Charity Williams was moved to tears witnessing Canada’s women’s rugby team advance to the World Cup final. Having previously won Olympic silver with Canada’s rugby 7s team in Paris, Williams deeply appreciated the significance of this achievement for both the players and the sport in Canada. Commenting on the team’s success, she expressed pride in their accomplishments on the global stage and the progress of Canadian rugby.
As a member of the University of British Columbia Thunderbirds, Williams eagerly anticipates watching the final showdown between Canada, ranked second, and top-ranked England on Saturday alongside her teammates. The excitement extends beyond the players themselves, as rugby clubs nationwide are organizing watch parties to introduce a new generation to the sport’s allure.
Reflecting on her own journey in rugby, Williams emphasized the sport’s inclusivity and ability to inspire individuals regardless of their physical attributes. Leah Corvec, president of Langley Rugby Club near Vancouver, noted a significant surge in registrations for the girls under-18 team, highlighting the empowering nature of rugby for young players in boosting confidence and fostering camaraderie.
Cassidy Gale, a coach at Meraloma Rugby Club in Vancouver, highlighted the positive impact of showcasing women’s rugby on national television, emphasizing the importance of representation for aspiring players. The exposure provided by televised games not only serves to elevate the profile of women’s rugby but also garners newfound respect for the athleticism and skill displayed by the players.
The success of the women’s national team at the World Cup serves as a source of inspiration for aspiring rugby players, with athletes like Asia Hogan-Rochester, who also claimed Olympic silver, actively contributing to coaching junior programs. The ripple effect of senior athletes giving back to the community is evident in the growing interest and participation in rugby at various levels across Canada.
Sophie de Goede, Canada’s vice-captain and a standout performer at the World Cup, envisions the team’s current achievements paving the way for future growth within the sport, both at the national level and within grassroots clubs. Emphasizing the core values of rugby that resonate with Canadian ethos, de Goede aspires to see more individuals embrace the sport and its sense of community.
The Canadian team’s journey from a fourth-place finish in the 2021 World Cup to the current finals appearance reflects their dedication and progress in the sport. With de Goede’s hopeful outlook for the future, Canadian rugby stands poised for further development and inclusivity, embodying the spirit of teamwork and sportsmanship that defines the sport.