32 PLAYERS TO REPRESENT CANADA’S U20 MEN’S RUGBY TEAM AT THE OCEANIA RUGBY U20S CHALLENGE

32 PLAYERS TO REPRESENT CANADA’S U20 MEN’S RUGBY TEAM AT THE OCEANIA RUGBY U20S CHALLENGE

 

Canada’s U20 Men’s Rugby Team will compete in the 2025 Oceania Rugby U20s Challenge, with 32 players announced for the travelling squad by Christiaan Esterhuizen, Head Coach of Canada’s U20 Men’s Rugby Team.

Ahead of travelling to Fiji, the team will convene on Vancouver Island in May for a two-week camp, training out of Langford as well as at Shawnigan Lake School.  

This will be the second edition of the Oceania Rugby U20s Challenge, and will see Canada take on Samoa on May 28, Fiji on June 2, and Tonga on June 7 at King Charles Park in Nadi. 

Earlier this year, a long list of players for Canada’s U20 Men’s Rugby Team for 2025 was announced. Players were identified and selected via their participation in university and club competition and tournaments like the U19 Canadian Rugby Championship, past performance with Canada’s age grade programs, and recommendations from provincial coaches. Available players also participated in a four-day training and alignment camp at Vancouver’s St. George’s School, held alongside HSBC SVNS Vancouver. 

“Participating in the 2025 Oceania Rugby U20s Challenge is a critical step in developing our young Canadian players,” said Esterhuizen. “Competing against top Pacific nations like Fiji, Samoa and Tonga will test our players’ resilience and adaptability while providing them with a taste of international rugby. This experience will provide exposure to different playing styles and prepare our players for future international competitions. It’s a valuable opportunity to grow, learn and measure ourselves against some of the best.” 

Head Coach Christiaan Esterhuizen will be joined on staff by John McFarland (Canada’s Men’s Rugby Team Defence Coach), Hubert Buydens (Pacific Pride Development Academy Forwards Coach), Cory Hector (University of Guelph), Paddy Watson (Balmy Beach RFC), Conor Turner (Strength and Conditioning Coach), and Erin Schatkowsky (Athletic Therapist).  

Rugby Canada would like to thank Adera and the Canadian Rugby Foundation for their support of Canada’s U20 Men’s Rugby Team.

CANADA’S U20 MEN’S RUGBY TEAM 
2025 OCEANIA RUGBY U20S CHALLENGE SQUAD 

FORWARDS
Adam Doane (Sutton, ON) – University of Victoria / Aurora Barbarians 
Alexander Muir (Victoria, BC) – University College Dublin / UBCOB Ravens
Alistair Yeomans (Mississauga, ON) – University of Guelph / Mississauga Blues
Andrew Neveu (Uxbridge, ON) – Durham College / Oshawa Vikings RFC 
Angus Dewar (Vancouver, BC) – Queen’s University / UBCOB Ravens
Austin Allen (Thornbury, ON) – Trent University / Georgian Bay Titans 
Ben Koolen (Banbury, ENG) – Bloxham School / Gloucester Rugby
Brighton Feldman (Langford, BC) – University of Victoria / Westshore RFC
Coen Quinn (Ottawa, ON) – Queen’s University / Bytown Blues RFC 
Cole Harris (Uxbridge, ON) – Pacific Pride / Brock RFC  
Daragh Doyle (Quebec City, QC) – Clontarf FC
Elijah McQueen (Fergus, ON) – University of British Columbia / Fergus Highland Rugby 
James Noftall (Conception Bay South, NL) – University of British Columbia / Swilers RFC
Kaea Griffiths (Penzance, ENG) – Camborne RFC
Kyle Finan (Barnsley, ENG) – Leeds Beckett University / Red Deer Titans 
Liam Kinghorn (Calgary, AB) – University of British Columbia / Calgary Irish 
Quinn Foley (Oakville, ON) – University of Guelph / Oakville Crusaders  
Simroy John (Clapham Heights Christ Church, BRB) – Shawnigan Lake School

BACKS
Daniel Muzaliwa (Cape Town, RSA) – University of Waterloo / Waterloo County  
Evan Davies (Toronto, ON) – Balmy Beach RFC  
Jimmy Leach (London, UK) – Brunel University 
Jonty Nicholas (Wiltshire, UK) – University of British Columbia 
Joshua McIndoe (Victoria, BC) – University of Victoria / Greerton Marist Rugby Club
Kohl Kletke (Oakville, ON) – Western University / Oakville Crusaders 
Liam James (Vancouver, BC) – University of British Columbia / UBCOB Ravens
Liam Turnbull (Vancouver, BC) – UBCOB Ravens
Matthew Bennett (Durban, RSA) – University of Victoria / Westshore RFC
Morgan Di Nardo (Toronto, ON) – University of Victoria
Reece Thompson (Minesing, ON) – University of Victoria / Barrie Rugby
Rowan Closs (Uxbridge, ON) – Brock Rugby Club  
Spencer Cotie (Victoria, BC) – University of Victoria / Castaway Wanderers 
Stephen Webb (Toronto, ON) – University of British Columbia / Balmy Beach Rugby Club 

NON-TRAVELLING RESERVES 
Daniel Lucic (Oakville, ON) – University of Guelph / Oakville Crusaders
Finn Hughes (Peterborough, ON) – Wilfrid Laurier University / Peterborough Pagans
Joe Kaufmann (Kingston, ON) – Kingston Panthers / La Salle School
Josh du Toit (Cape Town, RSA) – University of British Columbia / Capilano RFC
Max McGavern (Newcastle, AUS) – University of British Columbia / St Joseph’s
Mitchell Buie (Victoria, BC) – Pacific Pride / Westshore RFC
Noah Kynaston (Esquimalt, BC) – Pacific Pride / Castaway Wanderers
Sam Blundell (Nanaimo, BC) – Pacific Pride 

2025 Rugby Law Updates: What You Need to Know

2025 Rugby Law Updates: What You Need to Know

Rugby continues to evolve to improve safety, flow, and fairness on the pitch. In 2025, World Rugby ratified several key law changes and launched global trials for others. Here’s what you need to know.

