Tears welled up in Charity Williams’ eyes as she witnessed the Canadian women’s rugby team clinching a spot in the World Cup final. Having secured an Olympic silver in Paris with Canada’s rugby 7s squad, Williams fully grasped the significance of the moment for both the players and the sport in Canada.
Expressing her emotions, Williams reflected on the remarkable progress of Canadian rugby and the team’s achievements on the global stage, from the Olympics to the current World Cup. As a member of the University of British Columbia Thunderbirds team, Williams eagerly anticipates watching the No. 2 ranked Canada face off against top-seeded England in the World Cup final on Saturday.
Beyond the players themselves, rugby clubs nationwide are organizing watch parties for the final match, introducing a new generation to the sport’s appeal. Williams highlighted the inclusive nature of rugby, emphasizing that it offers opportunities for individuals of all shapes, sizes, and abilities.
The surge in participation among young girls at Langley Rugby Club near Vancouver underscores the growing interest in the sport. Leah Corvec, the club’s president, noted a significant increase in registration for the girls’ under-18 team, fostering a sense of empowerment and camaraderie among the players.
Cassidy Gale, a coach at Meraloma Rugby Club in Vancouver, shared how televised World Cup matches have helped her players visualize themselves succeeding in the sport, boosting their confidence. The exposure of women’s rugby on national TV has also attracted a broader audience, garnering newfound respect for the athleticism and skill displayed by the female athletes.
The success of the Canadian women’s national team at the World Cup serves as inspiration for aspiring players. Through their performances, players like Asia Hogan-Rochester, who balances her role as a player with coaching duties at Westshore Rugby Football Club, exemplify the potential pathways available for young athletes in the sport.
Canada’s vice-captain, Sophie de Goede, highlighted the values of humility, hard work, and community that rugby embodies, expressing hope that the team’s current achievements will foster growth in both elite national teams and local rugby clubs, allowing more individuals to experience the sport’s camaraderie and joy.