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CONTENTS In this Issue

SPRING 2013 Issue 01

The GOODS

SUMMER PREVIEW

This summer is going to be a fanastic display of international rugby across Canada. BY jeff hull

22 24

CFL COMBINE

Scouting football for potential rugby prospects. BY chris perrotte

CANADIAN RUGBY CHAMPIONSHIP

Can the Ontario Blues three-peat? BY andrew smith

COVER

Chasing 494

James Pritchard tracking down Gareth Rees, chasing World Cup glory. BY Patrick Johnston

a simple plan

pursuit in Russia

If Canada is going to enjoy Sevens success in the 2016 Olympics, the British Columbia Youth Sevens Program is looking for the next generation. BY doug crosse For once Canadian men’s and women’s teams are in pursuit of a championship in Russia – and no skates and sticks are involved! The World Cup of Sevens is in Moscow – and Canada is in the thick of it! BY bryan ray

The regular Stuff 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

32 The Vault

We unlock the Rugby Canada archives. This issue features Gord MacKinnon. BY doug crosse

36 Coach’s Playbook

Tips and drills from Dustin Hopkins

37 Fundraising

Support your rugby community

39 Spotlight

2012 Player of the year, Bianca Farella

44 It’s Your Call

Rules and regulations from Trevor Arnold

partners in the pursuit of excellence

45 Lifestyle

The art of a close shave

46 The Last Word

Al Charron talks about rugby in Canada

COVER: James Pritchard. Photo By Judy Teasdale 3

FREEZE FRAME

PRESENTED BY

mistackle Ciaran Hearn (The Rock, Castaway Wanderers) and the Canadian team will be taking on the USA again at BMO Field - this time as part of a home and away World Cup qualifying series that will see them play in Charleston, SC as well.

Photo

JosĂŠ Lagman 4

FREEZE FRAME

PRESENTED BY

IS IT MY DAY FOR LAUNDRY? Seb Pearson (Ontario Blues) of the London St Georgeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s rugby club put in a hard day at the office in the 2012 McCormick Cup final against the Oakville Crusaders. The Cru won 12-3.

Photo

Colin Watson 6

FREEZE FRAME

PRESENTED BY

My Left Boot Matt Evans (Cowichan RFC) did not get distracted from the task at hand, despite losing his left boot while playing in a win over the USA at Richardson Stadium in Kingston in 2012.

Photo

JosĂŠ Lagman 8

FIRST WORDS Publisher Rugby Canada

Editor Doug Crosse Design & Layout PIX Photography José Lagman Judy Teasdale Colin Watson Ian Muir

Martin Seras Lima Hugh Jervis Bryan Kelly JAG

Contributing Writers Jeff Hull Patrick Johnston Andrew Smith Bryan Ray Doug Crosse

Al Charron Penny Kroll Chris Perrotte Bryan Kelly

Advertising Sales Trojan One 10 Alcorn Ave, Toronto, ON M4V 3A9 (416) 920-7044 magsales@rugbycanada.ca Printer Transcontinental 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. 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. RC Board of Directors Pat Aldous Graham Brown Keith Gillam Gord Sneddon Jay Johnston Troy Myers Larry Jones Cathy Henderson Tim Powers Jamie Lockwood Pearse Higgins Doug Campbell Chris Lefevre Dawn MacDonald Dauphinee Mark Lawson Rick Powers Rick Bourne

Chairman CEO Vice Chairman/CGC Rep. Secretary Treasurer General Director General Director General Director General Director General Director Provincial Director Provincial Director IRB Council Rep Female Athlete Rep. Male Athlete Rep. COC Representative Past Chairman/NACRA Rep.

CANADA POST CORPORATION agreement no. 40020560 10

Message from the chairman

Welcome to RUGBYca magazine Dear Rugby Canada Registrants, I hope you are enjoying your first issue of RUGBYca magazine! It has been exciting to be able to create this communications piece as part of an overall strategy of increasing awareness and methods of reaching our core constituency - the Canadian rugby player. Integrated through our soon to be improved website, our new web streaming channel, and increased television exposure for our men’s national team in Canada, RUGBYca magazine will grow in to becoming the historical record of the sport we play. In an age where information is received in 140 character snippets, and news is considered old after just a few hours, we want something that will be a touchstone when looking at an old issue of RUGBYca in ten or fifteen years time. We also want fans to get to know our national team players and help make them household names. For today - we want original content that will not be put on our website - longer form interviews, great

JAG

SPRING 2013 / Number 01

double page photos, interesting tips and tricks from the pros - and all in a good looking print piece that will find a home on waiting room tables, rugby clubs, and school gyms. I want to personally thank the Rugby Canada Board of Directors for their support of this initiative, along with the support of the provincial unions, as well as our many sponsors. Rugby in this country is growing - and as we head to the Olympics in 2016, we want to share our story with as many people as possible.. This magazine will be a key piece of that communications strategy going forward. So sit back, relax, and enjoy Volume 1, Issue 1, of RUGBYca magazine! Sincerely,

pat aldous Rugby Canada Chairman

Message from the EDITOR

Dear Readers, Welcome to the Premiere Issue of RUGBYca magazine! The concept of this periodical came about at an odd tipping point in the history of content creation. In a time where it seems all media is being consumed via a digital platform - most noticeably mobile - we also realized that not all content is best served on a screen from an insatiable system that asks for more and can never truly be filled. So, we determined that photography, long form interviews, and magazine only features would be the hallmarks of our new publication. Created for the registered Rugby Canada user base - this magazine will allow people to share the sport they love with those around them, and also have a more permanent record of moments in big games, interviews with people they know and also key information about the progression of the sport in this country. So who is receiving this magazine? If you were registered with Rugby Canada between 2012 and April 1st, 2013, you should receive a copy of RugbyCA to the registered address as set by your local rugby

club. The summer issue (due in August) will go out to any new registrants from April 2nd, 2013 to June 15th, 2013 as well as previous registrants. The final issue for the year in November will include the whole country as registered for the current season. (If you have a question about where your magazine should be sent - go to Rugby.ca and click on “Subscription Questions”, to send Rugby Canada a question.) For those who still like to read their content via iPad or other mobile device, each issue is available digitally - though in its first iterations - we will provide layout in portrait style only. To get your issue digitally we ask that you go to Rugby.ca and you can download both English and French editions as a PDF for use on your favourite device. We will also ask you to register to receive the digital version automatically at the rugby.ca site. Thanks to all those who have helped make this magazine a reality. We look forward to your feedback and participation in future issues!

Doug Crosse RUGBYca Editor RUGBY ONTARIO - Provincial Logo FOR PRINT USE ONLY

Thanks to the Provincial Unions

PIX

04-10-

CANADA vs USA

CANADA vs FIJI

CANADA vs TONGA

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Kick Off: 6pm

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THE ENGINE ROOM Not all rugby news happens on The PITCH

Heineken cup heartbreak

PRESENTED BY

FLIGHT LINE Players travel thousands of kms

jamie cudmore

- so we asked what helps pass the time in the air.

Canadian second row Jamie Cudmore experienced Heineken Cup heartbreak as his Clermont Auvergne side fell to a class Toulon squad 16-15 in Dublin on May 19th. The Squamish, BC native fought back from a shoulder injury in the semi-final to be match fit for the all French championship match played in front of 50,000 fans. Toulon - led by England legend Jonny Wilkinson, were outscored by two tries to one - but Wilko’s boot provided the edge with three penalties and a conversion of Delon Armitage’s try. In an article in the Guardian newspaper, Cudmore was excited at the prospect of playing in the final, saying, “I never thought in a thousand years I’d be playing in a Heineken Cup final. I remember watching the tournament back home in Canada and thinking: Wouldn’t it be great just to play in one game?”

Sponsorship with Canada on Track 03 CNRugby

Phil Mackenzie makes Premiership move

Phil Mackenzie (Oakville Crusaders RFC), had a breakout first season for Premiership side London Welsh - but his team’s fortunes slipped away with off the field shenanigans that ultimately saw them relegated a division to the RFU Championship. Mackenzie however, has landed on his feet and will be moving from London to Manchester where he will be playing for the Sale Sharks.

04 THE QUIZ Questions to Ashley 1. What is your partner’s name? Sean 2. Favourite place to play? Hong Kong 3. Super Hero Name & your power Cat Woman - Read minds

Ashley Steacy (Lethbridge RFC)

Mandy Marchak (Capilano RFC) 1. Sean 2. Dubai 3. Mighty Mouse, Super Speed 4. Sean, Stuffed Animal, Pillow 5. Birds 6. Human Centipede 7. Bunjy, Sky diving, Would try basejumping

A big welcome and hello to the fine folks at Canada’s largest rail network CN for their new involvement with rugby. Great to see CN involved in sponsoring a series of youth clinics surrounding this summer’s test series. The rail company has included safety messaging as part of the youth clinics held in Edmonton and Ottawa. Stay tuned further for their youth clinics!

we quizzed Ashley Steacy of the women’s national sevens team and then ask three teammates what her answers were.

4. Three Must Have Items on a desert Island a) Cell Phone b) Lip Balm c) Pony tail elastic 5. Biggest Fear Not being accepted by other people 6. Favourite Movie Braveheart 7. Done Sky Diving, Bunjy Jumping, would do Base jumping

Arielle Dubisette Borrice (Toronto Scottish) 1. Jeff 2. Hong Kong 3. Patzy, Fly 4. Wedding Ring, Elastic, Cell phone 5. Heights 6. Mean Girls 7. Bunjy, Base, Would skydive

between the 22’s The number of tries scored by Canada’s Sean Duke (U of Vic Vikes) - finishing third in the HSBC Sevens World Series - try scoring list.

Julia Greenshields (Sarnai Saints) 1. Sean 2. Dubai 3. Powerful Patzer, Super Strength 4. Wedding Ring, Phone, Lighter 5. Spiders 6. Pitch Perfect 7. Bunjy, Sky, Would try Base jumping

iPad Edition

Download a digital version (French or English) of RUGBYca Magazine at rugby.ca

Sean White (James Bay AA) Carry On Item: The boys love their candy - so wine gums is a good one and Sour Patch Kids are my go to. And then beef jerky, but if you forget about it, you’ve got to be sure to eat it on the plane or you’ll get the (security) dogs on you when you land at the airport. We’ve done that a couple of times where we will throw some beef jerky into somebody’s bag and they don’t know and walk through. All of a sudden the dog starts sniffing their bag and they get checked. I’m pretty basic when it comes to technology. I only got the iPhone this year. While we’re waiting for a flight we will all download a new App and see who can get the high score. Favourite App right now is probably Tinder - an online dating app. Kind of creepy but its good. The other one would probably be Twitter if you can call that an App. Favourite Venue: BMO at home. You are in a huge stadium and you’ve got crazy fans. Other than that - I would have to say Belgium. belgium was nuts. It was a tiny little field with stands built up all the way around and it was packed.

