Vancouver, BC: British Columbia's Under-20 squad kicks off the 2011 National Women's League Finals against Manitoba on Thursday, June 30th at UBC's Wolfson Fields.
Over the next four days, BC will battle Manitoba, Ontario and Alberta for the Under-20 national title in a round-robin competition culminating on Sunday, July 3rd.
We caught up with BC U20 head coach Stephanie Murphy to talk about her squad ahead of the tournament. Here are four of British Columbia's top athletes suiting up for the U20s this week.
Paniz PahlavanluPosition: Back Row
Club: United Rugby Club
Paniz began her rugby career at Port Moody Secondary. She has represented BC at both the U17 and U19 levels and Canada at U18. Most recently, she has been selected for the Canada U20 team competing in the Nations Cup in California this July. As one of our Captains, Paniz is a speedy and smart rugby player, but it is her endless work ethic and strong leadership skills that make her a standout.
Demi StamatakisPosition: Prop
Club: Simon Fraser University
Demi hails from Killarney Secondary in Vancouver. She has represented BC at both the U17 and U19 levels. She has also been selected for the Canada U20 team competing in the Nations Cup this July. Her skill and strength in sets as well as agility and pace in the open field allow her to easily be one of the most dynamic players on the field.
Devon LucaPosition: Scrum half/ wing
Club: Burnaby Lake Rugby Club
Devon found her rugby roots at Pitt Meadows Secondary and then migrated to the Burnaby Lake Rugby Club. She has represented BC at both the U17 and U19 levels. Devon is a high intensity and commanding athlete. She is speedy and versatile in skill which will be key attributes during the tournament.
Mia RushtonPosition: Fullback/Wing
Club: United Rugby Club
Mia is a Terry Fox Secondary graduate where she began her rugby career. Mia is a swift and mighty back 3 player and her fearlessness as a ball carrier is evident. Although this is Mia's debut at the provincial level, her skill and speed are sure to impress.
For full BC rosters and more information on the 2011 National Women's League Finals visit www.nwlrugby.com2011 NWL ScheduleThursday, June 30 at UBC's Wolfson Fields
10:00am: (Tier 2) Saskatchewan vs New Brunswick
11:00am: BC U20 vs Manitoba U20
11:45am: (Tier 2) Ontario U23 vs BC U23
12:45pm: Ontario U20 vs Alberta U20
1:30pm: (Tier 1 Semifinal) Alberta vs British Columbia
3:00pm: (Tier 1 Semifinal) Ontario vs Quebec Cariboux
Friday, July 1 at UBC's Wolfson Fields
11:00am: (Tier 2) Ontario U23 vs New Brunswick
11:00am: Ontario U20 vs Manitoba U20
12:45pm: BC U20 vs Alberta U20
12:45pm: (Tier 2) Saskatchewan vs BC U23
Sunday, July 3 at UBC's Wolfson Fields
9:00am: Manitoba U20 vs Alberta U20
9:00am: (Tier 2) New Brunswick vs BC U23
10:45am: (Tier 2) Ontario U23 vs Saskatchewan
10:45am: Ontario U20 vs BC U20
10:45am: (Tier 1 Consolation Final) Loser Game 3 vs Loser Game 4
12:30pm: (Tier 1 Championship Final) Winner Game 3 vs Winner Game 4
The National Women's League Finals is an annual competition featuring the highest level of domestic women's rugby in the country. BC will field three teams for the NWL tournament scheduled for June 30th through July 3rd at the University of British Columbia's Wolfson Fields.
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