Canada’s Journey in Women’s Rugby Sevens: A Season of Growth and Challenges
Canada’s women’s rugby sevens team has had a rollercoaster season on the HSBC Sevens World Series (HSBC SVNS) circuit, showcasing both resilience and potential. With finishes of eighth in Dubai, fifth in Cape Town, fourth in Perth, and seventh in Vancouver, the team has been on a journey of ups and downs, reflecting the competitive nature of international rugby.
Upcoming Challenges in Hong Kong
As the team prepares for the next leg of their journey, fourteen players will travel to Hong Kong, where they will finalize their roster to thirteen ahead of the competition. This event is particularly significant as it takes place at the newly constructed Kai Tak Sports Park, a venue that promises to elevate the experience for both players and fans alike. Coach Jocelyn Barrieau expressed excitement about building on the foundations laid during the season, emphasizing the importance of supporting all teams and players during this monumental year for women’s rugby in Canada.
Player Movements and Strategic Adjustments
In a strategic move, players have been transitioning between the sevens and 15s teams as Canada gears up for the remaining stops on the HSBC SVNS circuit, as well as the Pacific Four Series and the Rugby World Cup later this year. This flexibility is crucial as it allows the coaching staff to assess player performance and fitness levels while ensuring that the best talent is available for each competition.
Among the notable returns to the squad is Carmen Izyk, who last played in Perth and has been competing with Rugby Club Toulon Provence Méditerranée in France. Julia Omokhuale, who has been honing her skills in England with the Leicester Tigers, and Vanessa Chiappetta from the University of Victoria also make their return, adding depth and experience to the lineup.
Leadership on the Field
Olivia Apps, who has accumulated an impressive 296 points in HSBC SVNS play, will take on the captaincy role in the absence of the injured Piper Logan. Apps’ leadership will be vital as the team faces formidable opponents in their opening matches against Japan and Australia on March 28, followed by a clash with Spain on March 29. The ability to adapt and perform under pressure will be key for Canada as they aim to improve their standings in the tournament.
Looking Ahead: The Road to the World Championship
Following the Hong Kong tournament, the HSBC SVNS circuit will move to Singapore for the penultimate event of the season on April 5-6. The stakes will be high as the top eight men’s and women’s teams prepare for the season-ending World Championship at Dignity Health Sports Park in Carson, California, on May 3-4. This finale will not only crown the champions of the season but will also feature a promotion/relegation playoff involving the top four teams from the second-tier HSBC Sevens Challenger series.
Canadian Men’s Team in the Challenger Series
While the women’s team is focused on their upcoming matches, the Canadian men’s team, which faced relegation last June, is set to participate in the final Challenger Series event on April 11-12 in Krakow, Poland. Currently, Canada tops the Challenger standings after finishing as runner-up in the first event and securing a third-place finish in the second stop, both held in Cape Town. This performance highlights the potential for growth and development within Canadian rugby across both formats.
The Canadian Roster
The roster for the upcoming Hong Kong tournament features a mix of experienced players and emerging talent, including:
- Vanessa Chiappetta (Rigaud, Que., Westshore RFC)
- Breanne Nicholas (Blenheim, Ont., Kent Havoc RFC)
- Charity Williams (Toronto, UBC)
- Florence Symonds (Vancouver, UBC)
- Carmen Izyk (High River, Alta., RCTPM)
- Olivia Apps (Lindsay, Ont., Lindsay RFC)
- Fancy Bermudez (Edmonton, Saracens, England)
- Eden Kilgour (Barrie, Ont., Westshore RFC)
- Julia Omokhuale (Calgary, Leicester Tigers, England)
- Carissa Norsten (Waldheim, Sask., University of Victoria)
- Sabrina Poulin (St-Georges, Que., Exeter Chiefs, England)
- Olivia Sarabura (Guelph, Ont., UBC)
- Mahalia Robinson (Fulford, Que., Town of Mount Royal RFC)
- Taylor Perry (Oakville, Ont., Exeter Chiefs, England)
This diverse roster reflects the depth of talent within Canadian rugby and the commitment to fostering a competitive spirit on the international stage.
As the Canadian women’s rugby sevens team prepares for their next challenges, the focus remains on growth, teamwork, and the pursuit of excellence in a year that promises to be pivotal for the sport in Canada.