Taylor Paris (Former Barrie RFC/ Markham Irish)

Favourite App - The Chive, I Chive every night. There are great photo albums and its a great way to kill time. I’ve been playing a lot of darts on my iPad. It’s really mindless and kills a lot of time. And also Risk. (The App version of the Board Game.) Favourite Venue: Probably Wellington, NZ - The Cake Tin or Hong Kong. Wellington’s atmosphere is just crazy, the fans are crazy - but Hong Kong is the same though!

2013 RUGBY CANADA EVENTS CALENDAR

PRESENTED BY

MONTH

EVENT

LOCATION

VENUE

May

Pacific Nations Cup Kick Off Dinner

Edmonton, AB

Shaw Conference Centre

Pacific Nations Cup: CANADA VS USA

Edmonton, AB

Ellerslie Rugby Park

Pacific Nations Cup: CANADA VS FIJI

Ottawa, ON

Twin Elm Rugby Park

Pacific Nations Cup: CANADA VS TONGA

Kingston, ON

Richardson Stadium

Men of the Match Gala

Toronto, ON

Arcadian Court

CANADA VS IRELAND

Toronto, ON

BMO Field

National Women's League Finals

Vancouver, BC

University of British Columbia

National Women's League Finals

Vancouver, BC

University of British Columbia

National Women's League Finals

Vancouver, BC

University of British Columbia

Playersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Championship Golf Tournament

Victoria, BC

Olympic View Golf Club

17 - 21

Canadian Rugby Championship (U19 Men)

Calgary, AB

Calgary Rugby Park

7 - 11

National Championship Festival (U16/U18)

Vancouver, BC

University of British Columbia

Canadian Rugby Championship: BC VS PRAIRIE

Vancouver, BC

University of British Columbia

Canadian Rugby Championship: ONTARIO VS ATLANTIC

Ontario

TBA

Rugby World Cup Qualifier: CANADA VS USA

Charlotte, SC

Blackbaud Stadium

Rugby World Cup Qualifier Luncheon

Toronto, ON

TBA

Rugby Word Cup Qualifier: CANADA VS USA

Toronto, ON

BMO Field

Canadian Rugby Championship: ATLANTIC VS PRAIRIE

St. John's, NL

Swiler's Rugby Complex

Canadian Rugby Championship: BC VS ONTARIO

Langford, BC

Westhills Stadium

Canadian Rugby Championship: PRAIRIE VS ATLANTIC

Calgary, AB

Calgary Rugby Park

Canadian Rugby Championship: PRAIRIE VS ONTARIO

Calgary, AB

Calgary Rugby Park

Canadian Rugby Championship: BC VS ATLANTIC

Langford, BC

Westhills Stadium

Canadian Rugby Championship: ONTARIO VS BC

Ontario

TBA

June

July

August

September

October

November

Canadian Rugby Championship: ATLANTIC VS ONTARIO

St. John's, NL

Swiler's Rugby Complex

Canadian Rugby Championship: PRAIRIE VS BC

Edmonton, AB

Ellerslie Rugby Park

Americas Rugby Championship: GAME DAY 1

Langford, BC

Westhills Stadium

Americas Rugby Championship: GAME DAY 2

Langford, BC

Westhills Stadium

Americas Rugby Championship: GAME DAY 3

Langford, BC

Westhills Stadium

CANADA VS MAORI ALL BLACKS

Toronto, ON

BMO Field

socially speaking who is sayin’ what on the web and the twitterverse

PRESENTED BY

TWITTERVERSE Follow us @RUGBYCANADA

Colleen kirkpatrick Go Jason go!!!!! !!!! he is such an amazing kid good job patty. graham russel Well done, ladies... it made for an awesome [very late] night of viewing. Can’t wait til Holland! daniel warren Taylor Paris! The boys from u of c r rooting u guys on! See u again next time we’re in glasgow! Chris blackman Great win for a hard-working team! Mike Cook Way to go Nate. I remember coaching you at 14 with Richmond.

Canada Team - Circa 1962

WIN A RUGBY CANADA PRIZE PACK! Canada toured for the first time in 30 years in 1962 taking on a Barbarian side, 3-3 (a try each back then) and an 8-0 loss to a Wales U23 squad on December 1st, 1962. It was the emergence of Canadian rugby after the war and the lack of organization saw Canadian rugby in the hinterlands of the international game. So RUGBYca readers, can you identify the players in this photo? Hey, we aren’t completely unreasonable, so we are going to give you the answer - you just have to find it amongst these other great

They said it

Canadian names. Tom Bourne, Don Burgess, Barrie Burnham, Mike Chambers, Luean Edwards, John Lecky, Peter Frize, Bill Granleese, Peter Grantham, Ted Hunt, T.K. Kariya, Bob McKee, Buzz Moore, John Newton, George Puil, Jim Ryan, Barry Stubbs, David Ure, Tony Woller, James Ward, Gerhardus Wessels, Brian Williams, Bert Wyatt. Visit RUGBY.ca and click on the photo of the team to enter your guess and win a Rugby Canada prize pack - a jersey and hat worth over $150!

“I’m having a great time, playing some good rugby and trying to keep it going because it’s been awesome.” Hubert Buydens (Saskatoon Wild Oats) Canada Prop playing rugby in Taranaki, New Zealand for New Plymouth Old Boys

“That jersey looked pretty big on Warburton. Think it might have been pre sized for O’Connell before a last minute mind change.” Jebb Sinclair (Fredericton Loyalists) Following British and Irish Lions announcement

Jason MArshall First day of school #throwbackthursday pic.twitter.com/9VaSiooM9h

Mike Scholz Two happy #habs fans after last nights win! @CanadiensMTL pic.twitter.com /6X9wPy9J15

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WE ARE READY

PRESENTED BY

SUMMER

This summer is going to be a fanastic display of international rugby

WE ARE READY

PREVIEW

across Canada.

By Jeff Hull PHOTOS By JOSÉ LAGMAN & COLIN WATSON

HomeTown Heroes James Pritchard congratulates Aaron Carpenter as teammates (L-R) Hubert Buydens, Tyler Ardron and Chauncey O’Toole look on. Canada beat the USA 28-25 last June in Kingston.

WE ARE READY

hen Sean White, Canada’s current first-choice scrum-half, got the call to say he was being sent across the world to join the Canterbury Crusaders camp in New Zealand, he knew the kind of opportunity he was being handed, and what the intent behind it was.

He was not alone.

The Pacific Nations Cup

Canadian front-row forwards Ryan Hamilton and Hubert Buydens have each completed their own stints in New Zealand, taking part in high performance training and preparation in advance of the largest summer schedule Canada’s national senior men’s team has undertaken in modern times. White’s assignment comes as part of a concerted effort to ready the Canadian squad’s domestic talent for an exceptional summer of rugby action, in which they will play no less than seven international games against five different opponents. The half-back from British Columbia recently spoke about his new opportunity and the busy summer schedule. “With all of the games we’re set to play this year there’s no better time than now to step forward as a team, and I think this summer is really important for us. Every tour, myself and Coach Crowley have talks about how long it takes me to get involved at half-back. Usually, my first game is a little shaky, so this four-week training stint is exactly what I need going into the Pacific Nations Cup.”

The newly expanded Pacific Nations Cup (PNC) is exactly the kind of competition that Canada’s management has been hoping for. The addition of its four round-robin fixtures more than doubles the amount of quality matches Canada’s men will have the opportunity to play in the summer months. The new version of the PNC kicked off on May 25th at Edmonton’s Ellerslie Rugby Park. There, on the site of Canada’s big 2009 World Cup Qualifying win over the USA, Canada’s national senior men’s team will once again take on their American rivals. The Edmonton fixture will be the first opportunity Canada’s management will have had to assemble their squad since their November tour, in 2012. The match against the Americans comes just as the professional season in Europe is drawing to a close, making it the perfect opportunity to many of the country’s top domestic players to raise their hands for selection. Players such as White, Tyler Ardron, Conor Trainor and Chauncey O’Toole

Canada is currently ranked 14th in the world, and will be expecting a strong performance at home. winners Former Canadian Captain Pat Riordan hoisted the Can Am Trophy at BMO Field in August 2011 after defeating the USA 28-22.

2013 Rugby Summer Series

1 CANADA vs USA

Saturday, May 25 Edmonton, AB

2 CANADA vs FIJI

Wednesday, June 5 Ottawa, ON

3 CANADA vs TONGA

Saturday, June 8 Kingston, ON

4 CANADA vs IRELAND

Saturday, June 15 Toronto, ON

5 CANADA vs USA

Saturday, August 24 Toronto, ON

WE ARE READY

HEAD-TO-HEAD ALL TIME

Pacific Nations Cup Rugby Hosts Kingston also hosted Ireland and the USA at the 2008 Churchill Cup.

Fiji vs Canada

All Time Canada Won 2 Lost 6 Best Result Canada 22 Fiji 10 – Nadi, Fiji - April 8, 1995 Biggest Loss Canada 11 Fiji 42 – Apia, Fiji - July 7, 2000 Top Scorer Gareth Rees 38 pts

Tonga vs Canada

All Time Canada Won 4 Lost 2 Best Result Canada 37 Tonga 4 – Napier, NZ, May 24, 1987 Biggest Loss Canada 14 Tonga 40 – Van., BC, Oct. 25, 1974 Top Scorer James Pritchard, Bob Ross 12 pts each

USA vs Canada will no doubt be seeking to stake their claim, as many of Canada’s professionals begin to return from duty overseas. Canada is currently ranked 14th in the world, and will be expecting a strong performance at home against the 16th ranked Americans. From there, the scene shifted East to Ottawa where, on June 5th, Canada hosted the second of its five summer home games against Fiji at Twin Elm Rugby Park. Avid fans will remember Canada’s heartbreaking loss to the Fijians at the 2007 World Cup in France. The PNC tournament will now allow Canada and the United States greater access to competition against the Pacific Island nations. At present, only one tenth of one IRB rankings point separates Canada from the 13th ranked Fijians. A victory in the Ottawa match-up would allow Canada to begin to claw their way back towards the world’s top-12. Fiji is known for their expansive brand of rugby and physicality; two qualities that Canada’s management have been trying to instill in their own program, as they build towards the 2015 Rugby World Cup in London, England. Canadian speedsters, like Glasgow Warriors’ wing DTH Van der Merwe will stand alongside hulking forwards such as Jebb Sinclair of the London Irish, as Canada attempts to match the pace and power of their opponents in front of what is sure to be an enthusiastic crowd in Ottawa. Canada’s stars will not have far to travel for their next fixture, which will take place just a short distance down the 401 highway, where, on June 8th, Kingston will host the season’s third PNC fixture versus Tonga. There is sure to be no love lost between these two sides who faced each other during the 2011 World Cup, in New Zealand. Canada won that contest only to be denied third place in their pool by a shocking Tongan upset over France later in the tournament.

