By Lindsay K.
Every spring, Western Canada High School (WCHS) assembles many different teams to compete under the redmen name. WCHS is known as one of the top athletically inclined high schools in Calgary and surrounding areas. But what team should you really keep your eye on this season? Western Girls Rugby.This year, we had over 60 girls try out for the team, and have been able to create a squad of 33 girls to challenge the opposition. These girls represent all three grades at WCHS, and will be competing in
division one again this year – along with St. Francis, Centennial, Churchill, Bishop Grandin, and Diefenbaker.
The start of spring sports at Western is an exciting time for the redmen community, as well as the student body and staff. The year seems to be moving by more quickly than ever as we surge into the
2013/2014-spring season, and the rugby girls are raring to go. This year’s squad competed in their first game last Wednesday and shut out St. Francis with 30 points, 6 different tries, and six different try scorers. If this is any indication of how their season is going to go – the other teams better watch their backs.
Not only do these girls already have a fantastic start to their season, but girls rugby at Western has won cities four out of the last six years, including their victory as city champions last year. Last year, the girls continued onto provincial championships and placed second overall. This year the goal is to take home not only the city championship, but the provincial championship as well. The western girls will prosper this season through incredible work ethic, extreme athleticism and good sportsmanship.
There is no doubt that we have a talented team, but what really makes this team so special to be a part of? The close-knit, passionate atmosphere. When asked to comment on what being on WCHS rugby was like, grade twelve veteran Delaney Schofer said “I'm basically in it for the team breakfasts. Just kidding. Seriously though, we have a great group of hard-working, athletic girls that I have no doubt will win us City Championships again this year.” As you can see, these hard working athletes know how to have a great time, while getting the job done!
The team is comprised of a pretty equal ratio of rookies to veterans, which is a strategic play, by coaches Claire McCann, Shauna Zwicker, and Ryan Quaife. The equal ratio is designed to ensure that
each year we are able to carry girls forward, and continue success, while our veterans graduate.
Here is to another fantastic season of western girls rugby, another fantastic coaching staff and another great team of redmen athletes.
*Western plays a game next Thursday against Bishop Grandin. Come out and support your redmen, Western!
