bc-rugby

Remembering Stefan Vracarevic

Tue, 22 Sep 2026 23:28:03 GMT

BC Rugby is deeply saddened by the tragic passing of Kelowna Crows RFC athlete and valued member of the rugby community, Stefan Vracarevic.

Our thoughts and hearts are with Stefan’s family, friends, teammates and the entire Kelowna Crows community during this incredibly difficult time.

In moments of hardship, we are reminded of the strength of the rugby community here in BC and the bonds that connect us through our sport.

If you would like to support Stefan’s family, please consider donating to or sharing the GoFundMe linked below.

2026 Kamloops 7s Celebrates Huge Weekend of Youth Rugby

Mon, 21 Sep 2026 06:42:50 GMT

festival weekend full of vibes

The 2026 Kamloops 7s wrapped up another successful weekend of youth Rugby 7s at McArthur Island Park, bringing together teams from across British Columbia and beyond for two days of fast-paced competition and celebration.

Held on September 19-20 in Canada’s Tournament Capital, the event once again showcased why the Kamloops 7s has established itself as the premier youth Rugby 7s events in Canada, with 110 teams competing across 10 Divisions in blazing sunshine throughout the weekend.

From the opening whistle on Saturday morning through to Sunday’s Championship matches, players battled through an action-packed schedule across the tournament’s 10 fields, with athletes competing in U18, U16 and U14 Boys and Girls Divisions.

The weekend provided an opportunity for young athletes to test themselves against some of the best Age-Grade athletes in the province and beyond, while coaches, officials, volunteers and families helped create the festival atmosphere that has become synonymous with the Kamloops 7s event.

The tournament also marked the first year that the U18 Boys and U18 Girls Elite Championship Shields were presented under their new names, recognizing two individuals who have played an important role in the growth of Rugby 7s in British Columbia.

CV Rapids Rugby lifted the Darcy Patterson Shield as they were crowned U18 Girls Elite Champions, while the Strathcona Druids hoisted the Nathan Hirayama Shield in the U18 Boys Elite Divisions.

Medal placings for each Division are below, while full results and standings from the weekend’s action can be found here.

U18 BOYS ELITE

GOLD: Strathcona Druids

SILVER: James Bay AA

BRONZE: Salish Sea Warriors

U18 GIRLS ELITE

GOLD: CV Rapids Rugby

SILVER: James Bay AA

BRONZE: Calgary Irish

U18 BOYS OPEN

GOLD: Bow Valley Grizzlies

SILVER: St Albert Rugby Club

BRONZE: Capilano RFC

U18 GIRLS OPEN

GOLD: Edmonton Peacocks

SILVER: Westshore RFC

BRONZE: Kamloops Raiders RFC

U16 BOYS COMPETITIVE

GOLD: Calgary Saints

SILVER: Abbotsford RFC Blue

BRONZE: Langley RFC

U16 GIRLS COMPETITIVE

GOLD: Calgary Mavericks

SILVER: Abbotsford RFC Blue

BRONZE: Nor’westers Athletic Association

U16 BOYS OPEN

GOLD: St Albert Rugby Club

SILVER: Capilano RFC

BRONZE: Strathcona Druids

U16 GIRLS OPEN

GOLD: Castaway Wanderers RFC

SILVER: St Albert Rugby Club

BRONZE: Kelowna/Capilano

U14 BOYS

GOLD: Castaway Wanderers RFC

SILVER: James Bay AA

BRONZE: Salish Sea Warriors

U14 GIRLS

GOLD: 1697s Rugby

SILVER: Kelowna Crows RFC

BRONZE: L.A.R.A (Langley/Abbotsford)

Away from the pitch, players, families and spectators were able to enjoy a weekend of food, merchandise and gorgeous weather at McArthur Island Park, adding to the event’s festival atmosphere.

BC Rugby would like to thank all players, coaches, officials, volunteers, tournament staff, families, supporters and partners who helped make the 2026 Kamloops 7s possible.

The organisation also extends its congratulations to every team that competed throughout the weekend and helped make the tournament another memorable celebration of youth Rugby 7s in British Columbia.

With another successful edition now in the books, the Kamloops 7s continues to provide a valuable platform for young players to compete, develop and enjoy the game – we’ll see you all again next year!

Kamloops 7s Shields Renamed to Honour BC Rugby Icons

Tue, 15 Sep 2026 22:35:48 GMT

new look for u18 elite champions shields

The U18 Boys and U18 Girls Elite Champions Shields at the Kamloops 7s have been renamed to celebrate two individuals who have made outstanding contributions to the growth and development of Rugby 7s in British Columbia and across Canada.

Beginning with the 2026 Kamloops 7s, the U18 Boys Elite Champions Shield will be known as the Nathan Hirayama Shield, honouring one of Canada’s most accomplished Rugby 7s athletes.

Hirayama, a longtime member of Canada’s Men’s Rugby Sevens program who represented BC throughout his youth, has represented his country at the highest level and played a significant role in the growth and profile of the sport in Canada. The renaming recognises his achievements and his lasting impact on Rugby 7s.

The U18 Girls Elite Champions Shield will become the Darcy Patterson Shield, recognising Patterson’s exceptional contribution to the development of Rugby 7s both in British Columbia and beyond.