For the second, but not the last time this summer, Canada will face-off against a higher ranked opponent, Tonga, who currently sit 11th in the IRB Standings, and a victory for Canada in Kingston would do much to improve Canada’s chances of breaching the top-12. The final stage of the 2013 Pacific Nations Cup sees the Canadians take a break from the comforts of home, to compete against Japan. The two countries have fought each other to a draw at both the 2007 and 2011 World Cups and both will surely be looking to end their PNC campaigns on a winning note. That contest is set to take place June 19th.

The Battle At BMO Anyone who has attended one of the international rugby fixtures held at Toronto’s BMO Field over the past several years knows the quality of the experience. It has become the premier domestic venue at which to watch Canada’s national senior men in action, and 2013 will be no exception.

All Time Canada Won 35 Lost 12 Draw 1 Best Result Canada 56 USA 7 – St. John’s, NF, Aug.12, 2006 Biggest Loss Canada 20 USA 35 – Buenos Aires, Aug. 27, 2003 Top Scorer James Pritchard 147 pts

Japan vs Canada

All Time Canada Won 8 Lost 11 Draws 2 Best Result Canada 62 Japan 18 – Markham, ON, July 15, 2000 Biggest Loss Canada 8 Japan 46 – Miyagi, Japan, Nov.15, 2009 Top Scorer Bob Ross 91 pts

Canada vs Ireland

All Time Canada Won 0 Lost 5 Draw 1 Best Result Ireland 27 Canada 27 Markham, ON - June 17, 2000 Biggest Loss Canada 0 Ireland 55 – Limerick, Ireland - Nov. 8, 2008 Top Scorer Gareth Rees, Mark Wyatt 21 pts each

USA vs Canada

Rugby World Cup Qualifiers All Time Canada Won 6 Lost 2 Best Result Canada 56 USA 7 – St. John’s, NF, Aug. 12, 2006 Biggest Loss Canada 6 USA 12 – Charleston, SC, July 4, 2009 Top Scorer Single Game: James Pritchard 36 pts

New Zealand Maori vs Canada

T-Dot Advantage Adam Kleeberger looks on as Tyler Hotson falls on the ball vs the USA.

All Time Canada Won 0 Lost 3 Best Result Canada 19 New Zealand Maori 32 Iffley Road, Oxford, England – Friday, Nov. 23, 2012 19

WE ARE READY In September 2012, the International Rugby Board released a strategic schedule that promised ambitious rugby nations like Canada, an annual match-up against top-ranked opposition. This year, it is the Irish who will travel to Canada to test themselves in the Battle at BMO. Despite nine Irish players being named to the British and Irish Lions tour to Australia, under caretaker coach Les Kiss, Ireland will bring a seasoned squad to North America. New coach Joe Schmidt, who replaces Declan Kidney, takes over in November. Ireland brings one of the world’s compelling brands of attacking rugby, giving Canada a chance to test themselves against one of the sport’s very best. For those unable to attend the clash in person, the game will be broadcast live on TSN, who will partner to show Canada’s first clash at BMO Field against the Irish, as well as the two Rugby World Cup qualifiers that will close out Canada’s historic summer of rugby.

The Road To The World Cup While the Canadians take most of the month of July to rest, recover and regroup, they will do so knowing that a huge opportunity awaits them in August. Saturday, August 17th will see the Canadian team assemble once again to take part in the first of two qualifying games for the 2015 Rugby World Cup. Once again Canada’s opponents will be their arch rivals from the United States. The first stop will be Charleston, South Carolina, where the USA defeated Canada in the first-half of the qualifiers for the 2007 World Cup. Canada will look for a better performance this time, knowing that they will have the opportunity to claim the series in front of a Canadian rugby fans. On August 24th, Canada will play their final match of the

Proud supporter of Rugby Canada

Ireland bring with them one of the world’s premier brands of attacking rugby, giving Canada a chance to test themselves against one of the sport’s very best.

Young Guns 21-year-old Tyler Ardron (Brantford Harelquins), passes vs the USA as Jebb Sinclair (London Irish) looks on.

summer, and their second at Toronto’s BMO Field, as they attempt to claim a World Cup qualifying berth in front of a massive home crowd. What better way to finish off one of the most exciting seasons in Canadian rugby history? Whether it be individual players striving to lock down their roster spots, the battle for IRB rankings points or a spot in the 2015 Rugby World Cup, this summer’s action will have a huge impact on the Canadian rugby scene. Make sure you are in attendance to catch, what is sure to be, some of the most entertaining rugby action ever to grace Canadian soil.

I N T E R N A T I O N A L

R U G B Y

WATCH IT LIVE!

8PM

SATURDAY, JUNE 15, 2013

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Kick Off: 8pm

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coach

CFL COMBINE Scouting football for potential rugby prospects By Chris Perrotte in toronto

Carl-Oliver Prime A linebacker from Wagner College was among 80 players at the 2013 CFL Combine.

-10

To watch the video, scan the code or visit youtube.com/ watch?v =M2Cs8ZfF3uw

-20

-30

-40

PRESENTED BY

coach

MIKE SHELLEY

Dell is one of the top 51 Canadian university prospects invited to the CFL Combine in Toronto from March 22nd – 24th. The fullback from Wilfrid Laurier University came to showcase his skills on the gridiron, however, he won’t rule out utilizing his talents for the rugby pitch. “I actually started playing rugby before I played football,” said Dell. “It’s definitely a sport I can see myself continuing if football doesn’t work or even as pastime leisure.” “The sport [rugby] is a little easier to continue than football. It’s more organized with more locations, so it’s definitely something I can see myself playing if football didn’t work out.” To play for Rugby Canada would also mean a chance to compete in the 2015 Pan Am Games here in Toronto or in the 2016 Olympics in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. An opportunity to play for your country on the

grandest stage for sports doesn’t come by too often. “Olympics is probably the highest competition for an athlete that you could possibly participate in,” said Dell. “That would be an honour representing a country and competing for a gold medal on an international standard. That would be extremely exciting.” Mike Klassen, another CFL prospect, when asked about playing rugby in the Olympics versus the CFL, was also interested in the prospect. “The only difference would be the money. Rugby and football are pretty similar sports except for the padding aspect, said Klassen, a defensive lineman from the University of Calgary. “I think it would be fun to play rugby as an Olympic sport.” The 2013 CFL Combine gave 51 players in attendance a chance to show the coaches, general managers and scouts, that they have what it

Photo by Colin Watson

The scouts Rugby Canada’s Steve Lancaster (L) and Mike Shelley track the talent on display.

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takes to reach the next level. Among them included coaches from Rugby Canada who were looking for certain attributes that would make the ideal rugby player. “We have a certain criteria in positions that players lend themselves to better,” said Mike Shelley, current National Academy Manager. “Taller guys are locks, shorter stronger guys are props. So we’re looking at that from a physical perspective.” “Specific things we’re seeing here that obviously don’t transfer straight away but we can see the character [in the player] that it takes to compete at a high level in any sport.” For the first time, Rugby 7’s will appear at the Olympic Games starting 2016 in Rio. Teams of seven players compete in a fast-paced and exciting variation of traditional rugby. This game requires both speed, skill, and strength and is played on a regular size field. With an exhilarating game on the Olympic horizon, the question is, can Rugby Canada entice a player who might not make it to the CFL to join them in the quest for a gold medal. Offensive Lineman, Brett Jones from the University of Regina Rams can definitely see himself giving up the football pads to become a rugby player. “Rugby is a cool physical sport and it’s built for athletes from what I’ve seen,” said Jones. “Definitely the athletes are the guys that excel and there are a lot of big bodies out there. I think maybe I could fit in, just lose some weight. I think I’m athletic enough that I might be able to play.” Although the ultimate goal when we spoke with these athletes was to play pro football, it is good for them to have an alternative plan to fall back on. “These guys are here because they want to play in the CFL but the

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The hopefuls Shelley and Lancaster watched for physicality, speed and ball skills. Photo by Colin Watson

Taller guys are locks, shorter stronger guys are props. So we’re looking at that from a physical perspective.

reality is that there are some great athletes that won’t get to play in the CFL,” said Steve Lancaster, Director of High Performance for Rugby Canada. “From a rugby perspective, if we can attract some good athletes to the game, we have the environment now at the Center of Excellence where we can develop them into good rugby players and we believe we can do that pretty quickly.” “For sure there are a number of guys here at the end of this draft process potentially facing the end of their sporting careers at a competitive level and rugby can offer them the opportunity to continue to have a high sporting career and potentially chase the Olympic dream.” Players who may choose to play rugby for Canada will get a chance to do what has never been done before, to bring home a medal. Canada has never participated in Olympic rugby from its inception at the 1900 Summer Games to its departure in the 1924 Olympics. That prospect of making Olympic history can be very enticing. When the NFL and CFL drafts are all said and done, when every scout, coach and general manager has made their picks, all these prospects want one thing, to be able to compete at the highest level possible. If Rugby Canada can provide them with that opportunity, then you have an athlete that will be proud to don the Canadian colours.

