With the 2015 high school rugby season set to begin, the Carihi boys rugby team is looking for players in grades 9-12, both new and experienced.
All players are welcome, whether or not they have played before, as the sport will accommodate all skill levels. That's just one reason why, according to head coach Darren Munro, "rugby is the best sport in the world!"
Training will be Monday and Wednesday after school, players need to dress for weather and wear cleats and a fitted mouth guard. The team also welcomes newcomer Kevin Seibert in an assistant coaching role.
This year sees the return of girls high school rugby as well. Coaches Marie-Eve Brindamour, Jessica Leck and Erin Young are pleased to invite girls in grades 8-12 in any Campbell River school to join them Mondays at Carihi's field and Wednesdays at Timberline's field.
"We have been given a startup grant to purchase jerseys, and permission from the Island league to combine schools to help grow the game here in Campbell River," says Young. "Having Marie-Eve, who recently played representative rugby for BC Senior Women and Canada's Senior National 15s in addition to New Zealand and South Africa rep rugby, able to share her knowledge and experience will make this a perfect year for local girls to get involved."
Young also stressed that no prior experience is needed.
"Many girls express concern that they've never played before and we explain that everyone their age is fairly new to the game — both their teammates and the opposition. We keep things simple and fun and everyone learns together."
Coaches and teammates want to also wish Kristine Osachuk best of luck as she heads to the Las Vegas 7s next week with the defending champion BC U18 Women.