Applications for the 2011 Courtenay Taaffe Memorial Scholarship are now being accepted until Thursday, June 30th.
Courtenay Taaffe was vibrant, determined, talented and dedicated. She had endless energy and enthusiasm for her passions in life, one of which was the sport of rugby. This scholarship was created in 2005 to honour Courtenay and her many achievements. The successful recipient will share some of the many qualities Courtenay demonstrated including a strong work ethic, both in the classroom and on the field, as well as an enthusiastic and determined personality.
Taaffe played hooker and flanker for UVic, James Bay, Crimson Tide and Team B.C. She coached the JBAA junior women, the Vancouver Island Crimson Tide junior women, the Vancouver Island Japan Club team and Stelly's Secondary Queen Bees. Courtenay set a precedent for hard work and accomplishment in the sport of women’s rugby. Courtenay passed away at the age of 29 of a rare and aggressive lymphoma.
This $1,000 scholarship is awarded annually to a female athlete who excels in rugby, academics and community service. It is open to 17-28 year old players, coaches and referees pursuing a full-time degree, diploma or certificate program at university or college on Vancouver Island. Students commencing or continuing full-time studies in the fall of 2011 are eligible.
Please complete the application form and submit to the Canadian Rugby Foundation by Thursday, June 30th.
Eligibility:
A female student currently playing, coaching or refereeing rugby on Vancouver Island who is:
1. Playing either club or university rugby.
2. A high school graduate between 17 to 28 years of age as of the end of September of the year in which the scholarship is granted.
3. Enrolled in a full-time degree (graduate or undergraduate), diploma or certificate program at a Canadian college or university for the academic year commencing in the year in which the scholarship is granted. Students commencing their studies in the Fall of 2011 are eligible.
General Guidelines:
1. Unsuccessful applicants may reapply in a subsequent year.
2. Successful recipients may not apply again.
3. The scholarship is conditional upon the acceptance and continuance in the educational program of the applicant's choice. Verification of acceptance will be required as well as a student identification number.
4. Applications may be emailed, mailed or an arrangement must be made to drop off. Faxes will not be accepted.
5. The award recipient must agree to have her name and photograph publicized. She must be prepared to promote the scholarship as requested.
Selection Criteria:
1. Strong academic achievement.
2. Recognized contribution to the rugby community.
Application Requirements:
1. A completed application form.
2. A letter, not more than 250 words, describing the reasons why you would be a worthy recipient of the Courtenay Taaffe Memorial Scholarship. Include your contribution to the rugby community, other volunteer activities, your academic achievements, your most important accomplishments and your future goals.
3. Two letters of reference from the two individuals named in your application. One must be a coach or a teacher from your school, college or university. The other must be from an individual, other than a teacher or coach, who is familiar with your community service and rugby background.
4. A high-resolution electronic photograph submitted with the application package or e-mailed to mrj@canadianrugbyfoundation.ca . We would prefer if the applicant is wearing a rugby jersey in the photo but that is not required (once submitted the photo will be the property of the Canadian Rugby Foundation).
Deadline:
Applications must be received by email, mail or arrangements to drop off in person, no later than 4:00pm on Thursday, June 30th, 2011:
Canadian Rugby Foundation
PO Box 8003
Victoria, BC
V8W 3R7
Decisions:
Scholarship winner will be notified by August 1st, 2011. Only the winner will be notified. The scholarship committee thanks all applicants for their interest in the Courtenay Taaffe Memorial Scholarship and wishes them success in the classroom and on the field.