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FEATURE PRESENTED BY

Can

2013

CANADIAN RUGBY CHAMPIONSHIP

nadian Rugby

hampion ship

League sponsor

Can the Ontario Blues Three-Peat? By andrew smith in vancouver Photos By José Lagman

the escape Ontario’s John Moonlight (James Bay AA/Ajax Wanderers) a big part of the Blues team as a would be Wolf Pack tackler found out in 2012.

he road to the 2013 MacTier Cup gets underway in Vancouver on August 10th with British Columbia hosting the Prairie Wolf Pack in the official kick off of the fifth annual Canadian Rugby Championship. The two sides will open the senior men’s elite level domestic competition in front of the future of Canadian rugby, scrumming down at UBC’s Wolfson Fields as a highlight event during the Age Grade Rugby Canada National Festival Championships. The following week sees two-time defending MacTier Cup champions Ontario Blues host their Eastern rivals Atlantic Rock on August 17th. The Blues are already in the midst of preparations for a rare three-peat, holding fundraisers across the province as well as announcing an ambitious exhibition schedule with fixtures against New York Athletic Club (May 4th) and Life University (August 23rd). While the four sides will be battling for national pride, the tournament will also once again serve as a key scouting ground for Canada’s senior men’s national team selectors. The seven week competition will serve as the initial identification step in the pathway to forming Canada’s entry at the 2013 America’s Rugby Championship, recently confirmed to be returning to Langford’s Westhills Stadium on Vancouver Island. With the pathway in place, many of the country’s rising stars will look to continue their rise up their ranks with the 2015 Rugby World Cup just over two years away. 25

CANADIAN RUGBY CHAMPIONSHIP

BRITISH COLUMBIA

PRAIRIE WOLF PACK

(Alberta/ Saskatchewan/ Manitoba)

2012 Record (as Pacific Tyee): 1-4 (4th) Best Finish: 2009 Champions

2012 Record: 3-2 (2nd) Best Finish: 2nd Place 2010

www.bcrugby.com twitter.com/bcrugbyunion

www.wolfpackrugby.com twitter.com/wolfpackrugby Canadian Western Bank Group

Inaugural CRC winners British Columbia return to the fold this year, having been represented in the 2012 competition by the Pacific Tyee. The program will draw on fan support from both the Lower Mainland and Vancouver Island as they split their home venues between Vancouver and Victoria this summer. If available to BC coaching staff, on any given weekend their roster could feature Canada national team players: Nathan Hirayama, Sean Duke, Harry Jones, Sean White, Thyssen De Goede, Conor Trainor and Michael Fuailefau. If those players are seconded for national team duties, a new wave of younger stars will be waiting in the flanks. BC selectors will have a slew of young talent at the Under-23 level to draw from, including National University Sevens Player of the Year Pat Kay of Cowichan and Chilliwack’s Canada-A capped forward Aaron Flagg. Both have performed at the club level during the 2012-13 season and were key members of their Subunion rep sides in the revival of the storied McKechnie Cup competition this past winter. A number of Canadian Direct Insurance Premier League All Stars could also be in the mix if available and BC could benefit from the fire power of league-leading try scorers Beau Parker and Admir Cejvanovic, both graduates of the Canada U20 national program. Along with Cejvanovic, Burnaby Lake Rugby Club representatives in the mix include forwards Micha Govorchin and Benoit PIffero who are already on national team selectors’ radars.

A new year brings a new direction for the Praire Wolf Pack, the only team still yet to lift the MacTier Cup since the CRC was created in 2009. Heading up the program this year will be Graeme Moffat, recently promoted from assistant coach to his new role as Director of Rugby. A two-time provincial champion coach with club side Calgary Hornets, Moffat takes over from Australian coach Col Jeffs who led the Wolf Pack to back-to-back runner up finishes in the national competition. The move was part of a long term restructuring plan for the region as they look to align themselves with the junior and development programs. “We are the only team to have not won the CRC title and we have a very ambitious coaching staff in place,” said Wolf Pack director Ryan Smith. “Graeme has gone from working as an assistant to head coach and we are looking forward to great things.” The Prairies will most likely be without the services of Hubert Buydens and Andrew Tidemann this season, as the World Cup front row standouts are pursuing contracts in New Zealand and France, respectively. When available, the squad will benefit from the leadership of Canada Sevens speedsters Nanyak Dala and Jeff Hassler and also welcome the return of Scott Franklin who has spent the winter honing his skills in BC. National team centre Nick Blevins has also kept in game shape with Vancouver-based UBC Old Boy Ravens and will be joined at the Wolf Pack this year by Edmonton’s Brodie Henderson as well as U20 graduate Thomas Roche. Fans in the Alberta capital region will get to see Henderson and the Wolf Pack in action this summer when Ellerslie Rugby Park plays host to a CRC matchup against BC on September 21st, the first in recent years to be staged outside of Calgary. “We don’t want the program to be Calgary-centric and it’s a great move for us to hold our last game in Edmonton,” added Smith. “There is a great organizing crew there who know how to run an event - the same group that will be helping Rugby Canada stage the upcoming Test match against the US.” ready to howl The Wolf Pack front row - anchored by St. Albert’s Andrew Tiedemann, will once again be a force in the West.

precision James Bay’s Connor Braid will provide plenty of points with his precise goal kicking.

2013 Canadian Rugby Championship schedule Saturday, August 10, 2013 Praire Wolf Pack at British Columbia

Saturday, August 17, 2013 Atlantic Rock at Ontario Blues

Saturday, August 24, 2013 Prairie Wolf Pack at Atlantic Rock

Friday, August 30, 2013 Ontario Blues at British Columbia Atlantic Rock at Prairie Wolf Pack

Monday, September 2, 2013 Ontario Blues at Prairie Wolf Pack Atlantic Rock at British Columbia

Saturday, Sept 14, 2013 British Columbia at Ontario Blues

Saturday, September 21, 2013 Ontario Blues at Atlantic Rock British Columbia at Prairie Wolf Pack British Columbia at Ontario Blues

CANADIAN RUGBY CHAMPIONSHIP

ONTARIO BLUES

ATLANTIC ROCK

(Quebec/ Nova Scotia/ New Brunswick / Newfoundland and Labrador)

2012 Record: 1st (4-1) Best Finish: 2011 - 2012 Champions MacTier Cups: 2012, 2011 Non-CRC Fixtures: New York Athletic Club (May 4th), Life University (Aug 23rd)

2012 Record: 2-3 (3rd) Best Finish: 2010 Champions Pre-season fixtures: Atlantic Trial (June 15), vs Newfoundland (July 13), vs Wolfhounds (Aug 3)

www.rugbyontario.com twitter.com/RugbyOntario

www.rockrugby.ca twitter.com/therockrugby

Defending champs Ontario Blues have had back-to-back seasons with just a single loss and with a pipeline of formidable junior talent, should be in prime position to lift their third straight senior men’s national title. The core of last year’s championship team returns with Dan West confirmed as the only departure heading into the summer. Dan’s roster spot could likely be filled by brother Jon who graduates from the Canada Under-20 program this season. “Every year we seem to lose key guys to injury or contracts but every year we find young guys ready to step up,” said Blues Manager Mark Winokur. “This year will be no different. We know the other teams have improved and obviously will be out to knock us off. It’s way harder to stay on top once you’ve got there, but we look forward to the challenge.” Key additions to bolster the Blues include Canada U20 grads Andrew Ferguson at half back and Jake Rumball re-enforcing the front row. The Blues will also look to benefit from the return of Mike Scholz, Mark Macsween, Haddon Murray and Mike Pletch as all four sat out 2012 with injuries. The program will also be looking to capitalize on elite caliber players like Ray Barkwill, a standout in last year’s CRC team that went on to play for Canada-A and was capped in November during Canada’s Fall Tour. “The program has developed an outstanding culture and we need to keep building on that and spreading the message,” Winokur added.

The Parfrey legacy lives on in the Atlantic region and head coach Pat Sr will be back for another year at the helm of the Rock program. Joining him in the region’s pursuit of their first national title since 2010 are sons Kevin, Owen and Patrick. Both Owen and Canada U20 graduate Patrick impressed selectors last year and were called upon to represent Canada-A during the ARC in Langford. Along with the Parfrey brothers, a number of returning players also suited up for Canada-A including Toni Wodzicki, prop Bob Rogers and back-row Zac Coughlan. “Last year was a transition year from the great successful Rock team of the decade 2002-2011,” said head coach Pat Parfrey. “Our pack was stronger than anticipated but our defence was disappointing. In our five-year plan, year one was a transition year and 2013 a consolidation year. If our young players toughen up we will be competitive in a league characterized by parity.” The young players Parfrey refers to are graduates of their development program including props Steve Cutliffe and Keelan Chapman, Jordan Power at hooker, Mike Hamson and Jason Kukavica on the flanks. There is plenty of potential in the backs with Doug Crowe at half back and Bryce Thomassin, Patrick McNicholas, Kyle McGuirk, Alex Rogers and Walker Blizzard in the three-quarter line. Due to national team scheduling overlaps, the team’s depth will be tested this summer without stalwarts Chauncey O’Toole, Ciaran Hearn and Jon Phelan for lengthy stretches. The squad will have veteran leadership to rely on during the season, as World Cup vet Frank Walsh as well as Brad Lester, Dean Blanks and Geoff Warden return for another year.

champions Jamie Mackenzie(Oakville Crusaders) hopes to inject himself into the Blues lineup in 2013.

legacy lives on The Rock’s Patrick Parfrey (Swilers RFC) has made his presence felt at the Canadian team level.

FEATURE

james Pritchard

PRESENTED BY

JAMES PRITCHARD

TRACKING DOWN GARETH REES, CHASING WORLD CUP GLORY By PATRICK JOHNSTON photos by josé lagman

Eye on the Prize James Pritchard is within 29 points of setting a new Canadian record this summer

FEATURE

james Pritchard

I’m not blessed with the stepping skills or the speed that some of the boys have, but as long as I make my kicks, I know I have a chance to be in there.

A young fullback, from New South Wales, watches Canada lose to Australia. He knows his grandfather came from Saskatchewan, but he himself has never been to the Great White North. Maybe I can help, he thinks. If you are serious, come play a summer in Canada, the national coach says. That was James Pritchard, in the fall of 2002. At 23 years old, the speedster from Parkes, New South Wales was on his way to chase his Canadian rugby dream. A decade later, call it a success.