Patterson was instrumental in creating the Kamloops 7s event and has continued to play a significant role in growing the tournament and the wider Rugby 7s community over the past decade. Her work has helped create opportunities for young athletes in BC and contributed to the continued growth of the sport both provincially and nationally.

The new shield names will be in place from the 2026 Kamloops 7s onwards, ensuring that the achievements of future champions are forever connected to two individuals who have helped shape the Rugby 7s landscape in BC and Canada.

The 2026 Kamloops 7s takes place September 19-20 at McArthur Island Park, with the tournament bringing together youth teams from across BC and beyond for the largest youth Rugby 7s tournament in Canada.

Kamloops 7s: All You Need To Know!

Mon, 14 Sep 2026 16:12:33 GMT

Canada’s largest youth Rugby 7s tournament returns September 19-20

The stage is set for the 2026 Kamloops 7s!

Canada’s largest youth Rugby 7s tournament returns to McArthur Island Park on September 19-20, with more than 120 teams from British Columbia and beyond set to battle it out across 10 divisions and 10 fields.

The two-day tournament will feature Boys’ and Girls’ U18, U16 and U14 divisions, bringing hundreds of young athletes, coaches, officials, families and supporters together for one of the biggest weekends on the BC Rugby calendar.

With plenty of action on the field, there will also be food vendors and a merchandise tent on site throughout the weekend. Be sure to pick up your official Kamloops 7s and BC Rugby merchandise while supplies last.

EVENT INFORMATION

VENUE: McArthur Island Park, 1655 Island Pkwy, Kamloops

DATES: September 19-20

VENUE MAP: See above for Venue Map

PARKING: Free parking is available around the edge of McArthur Island Park. Please note that other sporting events are taking place in the area this weekend, so parking may be limited.

CHANGEROOMS: No team changerooms will be allocated during the tournament. With many players attending, teams are asked to change before arriving at the fields.

WASHROOMS: Washrooms are available throughout the park.

WATER: Please bring a reusable water bottle and make use of the water stations located throughout the park.

CONCESSIONS: Food vendors will be on site throughout the weekend.

MERCHANDISE: We will have a merchandise stand available on site selling both Kamloops 7s and BC Rugby merch.

POOLS & SCHEDULES: For all pool, schedule and tournament information, visit the official Kamloops 7s website or download the official Kamloops 7s app on your smartphone.

STREAMING: Please note that livestreaming will not be available due to poor signal coverage in the McArthur Island Park area. BC Rugby will record the U18 Elite Divisions and post match footage on our YouTube channel.

AWARDS: Sunday’s medal presentations will take place in the designated Awards Area. Teams are asked not to set up in this area on Sunday and should make their way to the Awards Area following their respective medal matches. Gold, silver and bronze medals will be presented in each division.

BE RESPECTFUL : Rugby simply does not happen without the officials, therapists, medics, staff and volunteers who make events like Kamloops 7s possible. We ask everyone attending the tournament to be respectful and patient towards all event personnel throughout the weekend. BC Rugby has a ZERO TOLERANCE policy for abuse, and the BC Rugby Code of Conduct applies to all participants, coaches, team management and attendees.

ABOUT KAMLOOPS 7s

Kamloops 7s is the largest youth Rugby 7s tournament in Canada and attracts teams from across British Columbia and beyond. Specifically designed for Girls’ and Boys’ teams in the U14-U18 categories, the tournament delivers fun, action-packed games in a picturesque setting. Taking place over two days in mid-September, the tournament is a fantastic celebration of emerging youth Rugby talent and provides a fun, action-packed weekend for athletes and fans alike.

2026 BC Rugby Age-Grade Fall Season Key Dates

Fri, 11 Sep 2026 16:19:13 GMT

all roads lead to age-grade club finals

BC Rugby is delighted to announce the key dates for the upcoming 2026 Age-Grade Fall Season with all roads leading to the 2026 BC Rugby Age-Grade Club Finals at Langford’s Starlight Stadium on Sunday, December 6.

The countdown to another exciting junior Club season in British Columbia’s Lower Mainland has officially begun. The season will kick off on September 13 with its traditional Rugby 7s Festivals, leading to the 2026 Kamloops 7s on September 19-20, before swinging to full XVs for the opening game week on September 27.

Clubs across the Lower Mainland, TORA and Vancouver Island regions will compete league and festival competition across U18, U16 and U14 Boys and Girls Divisions. Regional Play-Offs and Finals will commence on November 22, with the top U16 and U18 Boys and Girls Teams from the Island and Mainland contesting the 2026 BC Rugby Age-Grade Club Finals at Starlight Stadium in Langford on December 6.

The 2026 season promises another exciting chapter in the development of junior rugby across the province. From emerging players experiencing their first taste of competitive Club rugby to established Age-Grade athletes chasing provincial glory, there will be opportunities for players of all levels to test themselves and represent their clubs.

Key Dates are as follows:

September 13, 2026 – 7s Festivals (Various)
September 19-20, 2026 – Kamloops 7s
September 27, 2026 – Gameweek
October 4, 2026 – Gameweek
October 11, 2026 – Thanksgiving Weekend (No Games)
October 18, 2026 – Gameweek
October 25, 2026 – Gameweek
November 1, 2026 – Gameweek
November 8, 2026 – Gameweek
November 15, 2026 – Gameweek
November 22, 2026 – Regional Play-Offs/Finals
November 29, 2026 – Regional Play-Offs/Finals
December 6, 2026 – 2026 BC Rugby Age-Grade Club Finals

Play-Off Formats for all Leagues will be posted on the BC Rugby website once confirmed.