Ratified into Law

These changes are now officially part of the global lawbook.

1. Croc Rolls Are Banned

The ‘croc roll’ technique is now officially deemed foul play, to enhance player safety. Players may not roll, pull, or twist an opponent while removing a jackler from a tackle.

  • Law Reference: Law 9.20 (d)

2. No More Loitering Following a Kick in an Off-Side Position

Players are now prohibited from lingering in an off-side position after a kick, they must attempt to retreat, ensuring a more fluid and fair contest.

  • Law Reference: Law 10.1 (d)

3. Faster Scrums

Teams must be ready to form a scrum within 30 seconds of the mark being made.

  • Law Reference: Law 19.4

Global Law Trials

These law trials are being tested globally and may become permanent in future seasons.

1. Faster Conversions

Conversions must be taken within 60 seconds of a try being awarded.

  • Law Reference: Law 8.8 (c)

2. No More Scrums from Free Kicks

Teams can no longer choose to form a scrum after being awarded a free kick. This aims to speed up the game.

  • Law Reference: Law 20.3

3. Changes to Lineout 

If the defending team does not lift a jumper and the throw isn’t straight, play will now continue rather than being reset— provided the ball is still thrown into the tunnel.

  • Law Reference: Law 18.23

4. Tackling scrumhalf at breakdowns

Players in the scrumhalf position cannot be tackled within one metre of rucks or mauls by a player involved with the ruck/maul. The scrumhalf can still be tackled by a player from an onside position.

  • Law Reference: Laws 15.18 (rucks) & 16.18 (mauls)

5. Faster Lineouts

Teams must be ready to form a lineout within 30 seconds of the mark.

  • Law Reference: Law 18.12

6. Scrumhalfs Can’t Cross the Tunnel

Defending scrumhalfs cannot advance past the centre line of the tunnel at scrums.

  • Law Reference: Law 19.30 (a)

Why These Changes Matter

These law updates reflect an ongoing commitment to safer, faster, and more spectator-friendly rugby. From banning risky techniques to enforcing quicker restarts, World Rugby continues to shape the future of the sport.

Stay sharp, stay informed, and adjust your game accordingly.

36 players selected to Canada’s Women’s Rugby Team to defend Pacific Four Series title 

36 players selected to Canada’s Women’s Rugby Team to defend Pacific Four Series title

April 4, 2025 (Langford, BC) – Kevin Rouet, Head Coach of Canada’s Women’s Rugby Team, has selected an expanded squad of 36 players who will represent Canada this May at the 2025 Pacific Four Series with matches against the USA, New Zealand and Australia.

The squad will assemble in Chula Vista, California on April 19 for training camp and will be joined by Canada’s Women’s Sevens Team on April 22 for a week of combined training to prepare the teams for the Pacific Four Series and the final stop of the HSBC SVNS series, which takes place in Los Angeles over May 3 to 4.

“The Pacific Four Series marks the start of a very exciting year for women’s rugby in Canada,” said Rouet. “Giving up to 36 players valuable game time and experience at the start of the Rugby World Cup year is very important as we continue to build towards England. Our One Squad philosophy will be on full display with the overlap of the Pacific Four Series and the HSBC SVNS World Championship as we allow players to be available for both competitions.”

By using an expanded travelling roster of 36 players, the maximum number of players permitted to play throughout the Pacific Four Series, some have the potential of being selected to both the Pacific Four Series and the HSBC SVNS World Championship squads. Players listed below who are also selected to Canada’s roster for the final SVNS stop, which will be announced on April 15, will be available to join Canada’s Women’s Rugby Team for the Pacific Four Series matches against New Zealand and Australia.

“We want to give ourselves the best chance to win the Rugby World Cup and finish on the SVNS podium in Los Angeles this year,” said Jocelyn Barrieau, Head Coach of Canada’s Women’s Sevens Team. “This format is exactly what our One Squad philosophy is all about and will allow us to put the best teams on the field for the Pacific Four Series and in LA, giving both programs the opportunity for success both short term and long term.”

Canada will kick off the Pacific Four Series against the United States at CPKC Stadium in Kansas City on May 2 at 5:30pm PT/8:30pm ET (7:30pm local time). The team will then travel to New Zealand to play the Black Ferns at Apollo Projects Stadium in Christchurch on May 16 at 8:35pm PT / 11:35pm ET (May 17 at 3:35pm local time). Canada will close out the Pacific Four Series against Australia at Suncorp Stadium in Brisbane on May 22 at 11:55pm PT / May 23 at 2:55am ET (4:55pm local time).

TSN broadcast details will be announced shortly.

 

CANADA’S WOMEN’S RUGBY TEAM – 2025 PACIFIC FOUR SERIES SQUAD  

FORWARDS    
Alexandria Ellis (Ottawa, ON) – Barrhaven Scottish / Stade Français Paris

Alysia Comtois (Magog, QC) – University of Ottawa
Brittany Kassil (Guelph, ON) – Guelph Goats
Caroline Crossley (Victoria, BC) – Castaway Wanderers

Cassandra Tuffnail (Heidelberg, ON) – Ealing Trailfinders
Courtney Holtkamp (Rimbey, AB) – Red Deer Titans Rugby   
DaLeaka Menin (Vulcan, AB) – Calgary Hornets / Exeter Chiefs    
Emily Tuttosi (Souris, MB) – Calgary Hornets / Exeter Chiefs   
Fabiola Forteza (Quebec City, QC) – Club de rugby de Québec / Stade Bordelais
Gabrielle Senft (Regina, SK) – Castaway Wanderers / Saracens
Gillian Boag (Calgary, AB) – Capilano RFC / Gloucester-Hartpury  

Holly Phillips (Canmore, AB) – Banff Bears / Calgary Irish / Bristol Bears  
Julia Omokhuale (Calgary, AB) – Calgary Irish Rugby Club / Leicester Tigers   
Karen Paquin (Quebec City, QC) – Club de rugby de Quebec
Laetitia Royer (Loretteville, QC) – St-Anne-de-Bellevue / Concordia Univeristy / ASM Romagnat
McKinley Hunt (King City, ON) – Aurora Barbarians / Saracens

