Rugby season already nearing the end

Times Reporter

 

It’s been a fast paced season for Strathmore High School, SHS, rugby teams. On May 10 they played against Foothills Composite High School, and coach Brad Steele said they played above their abilities, winning the game 25-18. 

“We had a tough game on Thursday. We played Chestermere High School and lost 25-5,” said Steele.

“Chestermere had a strong team, and with a few key injuries, the boys had a tough time getting organized and playing as a team. There were great individual efforts. No one stopped playing hard despite the score, they showed great heart and commitment.”

There were some gutsy defensive plays by individuals and also some strong running by some individual team members, said Steele. He said every player played with courage, no matter the size of the opponent they faced. 

“That’s great when young players can do that. We need to put all these individual efforts and acts of courage into a complete team game with support from all the players. Then the wins will come no matter who the opponent is,” said Steele.

Steele said they have a lot of new players this year, and have been playing well despite the shortened season due to snow and a late spring. The league finals are to take place this week and will be followed by zone playdowns, which decide who will be attending provincials. The finals for zones will take place at the Calgary Rugby Union Park on June 3. 

“We have the athletes to compete for provincials, we just need to (play to) our potential. We need to play as a team,” said Steele.

“If we do that we can compete with all the teams in our league.”

Rugby is a very team oriented game, and while one or two players can make a difference they can’t win games. There are 30 players on the field, which means no one can ever run around, or through, them all. Players need to support their teammates when tackled, or be there when a pass is made. Steele said anyone can play rugby as there is a position for each size and shape of player.