This Age-Grade season will also mark the continued rollout of the new Play HQ Registration system. As the transition to the new system continues, fixtures and leagues are being added into the new Play HQ system ahead of the season’s start. This will take time, but they will soon appear on the BC Rugby website – please be patient while our staff addresses this.

BC Rugby is encouraging all players and Club staff to complete their registration as soon as possible on Play HQ ahead of the new Fall season.

SUPPORT THE BC RUGBY AGE-GRADE CLUB FINALS

The 2026 BC Rugby Age-Grade Club Finals will bring the province’s best young rugby players together at Starlight Stadium in Langford for a day celebrating competition, community and the future of rugby in BC.

With teams, families, coaches, volunteers and supporters travelling from communities across the Lower Mainland, TORA and Island regions, the BC Rugby Age-Grade Club Finals provides a fantastic opportunity for local and provincial businesses to connect with a passionate and engaged rugby audience.

BC Rugby is currently welcoming organizations interested in partnering with and supporting the 2026 Age-Grade Club Finals. Sponsorship opportunities are available for businesses looking to support youth sport, showcase their brand and become part of an exciting day at one of BC’s premier sporting venues.

To learn more about sponsorship opportunities, please contact Rob Bartlett, BC Rugby Marketing Director, at rbartlett@bcrugby.com .

CEO Statement - September 4, 2026

Fri, 04 Sep 2026 19:27:00 GMT

I am honoured to take on the role of Chief Executive Officer of BC Rugby and grateful for the confidence the Board has placed in me, as well as for the support and encouragement I have received from across the rugby community during my time with the organisation.

My commitment is straightforward: to grow and strengthen rugby across British Columbia, while continuing to improve the quality of our competitions, programs and the experience we provide to everyone involved in our game. That means putting our members, athletes, coaches, officials, volunteers and clubs at the centre of what we do, while building a BC Rugby that is ambitious, accountable and sustainable for the future.

I recognize that not everyone in our wider rugby community will have the same view of me or of my appointment. I respect that. I also understand that, for some in particular, my appointment may bring forward concerns or uncertainty. I don't expect trust or confidence to be given simply because I have been appointed to this role. I believe those things are earned — through how I conduct myself, how I listen, how I collaborate, and ultimately through the results we achieve together. My experiences throughout rugby have taught me the importance of reflection, meaningful action, and creating an environment where people feel safe, supported, and able to speak openly. I ask only for the opportunity to do that work and to earn the trust and support of our rugby community over time.

Rugby has been a significant part of my life at every level — as a player, coach, manager and, perhaps most importantly, as a father of three young women, two of whom are rugby players. Those experiences have given me a broad perspective on our game and on what it means to be part of a rugby community.

My experience at the highest levels of the game, including international and professional rugby, has also taught me some important lessons. Perhaps the most important is that challenging goals are achieved through collaboration, communication and a willingness to bring people together around a common purpose. I believe that principle will be essential as we work to move BC Rugby forward.

There is enormous potential in rugby in British Columbia. We have passionate clubs, talented athletes, committed coaches and officials, dedicated volunteers and a strong rugby community. My goal is to help bring those pieces together, strengthen the foundations of our game and create more opportunities for people to participate, develop and succeed in rugby.

I look forward to listening, learning, working alongside our members and partners, and building the next chapter of BC Rugby together.

John Tait

BC Rugby CEO

For media inquiries, please contact: media@bcrugby.com

BC Rugby Names John Tait as Chief Executive Officer

Fri, 04 Sep 2026 19:26:59 GMT

Vancouver, B.C. — British Columbia Rugby Union (BC Rugby) is pleased to announce the appointment of John Tait as its new Chief Executive Officer, effective immediately. The announcement follows a thorough search process including numerous qualified candidates and caps a five-year journey with the organisation during which Tait has become an integral part of BC Rugby's leadership and success.

A former Canadian national team player and coach, Tait brings a track record of success at the highest levels of the sport. Tait joined BC Rugby in 2021 as Technical Director, where he played a central role in strengthening the province's coaching pathways and high-performance programs. He has twice served as Interim CEO, steadying and guiding the organisation through periods of transition while continuing to demonstrate the strategic vision, operational strength, and dedication to the sport that makes him a natural choice for the permanent role.

"John has spent the last five years earning the trust and respect of our board, clubs, and staff," said Bob Strachan, Chair of the BC Rugby CEO search committee. "His time as Interim CEO showed us exactly what he could do at the helm — steady leadership, a clear vision for growing the game in this province, and a genuine commitment to everyone who plays and works in rugby here in B.C. The Board is confident that John is the right person to lead BC Rugby into its next chapter with a new strategic plan."

"I'm honoured to take on this role and to continue the work we've been building together over these past five years," said John Tait, incoming CEO of BC Rugby. "Rugby in this province means a great deal to me, from our grassroots clubs right up to our high-performance athletes. My focus is on building the programs and the culture that drive real success on the field: winning teams, strong pathways from club rugby, and a province that produces players who compete at the highest level."