Mikiela Nelson (North Vancouver, BC) – Capilano RFC / Exeter Chiefs

Rachel Smith (South Surrey, BC) – University of British Columbia
Rori Wood (Sooke, BC) – College Rifles RFC / Ealing Trailfinders
Tyson Beukeboom (Uxbridge, ON) – Cowichan Piggies / Aurora Barbarians / Ealing Trailfinders

BACKS   
Alexandra Tessier (Sainte-Clotilde-de-Horton, QC) – Sainte-Anne-de-Bellevue RFC / Exeter Chiefs
Alysha Corrigan (Charlottetown, PEI) – CRFC
Asia Hogan-Rochester (Toronto, ON) – Toronto Nomands
Claire Gallagher (Caledon, ON) – Aurora Barbarians / Leicester Tigers
Fancy Bermudez (Edmonton, AB) – Nor’Westers Athletic Association / Westshore RFC / Saracens  
Florence Symonds (Vancouver, BC) – University of British Columbia

Julia Schell (Uxbridge, ON) – Guelph Goats / Castaway Wanderers / Ealing Trailfinders
Justine Blatt-Janmaat (Wolfville, NS) – Westshore RFC / Valley Rugby Union

Justine Pelletier (Rivière-du-Loup, QC) – Club de rugby de Québec / Stade Bordelais  
Krissy Scurfield (Canmore, AB) –  University of Victoria / Loughborough Lightning    

Mahalia Robinson (Fulford, QC) – Town of Mount Royal RFC
Olivia Apps (Lindsay, ON) – Lindsay RFC
Paige Farries (Red Deer, AB) – Saracens   
Sarah-Maude Lachance (Victoriaville, QC) – Club de rugby de Québec / Stade Bordelais
Shoshanah Seumanutafa (White Rock, BC) – Counties Manukau
Taylor Perry (Oakville, ON) – Oakville Crusaders / Exeter Chiefs

 

Mission: Win Rugby World Cup  
Rugby Canada has officially launched the Mission: Win the Rugby World Cup 2025 fundraising campaign. The goal is to raise $1,000,000 to provide Canada’s Women’s Rugby Team with extra resources to help them make history by winning the 2025 Rugby World Cup. With their sights set on a groundbreaking achievement this year in England, Canada’s Women’s Rugby Team is currently ranked second in the World Rugby global rankings. For more information or to donate, visit rugby.ca/donate.

CANADA’S MEN’S SEVENS TEAM ROSTER NAMED FOR FINAL ROUND OF THE HSBC WORLD RUGBY SEVENS CHALLENGER

CANADA’S MEN’S SEVENS TEAM ROSTER NAMED FOR FINAL ROUND OF THE HSBC WORLD RUGBY SEVENS CHALLENGER

The 12 players that will represent Canada’s Men’s Sevens Team in the final round of the HSBC World Rugby Sevens Challenger have been announced by Head Coach Sean White.  

Henryk Reyman Municipal Stadium in Krakow, Poland, will host the third and final stop of the Sevens Challenger over April 11 to 12. Following this tournament, the four teams with the most cumulative points gained across the three rounds will qualify for the HSBC SVNS Play Off in Los Angeles over May 3 to 4. Canada is at the top of the men’s standings going into Krakow with 34 points. 

This tournament will see Alex Russell captain the team, with the roster including nine players who competed in the first two rounds in Cape Town, where Canada finished second and third. This includes the team’s leading try scorers, Kyle Tremblay (5 tries), Jamie Armstrong (4 tries), and Morgan Di Nardo (4 tries).  

Three players are set to make their international sevens debut. The Pacific Pride’s Rhys James and James Thiel competed in the men’s invitational tournament held alongside HSBC SVNS Vancouver in February, while Kainoa Lloyd brings his experience from 24 caps with Canada’s Men’s Rugby Team. 

“We certainly are not resting on where we stand in the table and came away from Cape Town with some key areas where we wanted to make significant improvements,” said Sean White. “All that being said, our results over the previous tournaments have put us in a great position where we control our destiny for LA. Debuting three new players shows the level of competition within our wider training group. Players all over the country, from club to university, have been working hard to make the most of their opportunities at camp. In our decentralized One Squad training model, we rely on relationships with coaches, schools and professors. It has been massive for us to have the support of players’ educational institutions, and we thank each of them for their support of our national team members.”  

More information on the HSBC World Rugby Sevens Challenger, including full schedules and updated scores, can be found here. 

 

SCHEDULE 

Friday April 11 
Canada’s Men’s Sevens Team vs Madagascar  
1:06am PT / 4:06am ET 
Watch live on TSN+ 

Canada’s Men’s Sevens Team vs Japan 
4:36am PT / 7:36am ET 
Watch live on TSN+ 

Canada’s Men’s Sevens Team vs Portugal 
7:44am PT / 10:44am ET 
Watch live on TSN+ 

Saturday April 12 
Semi-finals and finals 
Times and opponents TBD 
Watch live on TSN+ 

 

CANADA’S MEN’S SEVENS TEAM 

1. Rhys James (Kelowna, BC) – UBC Okanagan / Pacific Pride 
2. James Thiel (Abbotsford, BC) – Abbotsford RFC / Pacific Pride 
3. Ethan Turner (Maple Ridge, BC) – Burnaby Lake Rugby Club 
5. Alex Russell (Bracebridge, ON) – McGill University 
13. Brenden Black (Oakville, ON) – Oakville Crusaders / Guelph University 
15. Ethan Hager (Brantford, ON) – Brantford Harlequins / Castaway Wanderers 
18. Morgan Di Nardo (Toronto, ON) – Toronto City Rugby / University of Victoria 
20. Jamie Armstrong (Ottawa, ON) – Ottawa Irish / University of Ottawa 
22. Kyle Tremblay (White Rock, BC) – Pacific Pride / Bayside RFC 
23. Thomas Isherwood (Okotoks, AB) – Foothills Lions RFC / Westshore RFC 
30. Kainoa Lloyd (Mississauga, ON) – Mississauga Blues / James Bay AA   
64. Elias Hancock (Ottawa, ON) – Bytown Blues / University of Ottawa

