The Canadian women’s rugby team is gearing up for the World Cup this weekend with a chance to create history, and Alysha Corrigan from P.E.I. is set to play a crucial role. The team will go head-to-head against England at Twickenham’s Allianz Stadium in London, with kickoff scheduled for noon AT. England’s Red Roses, currently the top-ranked team globally, come into the final as favorites after securing an impressive 32 consecutive wins since their defeat to New Zealand in the previous World Cup final in November 2022.
Corrigan, a native of Charlottetown, expressed readiness for the challenge, mentioning the team’s focused preparation for the game. She emphasized the team’s evolution throughout the matches and their confidence heading into the final showdown. The match at the 82,000-capacity stadium poses a unique challenge with the overwhelming crowd support, requiring special training sessions with noise-canceling headphones to enhance communication on the field amidst the loud cheers, which can be distracting.
Shannon Atkins, a UPEI Sports Hall of Famer and rugby coach, shares the optimism and believes Canada can emerge victorious if they maintain their performance level against New Zealand. Despite having a smaller budget compared to some competitors, the team has demonstrated resilience and adaptability, as evidenced by their successful fundraising efforts to bridge financial gaps for tournament preparations.
Corrigan hopes that the team’s achievements in the World Cup will elevate the profile of rugby in Canada, acknowledging the overwhelming national support they have received. The upcoming final presents an opportunity not only for sporting success but also for promoting women’s rugby on a global scale. With a distinctive playing style characterized by speed and teamwork, the Canadian team has earned recognition for their unique approach to the game, known as the “Canadian way,” which values kindness, fun, and bravery.
The team’s unity and hard work have instilled confidence in Corrigan, who believes in their capability to clinch the title. She looks forward to the challenge and is eager to showcase the team’s dedication and talent on the field.