“It’s the reason I’ve had the

career that I’ve had,” Pritchard says of the fateful email he sent to then-Canadian coach David Clark. “I thought, ‘why not, I’ve got nothing to lose’…I figured I could be helpful.” It was a bold offer, but to be successful on the international stage, you need to be selfconfident. Pritchard also figures that’s how he’s managed to stay playing internationally for Canada and also for the Bedford Blues in England, even at the age of 33. Finding a good run of fitness in recent years has helped too. But that wasn’t the case after making his debut in the summer of 2003 and then playing in the World Cup in Australia. A string of injuries and

general bad luck, while he bounced from club-to-club, kept him out of the mix for Canada too. “I still kept in touch with the Canadian coaches, always making myself available, but I didn’t get called,” he said. But the hope remained, even as he bounced to Plymouth, to Perpignan and last to Northampton. The run-up to the 2007 Rugby World Cup saw his return. First there was the record-setting win in Barbados to mark his return to the Canadian lineup. Then there was the emphatic win in St. John’s over the USA to secure qualification. “We played immense that day,” Pritchard said. “And what an atmosphere.” Since then, even through

the difficulties of the 2007 world cup campaign and the subsequent change in coaches, he’s been a first-choice selection. For Kieran Crowley, Canada’s current coach, it’s always been an easy choice. “I saw a player who’s a very good professional,” said Crowley. “He takes outstanding care of his fitness and his well being.” “He has shown good performance under pressure. That’s from years of playing as a professional. He knows the outcomes, how vital things are,” he said. As a kicker, Pritchard’s rhythm is especially notable. “One, it’s just practice, but it’s also his technique – he’s got it down to a fine art,” said Crowley. “Mentally, you’ve got to have the ability to handle it when things don’t go well. Some days you are just kicking well and you just stick with it.” Pritchard doesn’t hesitate to agree that his boots are what has made him into a regular selection for Canada. “I’m not blessed with the stepping skills or the speed that some of the boys have, but as long as I make my kicks, I know I have a chance to be in there,” he said. Dreams of the big kick were there at an early age. “I grew up playing soccer when I was young, it was a natural progression. I always used to go up and practise kicking. I wasn’t allowed to play league until I was 12, but before that I was kicking, pretending I was kicking a match-winning goal.” Provided he’s healthy and is selected for the lineup – only

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FEATURE

Trying Times Pritchard has outdistanced Rees in one scoring category - tries 13 in total to Rees’ 7

HEAD-TO-HEAD

VS JAMES PRITCHARD

GARETH REES

Matches 47 2003- 2012 (46 as a starter)

Matches 55 1986 -1999 (54 as a starter)

Debut vs NZ Maori July 26, 2003

Debut vs USA Nov 8, 1986, Tucson, AZ

462 Pts 13 tries, 83 conversions 77 penalties Won 22 - Lost 23 - Draws 2

494 Pts 7 tries*, 51 conversions, 111 penalties, 9 DG Won 31- Lost 24 - Draws 0

Single Game Record 36 pts vs USA, St. John’s, NL 36 - 3 tries, 6 cons, 3 pens

Single Game Record 27 pts vs Namibia in Toulouse, Oct 14, 1999 9 cons, 3 pens

Most Tries in a Match 3 vs Barbados, June 24, 2006 3 vs USA, Aug 12, 2006 Most Kicks in a Match 9 vs USA Aug 12, 2006 6 cons, 3 pens (21 pts) 9 vs Spain Nov 13, 2010 7 cons, 2 pens (20 pts)

Most Tries in a match 2 vs Japan, Vancouver, BC June 14, 1997 Most Kicks in a match 12 vs Namibia in Toulouse Oct 14, 1999 9 cons, 3 pens (27 pts)

recovery from a broken arm seems likely to hinder that (Pritchard will likely break Gareth Rees’ all-time points record sometime this May or June). “I sit back and look at it – Gareth’s considered the greatest Canadian player of all time,” said Pritchard. “It’s a big honour; Kieran [Crowley] says ‘you’re the custodian of the jersey.” “I’ve never really thought about the points thing…when I started it was Bobby Ross and Jared Barker as the kicker, I was third choice,” he said. “I just had to do what I could to stay in the side.” Rees is sorry to see his record go, but couldn’t be happier it’s Pritchard who is passing him. “He’s a consummate pro – every time out, he shows up. He’s done his thing for Canada,” said Rees. “Test match rugby is incredibly hard…James has played in an era where it’s a more expansive game,” he said. “You’re not just a kicker anymore, you don’t get a professional contract that way.” “I always prided myself on my defense, I don’t like to say ‘I was just a kicker,’ he said. “Pritchard isn’t either.” Were he to go back to the start of his career, to tell himself where he might end up, even with the selfconfidence he’s always had, Pritchard thinks he’d be a touch surprised at where his original move to Bedford would end up leading him. “I thought I’d play some rugby and do some sightseeing,” he said. “It was a change – I’d grown up in New South Wales. I never really thought when I first started I’d be doing it [playing rugby] professionally.” Nor did he ever think he’d run up

against Christian Cullen in his first international game. “When I first started playing, I had no idea about rugby, he was the first guy I watched and learned from,” Pritchard recalls. “All of a sudden you’re playing against the guy you’ve tried to model your game on.” The sky remains the limit for the veteran fullback, who wants to play one last time at the world cup. It may be two years from now, but he says why not? “I’m feeling fitter, in some of the best shape of my life,” he said. “I’ve spent more time in Canada than I have in Australia since I left. It’s like a family. All the boys, we are tightknit.” How times have changed since that game in Calgary in the summer of 2003, against the New Zealand Maori - it was the tail-end of the squad that had brought so much fame to Canadian rugby in the 90s. The years that followed were tough: the poor performance at the 2007 world cup being the nadir. Now the Canadian team looks to have its swagger back. “[Kieran Crowley’s] brought a belief that we can win those games. He’s brought in that guys can think out there. In the past, a lot of it was ‘bang bang bang,’ this is how we do it,” Pritchard said. “We’re still learning how to think on our feet. That’s what happened against Samoa [in November] – everyone watched game footage, thinking this is how we’re going to play.” “They put 20 points on us and after that, we corrected the ship. If we’re able to correct those periods…”

World Cup Bound Again? Pritchard - seen kicking a penalty against the USA in Edmonton during the 2009 Qualifiers, could be going to his fourth World Cup if he stays on form this summer.

*2 x 4 pts tries

the vault PRESENTED BY

Gord MacKINNON He is 54 and still one of the most competitive guys you will ever meet By DOUG CROSSE Photos from RUGBY CANADA ARCHIVES

The force Gord Mackinnon was a stalwart in the Canadian backline from 1985 to 1995. Seen here in action against Ireland in 1986.

the vault

ord Mackinnon, former Canada sevens and fifteens player, former Mixed Martial Artist - before people knew what that meant, as of April 1st, former Vancouver firefighter, but current World Cross Fit champion. Hitting the rewind button, this wiry Ontario born flanker was once one of the most intense players on the pitch for Canada - in a career that spanned 1985 to 1995. Known for chasing the ball and causing havoc with the opposition, he was an early adopter of extreme fitness, never coming out of a game before full time. In a 28 game career, he was arguably Canada’s biggest impact player from the back row. It was the points he scored in Toulouse at the 1991 World Cup against Romania that qualified Canada for its one and only quarter-final berth, a moment he still regards as a personal highlight. “It was a try off of a scrum,” recalled Mackinnon from his Vancouver home. “Glenn (No. 8 Ennis) fed me and I got in over the line. It was great because at the time we were really enjoying [the World Cup experience] and it gave us another week in France.” The victory and subsequent tight matches against France to wrap up the pool rounds and New Zealand in the quarter-final, became hallmarks for Canadian toughness and ability on the rugby pitch. “We fell behind but won the second half against France,” he recounted. “We had already qualified - but a win would have put us in against England - a tall order but it could have happened.” Canada fell to France 19-13 that day and kept in close with the All Blacks for an hour, with Al Charron famously scoring a try to make the final twenty minutes captivating. It was a turning point in terms of recognition for the sport in Canada - with huge numbers of people watching the World Cup live on TSN for the first time. With it came something new - players being noticed on the streets of their hometowns in Canada. “You would be on the ferry or shopping, whatever, and people would come up and talk to you about watching on TV - that was all new,” said Mackinnon. Mackinnon missed the 1987 World Cup due to a knee injury and would have one more appearance at the 1995 World Cup in South Africa. Ultimately, despite tight defensive performances against Australia and South Africa, Canada did not advance to the Cup round and with that tour ending, so too did Mackinnon’s playing career - at age 37. He freely admits that, if he had played ten years later, he might have had a completely different impact on the game. “I would have loved to have picked up a couple of

pro contracts and all the things that improved with professionalism starting in 1995; the training, the fitness, the coaching, it would have been amazing.” Mackinnon also freely admits that playing for Canada in the 1980s and 1990s was a different responsibility than what players go through now. “We had a good time off the field for sure, but guys now, it is all serious and it has to be, with contracts and everything on the line,” he says. In 1997, with two years of rugby retirement under his belt, he was asked to fill in for a MMA fighter in a bout on Vancouver Island. Brazilian jujitsu, grappling and raining blows on a prone opponent were all new to the sporting public, but in his one and only fight, Mackinnon scored a knock-out. While he got the result, it was not a sport he embraced. It was too stressful,” he offers. “I just did it because the young guys at the club asked me. “They had some guy and they needed to fill a spot. The opponent changed three or four times. First it was a black belt in Brazilian jujitsu and then other disciplines, so you had to adjust your skills and that helped the fitness.” Which ultimately led him into the world of Crossfit. A competition that has extremely fit athletes competing in various forms of fitness – from deadlifts, to situps, pushups and pull-ups, it is not a sport for the faint of heart. Mackinnon had done some Firefighter challenges and done well but it was a video shown to him by In 1997, partner Karen that got him hooked. with two “It was a video of the Nasty Girls, they years of were so fit and doing these unbelievable routines. I started doing workouts off rugby retirement the website and I was hooked.” He has won the Crossfit Masters the under his past two years and has qualified to go belt, he was for a potential three-peat in Los Angeles asked to fill this July. in for a MMA “I found after winning the Games two years in a row that I am more motivated fighter in than ever because the competition is a bout on getting tougher,” he said on the Crossfit Vancouver website. Island. Whether it is hunting big horn sheep, Mackinnon or prawning and fishing at his Vancouver Island camp, even a retired Gord scored a will want to bag the biggest knock-out. Mackinnon prize or haul in the most fish. It is how he is wired and what made him such a great competitor for Canada on the pitch.