Launch of the New Rugby Training & Education Platform in Alberta

Launch of the New Rugby Training & Education Platform in Alberta
Rugby Canada’s new rugby training and education platform, The Breakdown, will go live in Alberta on April 1, 2025. The Breakdown platform will be available through your Sportlomo account.
When will other provinces launch?
Other provinces are also set to launch throughout 2025. Each province will have its own specific timeline, so check in with the local provincial union to find out when courses will begin running in other regions.
Key upgrades in the new system include:
The Breakdown comes with a variety of new features designed to improve your experience:
  1. No More Paywall: You’ll no longer have to pay the $25 access fee to view available courses with free access to see additional content. An additional $10 fee will only apply to certification courses (e.g., Rookie Rugby, Coach Level 1/Level 2, Match Official Level 1/Level 2).
  2. Streamlined User Experience: The platform will serve as your one-stop shop for finding your current certifications and discovering new offerings—everything in one place.
  3. Continuous Development: New modules and resources will be added throughout 2025 and beyond, ensuring that the platform stays up-to-date and relevant.
  4. Blended Course Delivery: Expect more flexible training options, including shorter in-person sessions with additional practical training integrated into the curriculum.
The Breakdown:
The Breakdown is the new and improved platform designed to streamline your rugby learning experience. You will be able to manage your certifications, register for courses, and access new educational resources through a single, easy-to-use platform.
When will my historical data be transferred?
Your historical data (certifications from The Locker and IRIS) will be migrated to The Breakdown by the end of 2025. In the meantime, you can still access your certifications through the existing platforms. Once the transfer is complete, all your data will be accessible through The Breakdown.
How do I access The Breakdown?
  1. Access your Member Account on SportLomo (LINK)
  2. On your Members Card click the grey “Access The Breakdown – Rugby Canada”
  3. Agree to the Privacy Policy and Terms and Conditions on The Breakdown
  4. Fill in the required additional information to update personal info
  5. Click the green update button
Need Help?
 For any technical support, please contact trainingandeducation@rugby.ca
For course details and updates specific to your region, reach out to Peter Houlihan at p.houlihan@rugbyalberta.com
FAQs:
How do I register for a course?
  1. Go to ‘My Courses & Learning Plans’ to view all courses you are currently enrolled in.
  2. To enroll in a new course, navigate to the ‘Course Catalog ‘ and browse the available courses. Click Enroll, Confirm Completion, or  Request Enrollment based on the course requirements.
 When will all my previously completed courses appear on The Breakdown?
  • Your historical data (certifications from The Locker and IRIS) will be migrated to The Breakdown in by the end of 2025. In the meantime, you can still access your certifications through the existing platforms. Once the transfer is complete, all your data will be accessible through The Breakdown
 How do I confirm completion of a course I completed outside of The Breakdown
  1. To confirm completion of a course completed outside of The Breakdown navigate to the ‘Course Catalog ‘and browse the available courses under ‘NCCP Courses’ or ‘World Rugby E-Learning’
  2. Click on the course you wish to confirm completion of
  3. Complete the test questions (Note: some courses require verification by admin and will remain ‘In-Progress’)
 How do I cancel my registration for a course I can no longer attend?
  •  Please contact Peter Houlihan p.houlihan@rugbyalberta.com
 I don’t see any scheduled courses being offered!
  • Information will be released in our newsletter, and on social media when available

INTERNATIONAL RUGBY RETURNS TO EDMONTON THIS JULY AS CANADA’S MEN’S RUGBY TEAM PREPARES FOR RUGBY WORLD CUP QUALIFICATION

INTERNATIONAL RUGBY RETURNS TO EDMONTON THIS JULY AS CANADA’S MEN’S RUGBY TEAM PREPARES FOR RUGBY WORLD CUP QUALIFICATION

Canada to play test matches against Belgium and Spain at Clarke Stadium

 

The city of Edmonton will play host to two international rugby matches this July, with Canada’s Men’s Rugby Team set to play Belgium and Spain at the 4500 seat capacity Clarke Stadium, the original home of the CFL’s Edmonton Elks.

The return of international rugby to Alberta will see Canada kick off against Belgium on Saturday July 12 at 5:00pm MT, followed by a match-up with Spain on Friday July 18 at 7:00pm MT. This will mark the first time international test match rugby has been contested in the province since 2018.

These matches will serve as preparation for Canada for the 2025 Pacific Nations Cup, which will kick off with the team taking on the USA on home soil in August, Canada’s first opportunity to earn direct qualification for the 2027 Men’s Rugby World Cup. Further details on the Pacific Nations Cup will be announced shortly.

Canada’s match in Edmonton against the 22nd world ranked Belgium, who just booked a spot in this fall’s Rugby World Cup Final Qualification Tournament, will be the fourth-ever meeting between the two nations. Canada’s Men’s Rugby Team last played and beat the Belgians 45-0 in Halifax in July 2022. This will also mark the first match for Steve Meehan as the Canadian team’s new Head Coach, with both games an important opportunity for players to impress as the program prepares for Rugby World Cup qualification.

This will be the third time in the last four years that Canada’s Men’s Rugby Team has met Spain, having played them in Villajoyosa in November 2023 and in Ottawa in July 2022. Canada will be looking for their first win over the 16th world ranked Spanish team, which qualified for the Rugby World Cup in February by reaching the Rugby Europe Men’s Championship semi-finals, since 2017.

“We have a big challenge ahead of us this summer and I can’t wait to rip into it with the boys. I know guys are in their different team environments working hard so we can put our best foot forward when we get back together,” said Lucas Rumball, captain of Canada’s Men’s Rugby Team. “It’s great to have met Steve Meehan in person and over team calls. He is challenging the players to engage with each other on a technical, tactical side of rugby and help push each other on the physical side of the game. He’s put pressure on us to be our best self and player come the summer tests. This will help us be in a good space for the games in July and the upcoming Rugby World Cup qualification. Having had some of my earliest caps and provincial rugby experiences be in Alberta, I can’t wait to get back there. The fans are passionate and always give us a bit of extra push to get the job done. It’s a great rugby community and we definitely need their support for the upcoming games. Looking forward to playing in front of a packed house.”