BC Rugby is the governing body for rugby in British Columbia, representing thousands of players through its network of member clubs across the province.

For media inquiries, please contact: media@bcrugby.com

Register for 2026/27 Level 1 Officiating Courses

Fri, 14 Aug 2026 20:09:20 GMT

get involved as a rugby official.

We are delighted to confirm several Level 1 Courses to be conducted throughout the province across the 2026/27 Fall-Spring Season.

A new season means new opportunities to get involved in Rugby Officiating.

Officiating helps with your own personal and professional development, and it helps broaden your Rugby knowledge. It keeps you both physically and mentally fit and is incredibly rewarding.

Rugby Officials come from all backgrounds, from ex-National players to armchair enthusiasts who wanted to become more involved with the sport. Anyone can become a Rugby referee with the right attitude.

Courses will take place on the following dates:

September 27, 2026 - Lower Mainland - Vancouver
October 4, 2026 - Interior - Kelowna
February 7, 2027 - South Island - Victoria
February 21, 2027 - Lower Mainland - Coquitlam
April 4, 2027 - Thompson Okanagan - Vernon
April 28, 2027 - Kootenays - Cranbrook
May 15, 2027 - Northern BC – Terrace

Times will be sent to individuals once they have registered and paid. Courses feature s six-hour on-field component from 10:00am-4:00pm as well as a two-hour online component from 7:00pm-9:00pm the Wednesday before.

Registrants must complete all course prerequisites before taking the on-field component. Learn more here .

2026/27 BC Rugby Senior Club Season Key Dates

Fri, 14 Aug 2026 16:10:14 GMT

all roads lead to senior club finals!

It’s time to register for the 2026/27 BC Rugby Senior Club Season – check out the key dates for this year’s campaign below.

The countdown to another exciting season Senior Club Rugby in British Columbia is officially underway.

Clubs and players across the Lower Mainland are preparing to return to the field, with the new Senior season set to kick off on Saturday, September 12, 2026, launching another full slate of exciting competition across seven Senior Men’s and Women’s Divisions including our Men’s and Women’s Premier Leagues.

From opening weekend to Spring 2027, teams will compete for the opportunity to finish their season on the biggest stage. The campaign will culminate with the 2027 BC Rugby Senior Club Finals on Saturday, May 8, 2027, when the province’s top Club teams will battle for Championship honours.

A new addition to this year’s calendar sees the introduction of a five-match Senior Women’s Blue vs. Gold Series to run alongside the Women’s Premier League/Division 1. This Series is being developed in partnership with Rugby Canada and Senior Women’s National XVs Head Coach, Kevin Rouet, and will take place across five weekends in the Spring. More information on this Series and its Pathway will be announced in due course.

The Men’s Premier League welcomes two additional Clubs in Bayside Sharks RFC and the returning Vancouver Rowing Club, with the Pacific Pride no longer competing.

Full Play-Off formats for all Divisions will be confirmed in the coming weeks and posted on the BC Rugby website.

This season will also mark the continued rollout of the new Play HQ Registration system. As the transition to the new system continues, fixtures and leagues are being added into the new Play HQ system ahead of the season’s start. This will take time, but they will soon appear on the BC Rugby website – please be patient while our staff addresses this.

With the new season fast approaching, BC Rugby is encouraging players to complete their registration as soon as possible on Play HQ and connect with their Clubs ahead of the opening weekend on September 12.

2026/27 key dates

September 12, 2026 – Season starts
September 19, 2026 – Gameweek, Kamloops 7s
September 26, 2026 – Gameweek, Women’s Premier League starts
October 3, 2026 – Gameweek
October 10, 2026 – Thanksgiving (no games)
October 17, 2026 – Gameweek
October 24, 2026 – Gameweek
October 31, 2026 – Gameweek
November 7, 2026 – Gameweek
November 14, 2026 – Gameweek
November 21, 2026 – Gameweek
November 28, 2026 – Gameweek
December 5, 2026 – Make-Up Weekend
December 12, 2026 – Winter Break Starts
January 9, 2027 – BC Coaching Course
January 16, 2027 – Gameweek / Blue vs. Gold Game 1
January 23, 2027 – Gameweek
January 30, 2027 – Gameweek
February 6, 2027 – Gameweek
February 13, 2027 – Family Day / Make-Up / Blue vs. Gold Game 2
February 20, 2027 – Gameweek
February 27, 2027 – Gameweek
March 6, 2027 – HSBC SVNS Vancouver / Blue vs. Gold Game 3
March 13, 2027 – Gameweek
March 20, 2027 – Gameweek / Blue vs. Gold Game 4
March 27, 2027 – Easter Weekend / Blue vs. Gold Game 5
April 3, 2027 – Gameweek
April 10, 2027 – Gameweek
April 17, 2027 – Make-Up Weekend
April 24, 2027 – BC Rugby Senior Club Quarter-Finals Weekend
May 1, 2027 – BC Rugby Senior Club Semi-Finals Weekend
May 8, 2027 – BC Rugby Senior Club Finals Weekend

Terrace, Rogues Crowned Saratoga Cup Champions

Wed, 12 Aug 2026 00:38:14 GMT

EPIC WEEKEND IN FERNIE, BC

Terrace Northmen RFC regained the Men’s Saratoga Cup while the Rocky Mountain Rogues celebrated its maiden Women’s Saratoga Cup Championship after an incredible weekend of action in Fernie.

