Rugby Alberta is proud to announce the establishment of its High-Performance Committee (HP Committee), a strategic advisory group dedicated to advancing player and coach development across the province.

The committee’s primary mandate is to support the Rugby Alberta Board of Directors in designing, implementing, and managing high-performance pathways that empower Alberta’s athletes and coaches to compete and excel at the national and international levels.

The HP Committee brings together key stakeholders from across Alberta’s rugby community. It includes the Rugby Alberta Director of Rugby Operations, members of the Rugby Alberta Board, and representatives appointed by the Edmonton Rugby Union (ERU), Calgary Rugby Union (CRU), and Alberta Junior Rugby Association (AJRA). To broaden expertise, the committee may also invite public members with specialized knowledge to contribute to specific initiatives or projects.

The High-Performance Committee will play a central role in shaping the future of elite rugby in Alberta. Its responsibilities include providing leadership and direction for player and coach development, defining team structures for all Rugby Alberta Wolf Pack programs, and overseeing the recruitment and selection of coaches and managers. The committee will also submit high-performance initiatives for inclusion in Rugby Alberta’s annual business plan and budget, and share regular updates through Rugby Alberta’s official communication channels.

Each year, the committee will prepare a comprehensive Wolf Pack Program Plan by the end of November. This plan will outline coach recruitment timelines, tournament and training schedules, identification (ID) camp dates, and, where applicable, tour details. Reports will be presented to the Board of Directors, included in the Annual Report, and shared at the Annual General Meeting (AGM) as required.

“This committee represents a major step forward for high-performance rugby in Alberta,” said Peter Houlihan, Director of Operations, Rugby Alberta. “By aligning resources and expertise, we are creating a clear and sustainable pathway for athletes and coaches to reach their full potential.”

Rugby Alberta Vice President and Committee Chair Paul Looker added: “This committee will allow us to put forward recommendations to the Rugby Alberta Board that enhance transparency in how programs are facilitated and provide timelines for stronger annual planning.”

Stay connected with Rugby Alberta for updates on Wolf Pack programs and high-performance initiatives.