“Explore Edmonton is excited to work alongside Rugby Canada to bring international rugby back to Edmonton, host world-class athletes and international fans in our city, and show the world Edmonton’s passion for sport,” said Traci Bednard, President and CEO of Explore Edmonton. “Major sporting events bring vibrancy to Edmonton, enrich our community, and bolster the economy. It’s great to partner with the City of Edmonton to put Edmonton on the global rugby stage.”

“Rugby Alberta is incredibly excited to be hosting not one, but two senior men’s national team fixtures this July in our province,” said Chris Cooke, President of Rugby Alberta. “The rugby community in Alberta is incredibly passionate and I can’t wait to see two sell-out crowds at Clarke Stadium in Edmonton cheering the squad on. Rugby Alberta looks forward to partnering with Rugby Canada, the Edmonton Rugby Union, the Calgary Rugby Union and all individual rugby clubs across our province to make these events a success. Let’s show the world how much noise an Alberta crowd can make on July 12 and 18!”

Rugby Canada would like to thank Explore Edmonton and the City of Edmonton for their support in bringing international rugby back to Alberta.

Tickets, which will start at $40, will go on sale in April, with the rugby community in Alberta being offered the opportunity to fundraise for their clubs via purchasing groups tickets, details of which will be distributed to clubs shortly.

Further details, including information on how to buy tickets, TSN broadcast specifics, and media accreditation applications, will be announced shortly. To be amongst the first to know about tickets going on sale for Canada’s matches in Edmonton, please fill out this form.

CANADA’S WOMENS SEVENS TEAM ROSTER NAMED FOR CATHAY/HSBC HONG KONG SEVENS

CANADA’S WOMENS SEVENS TEAM ROSTER NAMED FOR CATHAY/HSBC HONG KONG SEVENS

Canada’s Women’s Sevens Team is back in action this month for the first time since HSBC SVNS Vancouver, with the squad set to represent Canada at the Cathay/HSBC Hong Kong Sevens announced today by Head Coach Jocelyn Barrieau. 

The Cathay/HSBC Hong Kong Sevens, the fifth leg of the 2025 HSBC SVNS series, will take place March 28 to 30 at the new Kai Tak Sports Park, with Canada taking on Japan, Australia and Spain in Pool C. 

Fourteen players will travel to Hong Kong, with 13 declared for the final tournament roster ahead of competition. 

“We have continued to work closely with Canada’s Women’s Rugby Team Head Coach Kevin Rouet and to embody and live our One Squad philosophy throughout the selection process as our programs and players prepare for the remaining SVNS stops and the Pacific Four Series,” said Jocelyn Barrieau, Head Coach of Canada’s Women’s Sevens Team. “We are excited to keep building on the foundations of our performances this season. We will continue to support all of our teams and players in this monumental year for women’s rugby in Canada, and look forward to seeing the return of multiple players to the international sevens stage in the brand-new Kai Tak Sports Park in Hong Kong.” 

Taylor Perry returns to Canada’s Women’s Sevens Team for the first time since winning silver at the Paris 2024 Olympics, having spent this past season in the PWR with the Exeter Chiefs. Perry’s Exeter Chiefs teammate Sabrina Poulin makes her return to sevens as well, having last competed on the SVNS series in Hong Kong last April. 

Following HSBC SVNS Perth, Carmen Izyk returned to her Élite 2 Féminine team in France, Rugby Club Toulon Provence Méditerranée, and now makes the switch back to the Canadian national team. 

Eden Kilgour, who competed with Canada’s Women’s Sevens Team at the PR7s All-Star Tournament in November and last appeared on the SVNS series in Singapore last year, has been named to the squad as well. 

Two RBC Training Ground players could make their SVNS series debut. Julia Omokhuale, who earned her first cap for Canada’s Women’s Rugby Team at WXV in 2023, has spent the season in the PWR with Leicester Tigers. Vanessa Chiappetta, a standout University of Victoria player, is also a 2024 FISU World University Championship silver medallist.  

Olivia Apps will captain the team and has the opportunity to surpass 300 career SVNS series points in Hong Kong, currently holding 296. 

 

HONG KONG POOL PLAY SCHEDULE 

Friday March 28 
Canada’s Women’s Sevens Team vs Japan 
7:30pm PT (March 27) / 10:30pm ET (March 27) / 10:30am local time 
Watch live on TSN+ 

Canada’s Women’s Sevens Team vs Australia 
10:57pm PT (March 27) / 1:57am ET / 1:57pm local time 
Watch live on TSN+ 

Saturday March 29 
Canada’s Women’s Sevens Team vs Spain 
6:30pm PT (March 28) / 9:30pm ET (March 28) / 9:30am local time 
Watch live on TSN+ 

Following the Cathay/HSBC Hong Kong Sevens, Canada’s Women’s Sevens Team will travel to the penultimate 2025 HSBC SVNS stop in Singapore (April 5 to 6). Any roster changes heading into Singapore will be announced on Rugby Canada’s social media channels following Hong Kong. World Rugby will announce the pools and schedule for Singapore following the conclusion of Hong Kong also. 

All Cathay/HSBC Hong Kong Sevens and HSBC SVNS Singapore matches will be available live on TSN+. 

 

MORE INFO 

For the most up to date information on the HSBC SVNS Series and live coverage, including details on the event format, the schedule and the latest news, visit the official website: www.svns.com.   