The 2026 Saratoga Cup will go down as one of the biggest and most memorable editions of the annual BC Rugby Provincial Championships for our Northern and Interior Leagues.

Hosted by the Elk Valley Bulls in Fernie on August 8-9, the tournament brought together some of the best Senior Men’s and Women’s teams from across the Central Interior, Okanagan and Kootenays for a weekend of incredible action albeit in smoky conditions.

In the Men’s XVs Championship, the Terrace Northmen RFC recaptured the Saratoga Cup, defeating host club Elk Valley Bulls 14-5 in the championship final to claim a historic fifth title.

The Northmen’s run to victory was particularly impressive given the intensity of the weekend. For the first time in Saratoga Cup history, both Men’s XVs Semi-Finals went into extra time, producing two hard-fought contests and setting the stage for a dramatic final day. Terrace defeated Rocky Mountain Rogues 38-28 while the Elk Valley Bulls defeated the defending champions Vernon Jackals 38-24.

Terrace ultimately emerged as the last team standing, while the Elk Valley Bulls capped off an outstanding weekend on home soil. The Rocky Mountain Rogues finished third, with a 34-5 win over Vernon.

The Women’s Saratoga Cup competition produced perhaps the weekend’s biggest breakthrough. After finishing as Saratoga Cup runners-up in 2023, 2024 and 2025, the Rocky Mountain Rogues finally broke through to claim their first-ever championship.

The Rogues defeated defending champions Yeti Rugby 15-12 in a fantastic final, turning the tables on the team that denied them the title in 2025. After three consecutive runner-up finishes, the long-awaited championship was a fitting reward for a program that had consistently been among the competition’s best.

The Women’s 7s tournament also showcased the continued growth and reach of the Saratoga Cup. Trail RFC made its second appearance at the event, building on its 2025 debut, while the Nelson Valhalla Valkyries made their Saratoga Cup debut in Fernie.

Valhalla made an immediate impact, winning one match in its first appearance at the tournament – an encouraging sign for the growth of women’s rugby in the Kootenays.

Elk Valley/Penticton – the “BullPen” - rounded out the women’s field, finishing fifth overall after combining forces for the tournament.

For Elk Valley, the weekend was about more than the result. Hosting the Saratoga Cup brought the province’s top regional teams to Fernie and gave the local rugby community an opportunity to showcase the club, the town and the sport in the Elk Valley.

With dramatic extra-time semi-finals, new champions, returning contenders and a first-time participant making an immediate impact, the 2026 Saratoga Cup delivered a fitting celebration of summer rugby in British Columbia.

BC Rugby would like to thank the Elk Valley Bulls for hosting this year’s event, alongside the team of volunteers, Officials, medical therapists that made it happen.

All photos are courtesy of Vince Mo and BC Rugby. A full breakdown of results are below.

2026 saratoga cup results

SUNDAY, AUGUST 9

MEN’S XVs RESULTS

Saratoga Cup Final: Terrace Northmen RFC 14-5 Elk Valley Bulls

3 ^rd -Place Play-Off: Rocky Mountain Rogues 34-5 Vernon Jackals

WOMEN’S 7s RESULTS

Women’s Saratoga Cup Final: Rocky Mountain Rogues 15-12 Yeti Rugby

3 ^rd Place Play-Off: Trail RFC 17-5 Valhalla Valkyries

Semi-Final: Rocky Mountain Rogues 19-0 Trail RFC

Semi-Final: Yeti Rugby 36-0 Valhalla Valkyries

Quarter-Final: Valhalla Valkyries 15-5 Elk Valley Bulls

SATURDAY, AUGUST 8

MEN’S XVs RESULTS

Semi-Final: Rocky Mountain Rogues 28-38 Terrace Northmen

Semi-Final: Elk Valley RFC 38-24 Vernon Jackals RFC

WOMEN’S 7s RESULTS

Yeti Rugby 33-0 Valhalla Valkyries

Elk Valley RFC 17-19 Trail RFC

Valhalla Valkyries 7-27 Rocky Mountain Rogues

Trail RFC 0-54 Yeti Rugby

Elk Valley RFC 15-26 Rocky Mountain Rogues

Yeti Rugby 43-0 Elk Valley RFC

Rocky Mountain Rogues 10-17 Trail RFC

Valhalla Valkyries 15-5 Elk Valley RFC

Rocky Mountain Rogues 5-31 Yeti Rugby

Trail RFC 17-10 Valhalla Valkyries

2026 Saratoga Cup: All You Need to Know!

Tue, 04 Aug 2026 23:11:11 GMT

Big weekend coming up in Fernie.

The 2026 BC Rugby Saratoga Cup takes place this August 8-9 weekend – here is everything you need to know about the event!

This year’s tournament, hosted in Fernie, features two full days of action that will see Men’s and Women’s Champions crowned in our annual summer season finale.

