Rugby enthusiasts and leaders in Newfoundland and Labrador are excited about the sport’s return to the upcoming Summer Games in August. The event, scheduled for August 8-15 in Corner Brook, marks a significant milestone for the local rugby community.
Morgan Lovell, the technical director of the Newfoundland and Labrador Rugby Union, expressed enthusiasm about the Games, emphasizing the opportunity it provides for about 100 young male and female athletes to participate in a recognized multi-sport competition.
The resurgence of rugby in Canada, including the Canadian national women’s rugby sevens team winning silver at the Paris Olympics in 2024, has added to the excitement surrounding the sport. Lovell highlighted the recent return of rugby sevens to the Canada Games in St. John’s, underscoring the potential for non-contact rugby to attract more participants.
In preparation for the Newfoundland and Labrador Games, efforts are underway to expand rugby’s presence on the west coast of Newfoundland. A series of coaching and player clinics, organized by the union and local players from Corner Brook, aim to introduce youth aged 14-16 to the sport and potentially groom them for participation in the Summer Games.
Samantha Pomroy, a rugby player from Corner Brook, expressed optimism about the sport’s growth, particularly in engaging individuals beyond the targeted age group. Meanwhile, Steve Best, a veteran rugby player since 1986, highlighted the enduring appeal of rugby and its unique camaraderie.
The return of rugby to the Games after its last appearance in 2000 in Mount Pearl has generated excitement among players and fans alike. Best reflected on his long-standing passion for rugby, emphasizing the sport’s distinctive sense of community.
As the Newfoundland and Labrador Rugby Union continues to promote rugby in the region, the anticipation for the Summer Games in Corner Brook is building, with hopes of inspiring a new generation of rugby enthusiasts.
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