 

CANADA’S WOMEN’S SEVENS TEAM ROSTER 

3. Vanessa Chiappetta (Rigaud, QC) – University of Victoria / Westshore RFC 
4. Breanne Nicholas (Blenheim, ON) – Kent Havoc RFC  
6. Charity Williams (Toronto, ON) – Markham Irish / University of British Columbia  
7. Florence Symonds (Vancouver, BC) – University of British Columbia  
8. Carmen Izyk (High River, AB) – Foothills Lions / Queen’s University / RCTPM 
9. Olivia Apps (Lindsay, ON) – Lindsay RFC 
10. Fancy Bermudez (Edmonton, AB) – NorWester Athletic Association / Westshore RFC / Saracens 
14. Eden Kilgour (Barrie, ON) – Westshore RFC 
18. Julia Omokhuale (Calgary, AB) – Calgary Irish / Leicester Tigers 
19. Carissa Norsten (Waldheim, SK) – Kirin RFC / University of Victoria 
22. Sabrina Poulin (St-Georges, QC) – Town of Mount Royal RFC / Exeter Chiefs 
27. Olivia Sarabura (Guelph, ON) – University of British Columbia   
29. Mahalia Robinson (Fulford, QC) – Town of Mount Royal RFC 
40. Taylor Perry (Oakville, ON) – Oakville Crusaders / Exeter Chiefs 

28 PLAYERS NAMED TO CANADA’S U20 WOMEN’S RUGBY TEAM FOR MAY IRELAND TOUR

28 PLAYERS NAMED TO CANADA’S U20 WOMEN’S RUGBY TEAM FOR MAY IRELAND TOUR

Twenty-eight players have been selected to represent Canada’s U20 Women’s Rugby Team this spring in Dublin.  

Canada will play against Ireland on May 10 and May 17 at the IRFU High Performance Centre. The team will depart for Ireland in early May and includes 14 players from last year’s Transatlantic Quad Series champion roster. Canada’s leading try scorers from that tournament, Kennedi Stevenson, Adelaide Holmes and Rachel Cullum, all return to the team.  

“The selection process for this year’s U20 women’s team included five regional camps held in Ontario, Quebec, Alberta, BC and the Atlantic, as well as players’ performance in provincial U19 competition and U SPORTS,” said Dean Murten, Head Coach of Canada’s U20 Women’s Rugby Team. “This is an exciting group of up-and-coming players that our experienced coaching staff is looking forward to working with in Ireland.” 

Eight players on the team helped the University of British Columbia to their first-ever U SPORTS Women’s Rugby Championship title this past fall. This includes Adia Pye, who in addition to being named to the U SPORTS Tournament All-Star team, also won silver for Canada last year at the 2024 FISU World University Championship Rugby Sevens.  

Two players from the 2024 U SPORTS runner-up, the University of Victoria, have been named to the squad also, along with five players from the bronze medallist Queen’s University team, including U SPORTS Rookie of the Year Stevenson. Fellow Rookie of the Year nominees Sierra Hasse and Mya Koleba will make the trip to Dublin as well. 

Information on how to support and follow the team will be announced in the coming weeks. Rugby Canada would like to thank Raymond James, the Canadian Rugby Foundation, For the Love of the Game, Langara Fishing Lodge and Blenheim Foundation for their support of Canada’s U20 Women’s Rugby Team.

 

CANADA’S U20 WOMEN’S RUGBY TEAM IRELAND TOUR SQUAD  

FORWARDS

Alexis Dobson (Abbotsford, BC) – University of British Columbia 
Amber Edgerton (Uxbridge, ON) – Oshawa Vikings / Durham College 
Anya Prokopich (Surrey, BC) – Bayside RFC 
Brooke Rempel (Ariss, ON) – Brantford Harlequins / Brock University 
Charli Helland (Vulcan, AB) – University of Lethbridge / Calgary Rams 
Gabrielle Knox (Williams Lake, BC) – Williams Lake Rustlers / UBCO 
Heather Armstrong (Calgary, AB) – Calgary Hornets / University of Guelph 
Jordyn Schneppenheim (Keswick, ON) – Aurora Barbarians / Queen’s University 
Kiki Idowu (Toronto, ON) – Toronto Scottish RFC 
Madeline Di Girolamo (Vaughan, ON) – University of Guelph / Aurora Barbarians 
Mya Koleba (Vernon, BC) – TORA / University of British Columbia 
Sandrine Faucher (Québec City, QC) – Club de Rugby de Québec / Université Laval  
Sarah (Jiggy) Schonfeld (Ottawa, ON) – Queen’s University 
Sierra Hasse (Saint-Lazare, QC) – SABRFC / Carleton University 

 

BACKS 

Adelaide Holmes (Waterloo, ON) – Guelph RFC / University of Guelph 
Adia Pye (Victoria, BC) – Castaway Wanderers / University of British Columbia  
Ava Ference (Shawnigan Lake, BC) – Harvard University / Cowichan Piggies RFC 
Brooklyn Roddham (Langley, BC) – University of British Columbia 
Charlotte Hilton (Fall River, NS) – Halifax Tars RFC 
Elle Douglas (Saskatoon, SK) – Kirin RFC / University of Victoria  
Fiona Day (Fall River, NS) – University of Ottawa 
Guinevere O’Hara (Toronto, ON) – Aurora Barbarians / Queen’s University 
Kelsa Kempf (Langley, BC) – Trinity Western University 
Kennedi Stevenson (Georgetown, ON) – Brantford Harlequins 
Lana Dueck (Abbotsford, BC) – Abbotsford Rugby Club / University of British Columbia / Yale Secondary School 
Nayka Goudreau (Saint-Prosper-de-Dorchester, QC) – Club de Rugby de Québec / Université Laval 
Rachel Cullum (Ottawa, ON) – Queen’s University / Kingston Panthers 
Skye Farish (Victoria, BC) – Castaway Wanderers / University of British Columbia 

 

Non-Travelling Reserves 

Brynn Jenkins (Peterborough, ON) – Queen’s University 
Dallone Beauchemin (Mississauga, ON) – University of Guelph 
Delphine Champagne (Québec City, QC) – Club de Rugby de Québec / CNDF 
Emilie Brett (Abbotsford, BC) – University of Victoria 
Erica Osei (Montreal, QC) – SABRFC / John Abbott College 
Ivy Poetker (Calgary, AB) – Calgary Rams / Westshore RFC 
Oceanne Gauthier (Lery, QC) – John Abbott College / Quebec West Seniors 
Olivia Dibua (Caledon, ON) – Aurora Barbarians / Queen’s University 
Riley Authier (Châteauguay, QC) – Concordia University 
Robyn Baker (Uxbridge, ON) – Queen’s University 
Sydney Pipe (Colborne, ON) – Queen’s University / Oshawa Vikings 