A staple of the BC Rugby calendar, the Saratoga Cup brings together the top Senior Men’s and Women’s teams from across the Central Interior, Okanagan and Kootenays regions for an exciting weekend of Championship Rugby in a festival-style setting. With the stunning Kootenays and Rocky Mountains as this year’s backdrop, it is sure to be an incredible weekend of rugby.

Matches will take place at the Max Turyk Community Centre (897 Mt Washburn St, Fernie, BC, V0B 1M3) on Saturday, August 8 and Sunday, August 9. The Men’s XVs competition features semi-finals and finals, with the Women’s 7s competition being played over a round robin/seeded-play-off format.

Four teams will contest the Men’s Saratoga Cup while six teams will battle it out for the Women’s Saratoga Cup. Both events will be livestreamed on the BC Rugby YouTube channel.

See below for the full breakdown including schedule, livestreams and more.

The 2026 Saratoga Cup will be livestreamed by BC Rugby and available to watch on our YouTube channel – click below for the Playlist.

event details

schedule & livestream

Venue: Max Turyk Community Centre (897 Mt Washburn St, Fernie, BC, V0B 1M3)

Venue Map: Please see the above venue map.

Dates: August 8-9, 2026

Parking: Parking is available at the venue.

Merchandise: BC Rugby will be selling Saratoga Cup & BC Rugby Merchandise at the event.

Men's Saratoga Cup Line-Up

Vernon Jackals RFC (Okanagan Division Winners/Defending Champions)
Terrace Northmen RFC (Central Interior Division Winners)
Rocky Mountain Rogues (Kootenays Division Winners)
Elk Valley RFC (Kootenays Division Runners-Up/Hosts)

In the Men’s XVs Competition, hosts Elk Valley RFC will be joined by Kootenay Division winners and close rivals Rocky Mountain Rogues, who will be hoping to reassert their dominance in a competition they won three times from 2021-2023. Defending champions Vernon Jackals RFC, who defeated Yeti Rugby in the Okanagan Final, will be out to make it successive Championships and start their own dynasty. Terrace Northmen RFC completes the line-up as Central Interior Division winners and will be looking to add another Saratoga Cup victory to match their Men’s/Women’s double in 2024.

Women's Saratoga Cup Line-Up

Elk Valley RFC/Penticton Harlequins
Rocky Mountain Rogues
Trail RFC
Yeti Rugby
Valhalla Valkyries

The 2026 Women’s Saratoga Cup Women’s 7s Saratoga Cup competition will see five teams compete for glory in Fernie. Hosts Elk Valley RFC will join forces with the Penticton Harlequins. Rocky Mountain Rogues will be aiming for its first Championship while defending champions Yeti Rugby are aiming for a second successive title. Trail RFC is attending its second straight Saratoga Cup, and the line-up is completed by newcomers, Valhalla Valkyries, of Nelson. The format is a five-team round robin on Day 1 to determine Play-Off seedings. The top three teams will get a bye to Sunday's semi-finals, with 4th vs. 5th place teams to face off in a quarter-final.

The 2026 Saratoga Cup Schedule is as follows:

DAY 1 (ALL TIMES MDT)

10:00am – Women’s RR1 - Yeti Rugby vs. Valhalla Valkyries

10:20am – Women’s RR2 – Elk Valley/Penticton vs. Trail RFC

10:40am – BREAK

11:00am – Women's RR3 - Valhalla Valkyries vs. Rocky Mountain Rogues

11:20am – Women’s RR4 – Trail RFC vs. Yeti Rugby

11:40am - BREAK

12:00pm – Women’s RR5 – Elk Valley/Penticton vs. Rocky Mountain Rogues

12:30pm – Men’s Semi-Final 1 – Rocky Mountain Rogues vs. Terrace RFC

1:50pm - Women's RR6 - Yeti Rugby vs. Elk Valley/Penticton

2:10pm – Women’s RR7 – Rocky Mountain Rogues vs. Trail RFC

2:30pm – BREAK

2:50pm – Women’s RR8 – Valhalla Valkyries vs. Elk Valley/Penticton

3:10pm - Women's RR9 - Rocky Mountain Rogues vs. Yeti Rugby

3:30pm - Women's RR10 - Trail RFC vs. Valhalla Valkyries

3:55pm – Men’s Semi-Final 2 – Vernon Jackals RFC vs. Elk Valley RFC

DAY 2 (ALL TIMES MDT)

11:00am – Women’s Quarter-Final - 4th Place vs. 5th Place

11:20am – Women’s Semi-Final 1 – 2nd Place vs. 3rd Place

11:40am – BREAK

12:10pm – Women's Semi-Final 2 - 1st Place vs. Winner 4th/5th

12:35pm – Men’s 3 ^rd -Place Match

2:00pm - Women's 3rd-Place Match

2:20pm – Women’s Saratoga Cup Final

2:40pm - Women's Presentations

3:00pm – Men’s Saratoga Cup Final

4:15pm - Men's Presentations

introducing the match officials!

The 2026 Saratoga Cup Officiating Team is as follows:

Chris Assmus – Referee

Ben Lambrick – Referee

Ryan Lambrick – Referee

Phil Webster – Referee

Joel van Meer – Referee

Cam Mercer – Referee

Joyce Kendon – Referee

Darren Cho – Assistant Referee/Tech Zone Manager

Min Merritt – Assistant Referee/Tech Zone Manager

John Merritt - Assistant Referee/Tech Zone Manager

Georgia Webster – Tech Zone Manager

Remembering Joan Porter

Sat, 01 Aug 2026 23:29:26 GMT

BC Rugby is deeply saddened to learn of the passing of BC Rugby Hall of Famer Joan Porter, whose lifelong dedication, passion and support helped shape rugby in British Columbia for more than six decades.