Gord Mackinnon

Fast Facts

Full Name Gordon I. MacKinnon Born August 27, 1958, Glasgow (Age 54) Appearances for Canada 28 Points 18 (Two 4pt tries - Two 5pt tries) Debut vs USA, Vancouver, 1985 Final Game vs South Africa, 1995 Kids Son, Tanner (19) Daughter, Lauren (21) Partner Karen, 11 years

heavy lifting Gord works out every day

Come enjoy Canada’s other great test match

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2013-05-03 12:02 PM

youth sevens

PRESENTED BY Canadian Western Bank Group

A SIMPLE

PLAN

If Canada is going to enjoy Sevens success in the 2016 Olympics, the British Columbia Youth Sevens Program is looking for the next generation. BY DOUG CROSSE

now runs multiple age grades to keep the flow of new talent pouring through the various development cycles. “It’s a big job for sure,” Thompson follows with a light chuckle over the phone from his Victoria home. “There is always something to do, whether it is a clinic, games to go see, running teams, tours, it’s been busy, but really great to be a part of.” And success has followed Thompson with his charges winning back to back tournaments in Hong Kong in 2012 and 2013 and also claiming hardware at the Las the graduate Vegas Sevens. Justin Douglas But Thompson points (Kelowna RFC) is a to another achievement graduate of the BC 7s program as the real juice to the program. The ascendancy of19-year-oldJustinDouglas of Abbotsford, BC to the Canadian men’s Sevens IRB

It was just after the heady news that sevens rugby would be in the 2016 Olympics - nearly four years ago now, that Kevin Mahon, a Vancouver business man and former rugby player had an epiphany. If Canada were to enjoy success in Rio de Janeiro, work would have to start right away to find, train and develop the next generation of sevens players. Mahon and University of Victoria coach Doug Tate played together at the University of British Columbia and at an alumni event the duo created a five year plan. Working with business associates and creating a foundation, Kevin and his group began operating the BC Youth Sevens program. The concept was simple. A coach would lead the program, scouring BC high schools and clubs, holding camps, evaluating talent, eventually getting things narrowed down to a talented group of individuals that would compete both domestically and internationally. Working in concert with the BC Rugby Union, the program, which is just starting its fourth year, has been an undeniable success. At the helm is Shane Thompson, who has a lot of experience with sevens to bring to the table. A member of the Canadian sevens team from 1999 to 2005, and then a coach of the program for another four years, Thompson has ‘been there, done that’ resume that cannot be argued with. Starting off with a U16 program at the program’s inception, Thompson

youth sevens

TEAMWORK Members of the BC Youth 7s team pose with the Canadian men’s team in Hong Kong ealier this year.

team participating in the 2012/2013 “Shane fills out a lot of reports, IRB World Series tour. and we do a lot of planning and “Having [Justin] get into the then review what has worked team was the big pay-off,” says and what hasn’t, but so far he has Thompson. “Look, I am realistic done a great job,” says Mahon of I am still and I know he would have made his eager program director. “What it there eventually, but I think our overwhelmed I want to see is people borrowing involvement helped make that by how much our blueprint across the country happen faster.” and duplicating what we are support we The program offers the obvious doing - so we are developing get for the things, such as structured players everywhere.” program, training on and off the field, He is complimentary of a competition, but also the not so province like Ontario that is whatever we obvious benefits from things like making the trip out with a team need there is touring to a place like Hong Kong. for the Victoria tournament. He someone there “Not everyone is cut out to believes it’s that kind of effort willing to be an athlete that can handle a that will really start creating a help twenty hour flight, combat the movement across the country jet lag and get out there and be in the junior ranks. At the recent at peak performance in just a few Rugby Canada Annual General days,” says Thompson, who has Meeting, Mahon presented to the criss-crossed the globe probably a provinces in attendance what his dozen times over the years. “That program was doing and issued Shane Thompson is when you tell a kid he needs to a challenge for other provinces stay hydrated and not have ten to start similar programs and cokes on the flight.” get players playing the game at a “I am still overwhelmed by higher level. how much support we get for The long term goal for the program, whether it is getting Thompson is to begin to use his a field to use for no charge, or coaching certification to train coaches helping out - whatever other coaches on a regional we need, it seems there is someone basis and build his provincial there willing to help,” he says. network so that more players The players pay to belong can be evaluated and worked to the program, but things like with. While he is keeping an eye travel and related costs are on the prize of possibly having subsidized so that no player is some of his program graduates left behind because of socioplaying for Canada at the 2016 economic reasons. Olympics, he also feels the 2020 Mahon is a huge fan of Thompson’s, but is games are a more likely target to fully realize quick to point out the program is not a charity the impact his young players might have and that it is run like a business. long term.

PRESENTED BY

COACHâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s PLAYBOOK

By dustin hopkins

Support Touch

Objective Spatial awareness, Communication, Decision making, Attacking skills into space Equipment Balls 1 Cones 4 Shields N/A

Bags N/A Suits N/A Bibs N/A

Drill Requirements

Area 30x30 grid Players All Time 20mins

30m

description

: When an attacking player is touched, he must immediately scoop the ball through his legs : If a supporting player does not catch the ball before it hits the ground, it is turn over ball

Key Coaching Points

Change of speed and direction to beat defenders Supporting players attack the ball (usually the man who last passed the ball i.e. pass and support) Emphasis on getting behind the defence and producing quick ball Attack/support at pace Communication between ball carrier and supporting players

Relevance to the game

30m

Highlights the importance of the supporting players to the ball carrier. It encourages players to attack the ball at pace and get close to the ball carrier in case contact finds the attacker. It also promotes the importance of possession and team continuity enabling you to score.

Ball retention

Breakout

Objective Spatial awareness, Communication, Decision making, Attacking space, Conditioning Equipment Balls 4+ Cones 10 Shields N/A

Bags 1 Suits N/A Bibs N/A

Drill Requirements

Area 12x12 and 10x10 grid Players All 20mins Time

description

: Defenders can only stay in the channel between the outside and inside grid : Defenders initially start one per side, however can move around the outside to help another defender if in trouble : Aim for the three attackers is to score as many tries outside the largest square as they can during an allotted time without being tagged by a defender : If an attacker is tagged, they must attack a different side of the grid : After a try, the try scorer must quickly re-enter the smaller grid and initiate another attack towards the other side of the grid. : Can bring a ball or two balls in to add a decision making process.

Key Coaching Points

Attack and defence working of the ball Vision, ball handling and passing Defensive lateral movement Communication, anticipation and reaction Footwork and evasion Change of speed and direction can beat a defender. 36

Relevance to the game

Good to lead on to a footwork and evasion session. Defenders must communicate and ask for help. Attackers making space. Decisions on when to pass if a player has found space and lost a defender.

12m 10m

12m

10m

fundraising

Support your rugby community

RUGBY CANADA ANNUAL

AWARDS DINNER april 13, 2013 | Victoria, BC

PHOTOS BY Judy teasdale

Award Winners

SPONSORED BY

2012 Player of the Year Men’s 15s: Tyler Ardron Men’s 7s: John Moonlight Women’s 15s: Maria (Jaworski) Samson Women’s 7s: Jen Kish 2012 Young Player of the Year Female: Bianca Farella Male: Lucas Hammond

Rugby Canada CEO Graham Brown addresses the crowd.

Rugby Canada Board Member & Awards Chairperson Keith Gillam.

2012 Coach of the Year Female: Jen Ross Male: Chris Silverthorn

CBRE

2012 Match Official of the Year Andrew McMaster 2012 Provincial Union Award Federation de Rugby du Quebec 2012 Volunteer of the Year Dean Kittleson 2012 Canadian Shield Award Hubert Buydens

Female Coach of the Year: Jen Ross

The 2012 Rugby Canada Award winners.

A quick pose for the photogapher.

Attendees enjoying the Gala night. Rugby Alberta enjoys their night together.

Rugby Ontario reunion

Chek News, emcee Jeff King receives jersey 37

fundraising

Support your rugby community

Eat, Meet & Fore! There are fantastic opportunities this summer

ugby Canada will play host to several fundraising events this year with an opportunity to enjoy a meal, meet members of the Canadian and other national teams, and play a round of golf to support our National Player’s Fund. The Pacific Nations Cup Kick-off Dinner in Edmonton on May 23rd will launch our series of fundraising events for this year. The dinner will be held at the Shaw Conference Centre starting with cocktails at 6 PM. This dinner will feature all of the National Senior Men’s Team and coaching staff so guests will have a chance to meet them in person and even have two members of the team sit with them in person, if a table is purchased. A Hot Stove Q & A session hosted by Canadian rugby great Gareth Rees will be the highlight of the evening. From there we move to Toronto for the Men of the Match Gala which will feature both the Canadian and Irish team members in attendance. This dinner will begin at 6 PM on Thursday, June 13th at Arcadian Court in downtown Toronto and feature guest speaker Dr. Pat Parfrey who has both Irish and Canadian ties to rugby. Dr. Parfrey will speak on the growth of rugby in Canada since he

arrived from Ireland in the 1980’s and also feature highlights of the Canada vs. Ireland match-up held in 2000 at Fletchers Field which was exciting and ultimately ended in a tie! Full table purchasers can choose between two Canadian or Irish team members joining them for guests at their table. The Players Championship Golf Tournament will follow on July 11th at Olympic View Golf Club in Victoria. The inaugural tournament in 2012 – was a resounding success, so we have brought this event back to the Victoria community in 2013. Led by former National team members Bobby Ross and Mark Cardinal, along with Langford Business Association member Graeme Bethell, this event will feature on-course contests and challenges, the round of golf with cart and prizes to be awarded during a dinner. The shotgun start will be held at 1:30 PM, and if you can’t get away from work to joins us on the course, tickets for just the dinner are available as well. Our list of summer fundraising events wraps up with a luncheon on Friday, August 23rd around the Rugby World Cup Qualifier against USA at BMO Field on August 24th. This luncheon, which strays from our usual dinner time activities, will

take place earlier in the day and feature unique opportunities that are not available to the general public. Details of this event and any of our fundraising events can be found online at events.rugbycanada.ca or by contacting Penny Kroll at pkroll@rugbycanada.ca or 905-707-8998 x 240.

spotlight

PRESENTED BY

Bianca Farella It was a spring sport and I wanted to try something new. So I just went for it.

By Chris Perrotte

José Lagman

bright future Quebec’s Biana Farella had an outstanding 2012 season for both the Concordia Stingers but also the Canadian Sevens team.