 

Staff  

Dean Murten (Head Coach) 
Darcy Patterson (Attack Coach) 
François Vachon-Marceau (Forwards Coach) 
Jennifer Russell (Backs and Transition Coach) 
Nestor Valencia (S&C Coach) 
Jessica Algie (Lead Therapist) 
Emily Hickson (Therapist) 
Richard Owen (Analyst) 

ROSTER NAMED AS CANADA’S MEN’S SEVENS TEAM PREPARES FOR FIRST STOP OF THE HSBC WORLD RUGBY SEVENS CHALLENGER

ROSTER NAMED AS CANADA’S MEN’S SEVENS TEAM PREPARES FOR FIRST STOP OF THE HSBC WORLD RUGBY SEVENS CHALLENGER

The 13 players that will represent Canada’s Men’s Sevens Team over the first two legs of the 2025 HSBC World Rugby Sevens Challenger have been named by Head Coach Sean White following the men’s invitational at HSBC SVNS Vancouver. 

Cape Town, South Africa will host the opening rounds over March 1 to 2 and March 7 to 8. Teams will compete at Athlone Stadium, with the top eight ranked men’s teams following these two weekends progressing to the third round in Krakow, Poland in April. Following the third round, the top four ranked teams will qualify for the HSBC SVNS Play Off tournament in Los Angeles over May 3 to 4. More information on the HSBC World Rugby Sevens Challenger format can be found here. 

All 13 players on the roster competed at the men’s invitational held at BC Place this past weekend alongside the 10th edition of HSBC SVNS Vancouver. Twelve of these players made it onto the scoresheet in Vancouver, with Ethan Hager and Jamie Armstrong (the 2024 Back of the Year at the Canadian University Men’s Rugby Championship) leading the way on the team with four tries each through four games. 

Players such as Alex Russell, Thomas Isherwood, Kal Sager and Elias Hancock will bring valuable experience to the squad, with up-and-coming players who impressed in Vancouver looking to make their mark and play a part in Canada’s journey back to the HSBC SVNS series.  

Two players, Morgan Di Nardo and Ethan Turner, made their debut for Canada last year at the Cathay/HSBC Hong Kong Sevens, while Kyle Tremblay (of the Pacific Pride Development Academy) and Johnny Franklin debuted in November at the Rugby Americas North Sevens. 

Brenden Black, who also had a strong showing in Vancouver as one of the team’s strongest conversion kickers, was the youngest player to ever be capped in the MLR when he played his first professional game in 2023.  

“Having the opportunity to build cohesion as a team as well as fine tune our processes on and off field will allow us to hit the ground running in Cape Town,” said Sean White. “I was certainly pleased with our performances in Vancouver, and it made for very difficult selections which is what you always want as a coach. Our One Squad process has resulted in the potential for five new players to make their SVNS/Challenger debut. After a long travel day today, we will continue our recovery in Cape Town and make the adjustments needed to have a successful start to our Challenger Series.”  

More information on the HSBC World Rugby Sevens Challenger, including full schedules and updated scores, can be found here. 

 

SCHEDULE 

Saturday March 1 
Canada’s Men’s Sevens Team vs Madagascar 
3:21am PT / 6:21am ET 
Watch on TSN+ 

 

Canada’s Men’s Sevens Team vs Hong Kong China 
6:37am PT / 9:37am ET  
Watch on TSN+ 

 

Sunday March 2 
Semi-finals and finals 
Times and opponents TBD 
Watch on TSN+ 

*The schedule for the second round over March 7 to 8 will be announced by World Rugby following the conclusion of the first round. 

 

CANADA’S MEN’S SEVENS TEAM 

3. Ethan Turner (Maple Ridge, BC) – Burnaby Lake Rugby Club 
5. Alex Russell (Bracebridge, ON) – McGill University 
10. Noah Bain (Abbotsford, BC) – UBCOB Ravens / New England Free Jacks 
13. Brenden Black (Oakville, ON) – Oakville Crusaders / Guelph University 
15. Ethan Hager (Brantford, ON) – Brantford Harlequins / Castaway Wanderers 
18. Morgan Di Nardo (Toronto, ON) – Toronto City Rugby / University of Victoria 
20. Jamie Armstrong (Ottawa, ON) – Ottawa Irish / University of Ottawa 
22. Kyle Tremblay (White Rock, BC) – Pacific Pride / Bayside RFC 
23. Thomas Isherwood (Okotoks, AB) – Foothills Lions RFC / Westshore RFC 
27. Johnny Franklin (Bowen Island, BC) – Capilano RFC 
33. Kal Sager (Peterborough, ON) – Peterborough Pagans / Trent University  
64. Elias Hancock (Ottawa, ON) – Bytown Blues / University of Ottawa 
82. Michael Laplaine-Pereira (Montreal, QC) – TMR Rugby / Concordia University 

CANADA’S U20 MEN’S RUGBY TEAM LONG LIST ANNOUNCED AHEAD OF FEBRUARY CAMP IN VANCOUVER

CANADA’S U20 MEN’S RUGBY TEAM LONG LIST ANNOUNCED AHEAD OF FEBRUARY CAMP IN VANCOUVER

Christiaan Esterhuizen, Head Coach of Canada’s U20 Men’s Rugby Team, has announced a long list of players for Rugby Canada’s 2025 U20 squad.

This group recently gathered in Vancouver, BC for a training and alignment camp from February 20 to 23. Held alongside HSBC SVNS Vancouver, the team trained at Vancouver’s St. George’s School and played an intersquad match on February 23.

This camp was part of Canada’s U20 men’s program’s preparations for a 2025 tour to Fiji, with further information to be announced when possible.