Inducted into the BC Rugby Hall of Fame in 2019 alongside her beloved husband, Jim, Joan was a tireless champion of rugby and one of our community’s greatest ambassadors. Introduced to rugby together while attending Magee Secondary School in 1952, Joan and Jim became inseparable figures in BC's rugby community, with each making an extraordinary contribution to the game in their own way.

Joan was the driving force behind the BC Rugby Supporters Club, working tirelessly to build a vibrant rugby community by welcoming former players, supporters and newcomers alike. A familiar face on the sidelines across the Lower Mainland, she was a passionate advocate for women's rugby, a devoted supporter of the Vancouver Rowing Club, and a gracious host to many touring clubs and international teams visiting British Columbia through the years.

Together, Joan and Jim embodied the very best of rugby's values. They fostered friendships, strengthened communities and promoted BC and Canadian rugby both here and abroad. Their combined legacy has been recognised through numerous honours, including the Joan Spray Award, the Jack Pattison Award, the BC Presidents Award, and Lifetime and Honorary Memberships across several rugby organisations.

Joan's warmth and generosity to the rugby family left a lasting impact on generations of players, volunteers and supporters. Her legacy will continue to inspire all who knew her and all who benefit from the thriving rugby community she helped build.

An avid Club Rugby fan and attendee of BC Rugby events, Joan will be sorely missed on the sidelines at the Rowing Club, Meraloma Club and, more recently, the UBCOB Ravens, where she would hold court with her infectious sense of humour and cutting wit.

Everyone at BC Rugby extends our sincere condolences to the Porter family, their many friends, and all those whose lives Joan touched.

She will be greatly missed and fondly remembered.

2026 BC Summer Games Recap

Thu, 30 Jul 2026 00:09:02 GMT

Fraser River Rules in Kelowna.

Fraser River (Zone 4) clinched a maiden Rugby 7s gold medal as the 2026 BC Summer Games wrapped up following an epic weekend of action in Kelowna, with Vancouver Island (Zone 6) earning silver and Fraser Valley (Zone 3) taking home bronze.

The U17 Girls Rugby 7s Competition saw eight Zones compete for medals across a three-day event on July 24-26 at Kelowna’s Rutland Recreation Park. Close to 100 athletes were selected, alongside 24 coaches and 11 Match Officials.

The 2026 Games also marked the return of Zone 7 (North West) and, for the first time in BC Summer Games Rugby 7s history, included athletes from Haida Gwaii.

Final Placings for the 2026 BC Summer Games Rugby 7s:

1 ^st Place – Fraser River (Zone 4)

2 ^nd Place – Vancouver Island Central Coastal (Zone 6)

3rd Place – Fraser Valley (Zone 3)

4th Place – Thompson-Okanagan (Zone 2)

5 ^th Place – Vancouver Coastal (Zone 5)

6 ^th Place – Cariboo-North East (Zone 8)

7 ^th Place – Kootenays (Zone 1)

8 ^th Place – North West (Zone 7)

The competition format saw Zones split into two Pools, with each team playing three round robin matches to determine pool placings. The top two of each Pool advanced to the gold medal semi-finals, with the bottom two entering the fifth-place semi-finals. Winners then progressed to the Gold/Silver game in the top pool and 5th/6th game in the lower pool. Losing teams played off for bronze/4th game in top pool and 7th/8th in lower pool.

Full results can be found below.

All photos courtesy of Rick MacDonald .

Gold Medal Match

Fraser River 22-5 Vancouver Island Central Coast

Bronze Medal Match

Fraser Valley 22-17 Thompson-Okanagan

Semi-Finals

Fraser Valley 10-20 Fraser River

Vancouver Island Central Coast 22-5 Thompson-Okanagan

5 ^th -Place Final

Vancouver 27-12

7 ^th -Place Final

North West 5-19 Kootenays

Semi-Finals

Vancouver 45-0 North West

Cariboo-North East 36-0 Kootenays

POOL A

Final Pool Placings:

Fraser Valley
Thompson-Okanagan
Cariboo-North East
Vancouver

Results:

Vancouver Coastal 0-31 Fraser Valley

Thompson-Okanagan 29-19 Cariboo-North East

Vancouver Coastal 21-22 Thompson-Okanagan

Cariboo-North East 17-31 Fraser Valley

Cariboo-North East 19-15 Vancouver Coastal

Fraser Valley 27-7 Thompson-Okanagan

POOL B

Final Pool Placings

Vancouver Island Central Coast
Fraser River
North West
Kootenays

Results:

Kootenays 0-48 Fraser River

Vancouver Island Central Coast 51-0 North West

Fraser River 44-0 North West

Kootenays 5-42 Vancouver Island Central Coast

Kootenays 10-31 North West

Vancouver Island Central Coast 27-17 Fraser River

BC Bears U19 & U17 XVs Return From Ontario

Mon, 27 Jul 2026 16:31:55 GMT

BC Bears U17 & U19 XVs return home after tour.

