Tomorrow, June 27, begins the Women’s Rugby Super Series in Calgary, where Canada will open the tournament against the New Zealand Black Ferns.
Rugby Canada Women Set For Strong Super Series
While there are 14 uncapped players named to the squad that will play over the three day series, 13 of the women played in the World Cup last year in France, including newly named captain Laura Russell of Bolton Ontario. “To be named as captain is a huge honour,” Russell said. “To represent these ladies as we head into the Super Series is an amazing feeling.”
Russell replaces sister Kelly in the role of captain. Capped a dozen times for Canada, 26 year old Laura has been lauded as a natural-born leader and head coach Francois Ratier has put her in place as captain with the future of the squad in mind. He said “our goal is to increase the depth in women’s fifteens rugby to make sure we are in good shape for the next World Cup.” He looks to her leadership and organizational skills to help the team reach their goals.
Canada hosts rivals England, New Zealand and the USA in Calgary, Edmonton and Red Deer Alberta. Each of the four teams play in the super series with games on the 27th of June, Canada Day July 1 and July 5. Canada plays the USA in Red Deer on Canada Day at 6:30 pm, which is sure to be an interesting match given the spirit of Canada Day and the rivalry between the neighbours.
Coach Ratier has built a strong team in the last two years or so. The women took second in France last summer, but aren’t resting on their laurels. Ratier wants to continue to work on the positives and work out any of the issues that the team faces. A victory against the Black Ferns will certainly help build on those positives. Taking the series would be fantastic for the ladies. However, they will have to play three tough games to get there. It’s sure to be a very exciting series with four super strong teams.
Women’s Rugby is on a good high here in Canada and raising the profile of both the women’s side of the sport and rugby in general here at home. This looks to be a good series and will be made available to view online by Rugby Canada www.livestream.com/rugbycanadaofficial
Tickets for all three games can be purchased at events.rugbycanada.ca
