry.hitchborn@ubcrugby.com 1.604.765.0923
ubcrugby.com
Pat Fleck Men’s 7’s Coach pat.fleck@ubcrugby.com 1.778.838.1352
Dr. Maria Gallo Women’s Head Coach maria.gallo@ubc.ca 1.604.822.5084
LIFESTYLE
‌ d e l z z a d e b , e Com
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