Rugby Canada

Some of Farella’s goals as a rugby player are Went for it she did, making her mark in the sport of Rugby. This 21-year-old centre went on to represent Canada at the 2016 Olympics in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil and also to participate in the to become the CIS women’s rugby Rookie of the 2013 Rugby Seven’s World Cup that will be held in Year when she played for the Concordia University Moscow, Russia from June 28-30. Stingers in the 2012-13 season. Farella was born on April 10, 1992 in Montreal, Farella, currently studying Psychology at Quebec and currently plays rugby for the Concordia, grew up playing rugby union in high school, college and university and now plays Canadian women’s sevens and fifteens teams. Farella first became interested in rugby while seven’s for Canada. If she had to choose between the two styles of rugby play, fifteens or sevens she attending the Miss Edgar’s and Miss Cramp’s School in Montreal. It was there in seventh grade would have a difficult choice to make. “I don’t know which one I like better yet. Fifteens where it all began. is a kind of comfort zone but sevens is new and In her Stingers home opener debut she scored five tries. In her next five games while playing for I’m still trying to figure it out. They’re both very different,” said Farella. Concordia, she led all women in the Quebec rugby The Montreal native accredits her Canadian conference with 12 tries (amassing 60 points) in the regular season. She continued to impress in rugby coaches for helping her adapt to a new the playoffs and was named the MVP, as she led style of play and growing as a player. “They’re great. If I ever have a question, they her Stingers to a 35-34 win in the championship would give me a straight and honest answer game. She scored three tries in the victory. Concordia isn’t the only place Farella has found which of course is what any player would want,” success. As a member of the Dawson College said Farella. “Meaghan Howat [Women’s rugby manager] helps out so much. She Blues, she won three consecutive answers right away as well.” provincial championships and was “I’ve known [Assistant Coach] Francois named a three time all-star. She also Ratier for a bit now and it’s great to see him won a gold medal with the Quebec coaching at this level,” said Farella. “He’s a under-20 rugby team in 2010 at the great teacher and it’s great to see him as a national championships. head coach and how he’s going to take this Farella brings her dominant play to the on.” Canadian team. In three matches for the They seem to like her just as much – as women’s sevens team in 2012, she’s scored in April Farella won the Young Player of one try for a total of five points. Playing for the Year – at the Rugby Canada awards the Canadian squad was something she banquet in Langford, BC. thought about once she started playing at Whether learned or innate, Farella the CIS (Canadian Interuniversity Sport) has shown she can succeed at any level level. Award winner of rugby. With the prospect of Olympic “I knew I could as I got older (17, 18), Bianca is the Rugby Canada gold on the horizon – Farella’s journey I knew this was what I wanted to do,” Player of the Year will be one to track over the next few said Farella. “Plus support from my winner. seasons. coaches, telling me that I can do it.”

Ravens

Looking to play Premier League Rugby in Vancouver? The Ravens Rugby Club is recruiting Premier and 1st Division players for the upcoming Summer Sevens and September Premier League seasons. Join one of Vancouver’s oldest and most successful clubs. The Ravens have produced many Canadian National players and won several BC Premier League titles in our 40 year history.

Rugby Club ravensrugby.com

Club facilities includes two lite practice fields, an artificial turf field, weight room, accommodations at the Jericho Beach hostel, and the Jericho Ravens Rugby Clubhouse. Top coaching, rent subsidies and employment support available for qualifying players. More info: Rick Bourne (rick@langara.com), or Aled Thomas (aled_thomas@yahoo.com)

Print Ad_20130503_RugbyCanada-program_Ravens.indd 1

2013-05-03 2:13 PM

RWC SEVENS RUSSIA 2013 preview

PRESENTED BY

explosive Harry Jones (Capilano RFC) has turned into a crucial part of the Sevens squad of 2013

RWC SEVENS RUSSIA 2013 preview

key offensive Ashley Steacy (Lethbridge RFC) will be a key part of the Canadian offense in Russia.

PURSUIT IN

RUSSIA

For once, Canadian men’s and women’s teams are in pursuit of a championship in Russia and no skates and sticks are involved! The World Cup of Sevens is in Moscow and Canada is in the thick of it! By Bryan Ray photos by josé lagman

he last weekend of June of this year will be a special one for the men and women of Canada’s national sevens programs, but not just because it marks the end of a four year cycle, it also heralds the dawn of a new era in the abbreviated code – the Olympic era. Luzhniki Stadium in Moscow will play host to what will be the final edition of the World Cup Sevens, the sixth for the men and second for the women, as the tournament will effectively be replaced by the more glamorous multi-sport spectacle. 41

RWC SEVENS RUSSIA 2013 preview

levitate Sean Duke (U of Vic Vikes) led all Canadians in try scoring on the circuit this season with 35 - Third on the IRB List

squad with a couple of Super Rugby players. The task will be tough, Canada have never beaten them in twenty attempts. Next up are the United States, archrivals and also improving, though they have probably under-performed this year given the talent they possess. Quicksilver winger Carlin Isles has been the talk of the town, but it is players like Luke Hume, Shalom Suniula, and captain Matt Hawkins that keep them ticking. Canada lead 3-1 in the head-to-head battles this season, so this one will be tight.

Starter Taylor Paris (Markham Irish) has matured into a starter on the Sevens circuit.

HISTORY 42

A top 10 finish at the World Cup would be Canada’s highest since 2001 and a fine reward for a positive season. Diminutive halfback Phil Mack and fellow playmaker Nathan Hirayama - the leading scorer on the circuit - are central to their chances, based largely on getting the ball to flyer Sean Duke who has been in fine form this season. Nanyak Dala is the captain but has had trouble holding down a starting spot with the likes of Chauncey O’Toole and in particular

Canada’s All Time IRB Sevens Series Record

Tournaments: 103rd Debut: WS I - Dubai Played: 555 Won: 242 Lost: 307 Drawn: 6 Points Scored: 9340 Conceded: 10501 Form over last 10 games Won: 4 Drawn: 0 Lost: 6 Won last 2 Best streak 6 wins From Feb 7, 2003 to March 29, 2003 Worst run 8 losses From May 27, 2007 to Nov 30, 2007 Highest Score 78 - 7 vs MEXICO WS VII - Los Angeles - Pool D Widest Margin 73 - 0 vs PARAGUAY WS III - Santiago - Pool A Heaviest Defeat 0-60 vs FIJI WS VIII - Wellington - Cup Quarter Final

John Moonlight playing major support roles. Their first match in Moscow will come against tournament favourites New Zealand. Legendary coach Gordon Tietjens will have long-time stalwarts Tomasi Cama, Tim Mikkelson, Lote Raikabula, and impeccable captain D.J. Forbes at his disposal and may yet bolster his

schedule

his year’s results have been mixed for Geraint John’s men, with good tournaments in Dubai, Las Vegas and Hong Kong surrounded by less convincing performances in the other four tournaments. Overall, their play has improved and with the final series event in London complete, Canada qualified as a core member for 2013/14 and finished in 12th place. This can largely be attributed to their high tempo offensive game, now among the very best on the tournament.

The remaining pool match is against Georgia, a side relatively inexperienced in sevens. They have yet to feature on the circuit this season and generally select a mixture of fifteens caps with a couple of their younger talents. Players like Tamaz Mchedlidze, Giorgi Pruidze, and Merab Sharikadze should be there, but whoever they pick, they will be big and physical, if ultimately naive in their tactical approach. With six pools, the top two second place finishers will also move on to the cup finals, so all is not lost if New Zealand proves too much. Famous victories over South Africa and Fiji have already been earned this season, and more such performances do not look beyond them in the near future. A top 10 finish at the World Cup would be Canada’s highest since 2001, and a fine reward for a positive season.

Canada’s Men’s Pool D

Canada’s Women’s Pool A

Canada Georgia New Zealand USA

Canada New Zealand Netherlands Tunisia

(All Times Local)

Friday, June 28, 2013 15:44 New Zealand vs Canada Saturday, June 29, 2013 10:06 USA vs Canada 13:46 Georgia vs Canada Sunday, June 30, 2013 Knock-out Stages - TBD

Saturday, June 29, 2013 09:22 Canada vs Netherlands 11:56 Canada vs Tunisia 18:32 Canadavs New Zealand Sunday, June 30, 2013 Knock-out Stages - TBD

José Lagman

RWC SEVENS RUSSIA 2013 preview

Head coach John Tait, a name very familiar to Canadian rugby fans, has his women’s side playing with a similar all-action approach. After three tournaments they rank 5th on the table, one spot higher than their 6th place finish at the 2009 World Cup in Dubai. A strong finish in the final leg, to be held in Amsterdam, could see them jump as high as 3rd, with Australia only four points ahead and very much in striking distance. Captaining the team this season is all-action forward Jen Kish, and she is ably deputised by veteran Ashley Steacy, one of the leading scorers on the circuit and a recognized star amongst her peers. Ghislaine Landry offers creativity from halfback as well as an eye for the tryline,. The women have had an unfavourable draw for Moscow, which sees them in Pool A, which contains three of the six core teams on the circuit. Circuit leaders and tournament favourites New Zealand loom as the biggest threat and feature powerhouse runners Portia Woodman and Kayla McAlister alongside playmaker Tricia Brown and the superb stepping of Kelly Brazier. Canada has done well head-to-head against them this season, however, with a draw and aAd narrow two point2 MPW-608 Rugby Sponsor 2013_Layout

defeat, suggesting that victory is well within reach. Rounding out the pool are lowly 17th ranked Tunisia, and the Netherlands. The Dutch have benefitted greatly from their inclusion as a core team this year and are now ranked 6th in the world, a considerable jump from their 13th place finish in Dubai four years ago. They play a wide game and look to electric Kelly van Harskamp and Annemarije van Rossum to provide most of their scoring. Having beaten Canada once already this season, they world-class are far from a pushover side. Mandy Marchak Should they place in the (Capilano RFC) is threat from top half of their pool, the likes anywhere on of England, Australia, and the the field - and United States will beckon at the can also make blistering knockout stages. All have fallen at tackles. least once to Canada this season and all should prove difficult but winnable encounters. The beauty of sevens is that any team The women can win on any given day. Nobody have had an would have picked Wales to win their unfavourable pool four years ago and yet here they are entering as the defending World draw for Cup champions, despite never having Moscow won a tournament since. A victory by which sees either the men or women at the World them in Pool Cup might seem unlikely, but sport A which has no memory of past defeats and all contains three it takes is three days of inspiration to of the six core achieve greatness. Regardless of the results of teams on the either side, the real benefits of elite circuit. competition in this tournament will be seen in London in three years time. Increased financial support from programs like Own The Podium will provide the best athletes with training opportunities that would have been previously unaffordable and with nearly every player that will appear in Moscow young enough to move on to the physical Olympics, the future has never Kelly Russell (Toronto looked brighter for Canada’s sevens Nomads) brings a physical 5/2/2013 3:34toPM Page 1sides. brand of rugby Sevens.

