Shawnigan is proud to congratulate Oliver N., Randall B., Chris M. and Guiseppe T., who were all selected to the Canadian U17 team headed to the 2012 International Rugby Festival at Wellington College in the UK from April 7 to 13, 2012.
With the exception of Oliver, it will be the first time for these athletes wearing the Canadian colours. Grade 11 student Randall is excited to be slipping into his first Canadian jersey. "I felt really nervous going into the tryouts. Now that I've been selected, I am really excited to represent my country overseas. I just want to play to my full potential and highlight our country through commitment on and off the field."
Shawnigan coach Tim Murdy praises all four athletes for their continued growth with the school's senior team. "There is no question that their development as athletes has been enhanced through their involvement in our program and vice versa. The time spent in our rugby skills, human performance and team trainings has helped all four to maximize their potential. However, they have all taken these opportunities and 'run with them' so that they have excelled through their hard work and commitment to excellence.
The U17 squad will head out on March 29 to insure a comfortable week of acclimatization and time for two training matches prior to the opening of the tournament on April 7. Canada's first game will kick-off against Belgium on April 8, followed by games against England South U16 on April 11 and France U16 on April 13. The eight teams competing at the tournament include: Wales U16A, USA U17, England North U16, England South U16, Netherlands U17, Belgium U17, Scotland U16 and Canada U17.