Players were identified and selected for the long list based on their participation in university and club competition, tournaments like the U19 Canadian Rugby Championship, past performances with Canada’s age-grade programs, and recommendations from provincial coaches. Players on the long list have been engaged in regular preparation and alignment calls, with staff closely monitoring their strength and conditioning progress as they train in their respective environments.

“We were excited to gather our players and staff in Vancouver and officially kick off our U20 programming,” said Esterhuizen. “Our staff have been impressed with the dedication and eagerness of our players. I have seen them in action over the last few months in a variety of competitions, stretching from the Canadian Rugby Championships in Nova Scotia all the way to Vancouver Island. While some of our players based abroad were unable to attend this short camp, we are also delighted to have players competing in strong competitions in countries like Ireland, Scotland, England, and Australia, furthering their rugby development before joining us later in the year.”

Head Coach Christiaan Esterhuizen was joined in Vancouver by Canada’s Men’s Rugby Team Defence Coach John McFarland, Cory Hector (University of Guelph), Paddy Watson (Balmy Beach RFC), Conor Turner (Strength and Conditioning Coach), and Erin Schatkowsky (Athletic Therapist).

Additional coaching support for Sunday’s intersquad scrimmage included Didier Banse (University of British Columbia), Bruce Rainer (University of British Columbia), Andy Evans (Trinity Western University), Aaron Takel (Collingwood School), Bill Chamberlain (St. George’s School), and Graeme Moffatt (University of Lethbridge).

CANADA’S U20 MEN’S RUGBY TEAM  
2025 LONG LIST 

FORWARDS 

Adam Doane (Sutton, ON) – University of Victoria / Aurora Barbarians  
Alexander Muir (Victoria, BC) – University College Dublin / UBCOB Ravens 
Alistair Yeomans (Mississauga, ON) – University of Guelph / Mississauga Blues 
Andrew Neveu (Uxbridge, ON) – Durham College / Oshawa Vikings RFC  
Angus Dewar (Vancouver, BC) – Queen’s University / UBCOB Ravens 
Austin Allen (Thornbury, ON) – Trent University / Georgian Bay Titans  
Ben Davis (Peterborough, ON) – University of Ottawa / Peterborough Pagans 
Ben Koolen (Banbury, ENG) – Bloxham School / Gloucester Rugby 
Braam Swanepoel (Pretoria, RSA) – York University  
Brighton Feldman (Langford, BC) – University of Victoria / Westshore RFC 
Chukwudumebi Odum (Mississauga, ON) – Valence Romans Drome Rugby 
Coen Quinn (Ottawa, ON) – Queen’s University / Bytown Blues RFC  
Cole Harris (Uxbridge, ON) – Pacific Pride / Brock RFC  
Daniel Lucic (Oakville, ON) – University of Guelph / Oakville Crusaders  
Daragh Doyle (Quebec City, QC) – Clontarf FC 
Elijah McQueen (Fergus, ON) – University of British Columbia / Fergus Highland Rugby 
Finn Hughes (Peterborough, ON) – Wilfrid Laurier University / Peterborough Pagans  
Jacob Blackwood (Tsawwassen, BC) – University of British Columbia / Bayside Sharks  
James Noftall (Conception Bay South, NL) – University of British Columbia / Swilers RFC 
Kaea Griffiths (Penzance, ENG) – Camborne RFC 
Kyle Finan (Barnsley, ENG) – Leeds Beckett University / Red Deer Titans  
Liam Kinghorn (Calgary, AB) – University of British Columbia / Calgary Irish 
Matthew Carroll (Oakville, ON) – Queen’s University / Oakville Crusaders  
Noah Kynaston (Esquimalt, BC) – Pacific Pride / Castaway Wanderers  
Quinn Foley (Oakville, ON) – University of Guelph / Oakville Crusaders  
Reid Yurkowski (Leduc, AB) – Capilano RFC  
Simroy John (Clapham Heights Christ Church, BRB) – Shawnigan Lake School 
Tate Hartley (Vancouver, BC) – University of British Columbia  

BACKS 

Ashton Chapman (Swansea, WAL) – Gorseinon 
Benjamin Crowley (County Limerick, IRE) – Blackrock College  
Briar Barron (Holland Landing, ON) – Queen’s University / Aurora Barbarians  
Charlie Huntingford (North Vancouver, BC) – Capilano RFC 
Daniel Muzaliwa (Cape Town, RSA) – University of Waterloo / Waterloo County  
Devonne Henry (Whitby, ON) – Wilfrid Laurier University / Oshawa Vikings  
Emmett Rahiri (Peterborough, ON) – University of Ottawa / Peterborough Pagans 
Evan Davies (Toronto, ON) – Balmy Beach RFC  
Evan Palmer (Vancouver, BC) – Queen’s University  
Jacques Henning (Okotoks, AB) – University of Alberta / Foothills Lions RFC 
Jimmy Leach (London, UK) – Brunel University  
Joe Kaufmann (Kingston, ON) – Kingston Panthers / La Salle School 
Jonty Nicholas (Wiltshire, UK) – University of British Columbia  
Joshua McIndoe (Victoria, BC) – University of Victoria / Greerton Marist Rugby Club 
Kohl Kletke (Oakville, ON) – Western University / Oakville Crusaders  
Liam James (Vancouver, BC) – University of British Columbia / UBCOB Ravens 
Liam Turnbull (Vancouver, BC) – UBCOB Ravens 
Matthew Bennett (Durban, RSA) – University of Victoria / Westshore RFC 
Max McGavern (Newcastle, AUS) – University of British Columbia / St Joseph’s  
Mitchell Buie (Victoria, BC) – Pacific Pride / Westshore RFC 
Morgan Di Nardo (Toronto, ON) – University of Victoria 
Reece Thompson (Minesing, ON) – University of Victoria / Barrie Rugby 
Rowan Closs (Uxbridge, ON) – Brock Rugby Club   
Spencer Cotie (Victoria, BC) – University of Victoria / Castaway Wanderers  
Stephen Webb (Toronto, ON) – University of British Columbia / Balmy Beach Rugby Club 
Ty Driscoll (Victoria, BC) – Pacific Pride