Referees World Cup MENS With IRB High Performance Sevens Referee Manager Paddy O’Brien driving forward elite Sevens match official standards, the men’s panel features the cream of those performing on the Series. They are: James McPhail (New Zealand); Anthony Moyes; Matthew O’Brien (both Australia); Marius van der Westhuizen; Rasta Rasivhenge (both South Africa); Federico Anselmi (Argentina); Rhys Thomas (Wales); Kevin White (Scotland) and Alexandre Ruiz (France). James Bolabiu (Fiji) is the only male panel member to have officiated in Dubai four years ago. The panel will be supported by 16 specialist assistant and in-goal referees.

WOMENS Reaffirming the continued advances in standards of officiating in the Women’s Game, seven of the world’s top female referees have been selected in the panel - three more than for Dubai 2009. They are: Marlize Jordaan (South Africa); Sherry Trumbull (Canada); Amy Perrett (Australia); Chelsea Gurr; Jess Beard (both New Zealand); Leah Berard (USA) and Gabriel Lee (Hong Kong), who took charge of a captivating women’s final in 2009. They will be supported by seven specialist assistant and in-goal referees, completing a record panel of 14 female match officials selected for the event.

Together, we reach higher Macquarie is proud to be the Official Sponsor of Rugby Canada and the Title Sponsor of the Rugby Canada National Senior Men's and National Senior Women's Sevens teams. We also donate to national age-grade rugby, host youth rugby clinics and promote the league’s activities.

Visit macquarieprivatewealth.ca Macquarie Private Wealth Macquarie Private Wealth Inc. is a member of the Canadian Investor Protection Fund and IIROC.

PRESENTED BY

IT’s Your call

By TREVOR ARNOLD

Reducing your team’s penalties in 2013

A Tackled Player is required to take any of these actions immediately but such actions cannot

José Lagman

It is the objective of all that are involved in the game whether they are players, coaches, referees, that every effort possible is made to reduce the number of penalties in all games. This particular message will focus upon the breakdown (tackle and ensuing ruck) and how penalties can be avoided at this phase of play. A lot of the problem is a lack of understanding of the relevant laws and how they are applied. The first issue that has to be understood is that there is a definition of a tackle and many players think a tackle is made when in actual fact it is not a tackle at all. What is a tackle (Law 15)? Please note that a player who is carrying the ball and ends up on the ground does not automatically constitute a tackled player (e.g.: if the ball carrier is pushed over – Refer to Law 14 and Law 15.3). If a player has been tackled what are the next expectations of all players; therefore what is the expectation of the referee; and as a consequence, in what sequence will the referee be monitoring the expectations of the law? The FIRST EXPECTATION is for the Tackler to release the Tackled Player (Law 15.4). The referee’s first focus of attention is therefore upon the Tackler. • The Tackler releases the player and therefore permits the tackled player to pass, release, place or push the ball (Refer to Law 15.5). • The Tackler rolls away or gets to his/her feet rather than protecting the ball or delaying delivery of the ball via one of the above actions.

tackled Megan Gibbs (Toronto Scottish) is tackled in NWL action.

The referee is looking for the following in determining a completed tackle. 4 Does the ball carrier have one knee, or more touching the ground? 4 Was the ball carrier being held when that knee (or more) touched the ground? be performed if the Tackler is preventing such attempts. The SECOND EXPECTATION is for the referee to focus upon the Tackled Player. Given the Tackler did release the player (did not keep his hands on the player or the ball) and therefore permitted any of the above actions to take place, did the Tackled Player. perform one of these actions immediately? Did the Tackled Player roll away and permit a contest for the ball? I urge all players, captains and coaches to note two significant factors. 1. The word “immediately” appears throughout the laws pertaining to both of the FIRST & the SECOND expectations. 2. Once a tackle takes place neither the tackled player

nor the tackler is permitted to touch the released ball, protect the released ball for their team or rejoin play until they are on their feet. They both must roll away. The THIRD EXPECTATION requires the referee to focus upon arriving players (Law 15.6 & 15.7). In principle the expectations of the arriving players is to remain on their feet; to join any ruck that has formed with their shoulders above their hips; to arrive from an on-side position (“through the gate”); and, to bind on to one of their team mates once a Ruck is formed (Law 16). • Players on their feet have all rights to compete for the ball. Players off their feet have no rights of possession; they do not have any rights to protect the ball; and, they are not permitted to assist their team to gain or retain the ball.

success matters You want legal advisers that do more than read you the laws. You want a law firm that is on your team, providing guidance and support. We protect your blind side so that you can score.

Learn more at gowlings.com montréal r ottawa r toronto r hamilton r waterloo region r calgary r vancouver r beijing r moscow r london

lifestyle

PRESENTED BY

THE Art of a

Close Shave

It’s not difficult to get a better shave. You just need the right tools. BY DOUG CROSSE

a close shave Connor Braid is focused on the job at hand

Pre-game routine Supreme Glide PreShave Formula is a non-greasy and non-oily formula. Apply prior to a shave and it will help to prep the skin by softening beard hair and providing a slick surface to increase razor glide. Will help to reduce razor burn, nicks and cuts. Contains: Aloe juice, Meadowfoam Seed, Bilberry Extract, Sugar Maple, Orange Fruit Extract, Cranberry Extract, Glycerin & Essential oils. 8 oz $ 24.00 NEW SIZE & PACKAGING!

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Brush With Greatness The luxuriant Silvertip Badger Bristles used in this brush are the finest available and are identical to those found in brushes selling for more than twice the price. This massive brush measures 30mm at the base of the bristle knot.

José Lagman

Safety First Parker’s economical and traditional double-edge safety razor is a musthave for the beginning and seasoned wet shaver alike. With its all brass frame and nickel/chrome finish, this razor is built to provide many years of service. Razor has the weight needed to provide a close, clean shave without the need to press it into your face causing razor burn and irritation. An extra -long decorative enameled handle with grip curves makes it a joy to use.

Shaving Soap for Him (3” Puck): With Castor Oil, Tallow, and Shea Butter for a luxurious, foamy lather and containing the earthy essential oils of Vetiver, Wintergreen, Juniper & Sweet Orange, this is a deep masculine soap indeed! We believe in using only the finest natural ingredients, making new stuff the old fashioned way.

For Real Old School New from Dovo! The curved elegance of the Burgundy Pakkawood scales make this razor truly unique. “La Forme” is etched in gold on one side of the blade which is perfectly balanced Better balance equals better control and a better shave.

This High Quality Shaving Brush’s Genuine metalic handle was Lathe-Turned by hand and carefully polished to a beautiful lustre. The perfect mate for our Genuine Ebony Straight Razors.

Post Shave Bay Rum - Menthol is a tradition in the West indies. A masterful blending of essential Oils and the purest of alcohol. Splash on liberally after showering, bathing, or shaving. Use to scent bath water. Refreshing and invigorating. Tones and conditions. Lightly scented with the clean fresh fragrance of Menthol. Imported from St. Lucia, West Indies

Images courtesy of classicshaving.com

o, the final whistle has gone: you have had a few post match pops, but it is Saturday night and time to mix with your fan base! Do you hold on to that five day mange or tidy up to look sharp? Well, if you are shaving, here are some key products that will ensure a great result and also have some of the young guns looking on with awe and admiration as you kick it old school!

PRESENTED BY

The Last Word AL CHARRON views of RUGBY IN CANADA

This is the summer to get out and cheer for Canada

anada will be involved in a renewed competition in 2013 when they enter the Pacific Nations Cup this spring, a competition in which their opponents are similar to those they faced in the old Pacific Rim Championships. Canada will kick off the competition by playing their arch rivals from the south, the United States at Ellerslie Rugby Park on May 25th in Edmonton, followed by other home games against Fiji at Twin Elms Park in Ottawa on June 5th and a scant three days later, against Tonga at Richardson Stadium in Kingston on June 8th. These series of games, which also include an away fixture against Japan will give Canada the competition it needs with the next Rugby World Cup a short two years away. I was proud to have played for Canada in the original Pacific Rim series, which like the current PNC, has seen different participating countries compete over its short history. Canada had the good fortune to have won the PAC RIM on a couple of occasions and I have great memories of playing and winning in front of some great BC crowds on the way to those titles. Canada needed this influx of regular internationals as we faced the challenge of modern day professional rugby after the 1995 RWC. No less challenged is our current national team, as the coaches and management will balance the squad between our overseas professional players and those domestic based national team athletes, who, for the most part, are either currently living and training at the Rugby Canada Centre of Excellence in Langford, BC or from other regions in Canada where they reside. Canadaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s opponents this season are difficult ones as they

bring a physical, fast, expansive brand of rugby to the table. Canada welcomes the challenge and the experience these tests matches present and expect to win. The luxury for Canada is that a number of games will actually take place on Canadian soil. Not only is this fantastic for our players to play in front of home crowds, but of course great for the Canadian public to see our men up close and personal play live.

Canada welcomes the challenge and the experience these tests matches present and expect to win. The more we can expose the game of rugby to the Canadian public both live as well as on TV domestically, the more it will help us grow the

www.canadianrugbyfoundation.ca

Special Delivery Al Charron (Ottawa Irish) gets a pass away against Namibia at the 1999 World Cup

Rugby Canada Archives

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sport in this country which in turn opens other doors of opportunity. On a personal note, I had the good fortune to play for Canada in my hometown of Ottawa at Twin Elm Park that will play host to the dynamic Fijians. I am happy to have won matches there against the likes of France in 1994 and honored further by winning my first match as the captain of Canada against Uruguay in 1996. So, special memories for me without question, but, it was special each and every time I got to put on the Canadian jersey and represent my country in any location. I think I can speak to everyone who has ever had the privilege to play for Canada that it is a special experience and the players past and present take great pride in and treat it with respect. For many years coaches, players and fans alike have long clamored for more competitive matches on a regular basis and especially on home soil. We now have it in this PNC competition and coupled with the Americas Rugby Championship (ARC) slated for play once again this Fall on Vancouver Island, we have a couple of international vehicles to play meaningful rugby. It is exciting times for the sport in this country and I hope that the Canadian public will come out in droves and watch it first hand and support our men as they strive to best prepare for the 2015 Rugby World Cup in England .