The BC Bears U19 and U17 XVs Teams returned home from Ontario as the 2026 Canadian U19 Rugby Championships and 2026 O’Neills Challenge Cup concluded.

At the 2026 CRCs in Guelph, the BC Bears had to settle for silver in both the U19 Men’s and U19 Women’s competition. After amassing three victories each against Atlantic, Alberta and Quebec throughout the week, Sunday’s Final fixture against the Ontario once again acted as the Championship decider for both programs.

The Bears U19 Women came agonisingly close to making it back-to-back CRCs Championships under Head Coach, Jake Thiel, and Assistant Coach Scott Hunter. The Bears defended valiantly but two tries in the final two minutes from Ontario sealed a 17-7 victory for the hosts. Prior to 2025, the Bears U19 Women’s Program had not won a game at the Canadian U19 Championships; the program has now won one Championship and one silver medal in the past two years.

The BC Bears U19 Men battled hard but ultimately succumbed 44-12 to a strong Rugby Ontario Blues team, inspired by a fantastic performance from their captain and No. 10, Jack Gore. For the Bears U19 men, it marked a third-successive silver medal showing at the national championships.

The BC Bears U17 Boys and Girls Programs contested the 2026 O’Neills Challenge Cup alongside their U19 counterparts at the University of Guelph. The shares were spoiled as the Bears and Ontario Blues celebrated one Series victory apiece.

The BC Bears U17 Girls lifted the O’Neills Challenge Cup for the second successive year after achieving a 2-1 Series win in their three matches against the Blues. The BC Bears U17 Boys battled the Blues all the way, winning Game 2 to force the decider, but were denied a second successive Cup win in an intense final game.

Full results and match videos are below.

All photos courtesy of Matthew Martin and Oscar Warburton.

BC Rugby would like to thank all our sponsors and partners for their continued support of Rugby in BC: Pomerleau, Malahat Skywalk, O’Neills, CTMS Travel Group, Hub, GFL, Purdey Group, The Limona Group, Holiday Inn Express, Coastland Wood Industries, Keycorp, Wales McLelland Construction, JBW Commercial, NAC, Pacific Plumbing, Heading & Refrigeration, Chandos and Copcan.

BC BEARS U19 MEN CRCs RESULTS

July 22: BC Bears 59-12 Atlantic Rock

July 23: BC Bears 55-3 Alberta Wolfpack

July 24: BC Bears 57-17. Rugby Quebec

July 26: BC Bears 12-44 Rugby Ontario Blues

BC BEARS U19 WOMEN CRCs RESULTS

July 21: BC Bears 12-0 Atlantic Rock

July 23: BC Bears 51-0 Alberta Wolfpack

July 24: BC Bears 63-5 Rugby Quebec

July 26: BC Bears 7-17 Rugby Ontario Blues

All match videos for the 2026 CRCs can be viewed here .

BC BEARS U19 MEN’S SQUAD

Benard Bjorndal – Abbotsford RFC

Ben Shepherd – UBCO Heat

Dallin Westerlund – TWU Spartans

Daniel Turvey – Kamloops Raiders RFC

Davis Heppell – TWU Spartans

Dexter Tornquist – Queen’s University

Elijah Palov – UBC Thunderbirds

Evan Carlson – TWU Spartans

Everett Pinkoski – Kelowna Crows RFC

Ewan Webber-Smith – UBC Thunderbirds

Finn Murphy – McGill University

Gavin Kelly – UVIC Vikes

Grady Watt – NIVRU

Greg Putterill – Pacific Pride

Holden Sawatzky – UBCOB Ravens

Jack MacAlister – Queen’s University

James Walker – Langley RFC

Kai Reynolds – Kelowna Crows RFC

Kayden Dunn – Bayside Sharks RFC

Luke Prest – Cowichan RFC

Massimo Ruben – Salish Sea Warriors

Matthew George – Queen’s University

Michael Oughtred – UVIC Vikes

Ryelly MacDonald – Abbotsford RFC

Samuel Blundell – Pacific Pride

Simroy John – Pacific Pride

COACHES: Curry Hitchborn (Capilano RFC), Didier Banse (UBC Thunderbirds), Nate Mantle (Bayside Sharks RFC)

MANAGER: Ken McGovern

BC BEARS U19 WOMEN’S SQUAD

Abi Stanley – Vancouver Thunderbirds/James Bay AA

Amber Vallance – Abbotsford RFC

Amelia Handysides – Cowichan RFC

Angelina Boswell – Vancouver Thunderbirds

Anna Plate – Vancouver Thunderbirds

Asia Olynk – James Bay AA

Belle Rousseau – Vancouver Thunderbirds/James Bay AA

Briar Tait – James Bay AA

Charlie Hutton – CV Rapids Rugby

Claudia Vallance – Abbotsford RFC

Ellie Brandwood – James Bay AA

Emilie Sinclair – Langley RFC

Gwenlili Jones – University of Bath

Hailey Carroll – James Bay AA

Maja Olcen – Vancouver Thunderbirds/James Bay AA

Makella Smortschevsky – Capilano RFC

Marin O’Regan – Castaway Wanderers RFC

Poppy-Anne Elcock – Vancouver Thunderbirds/United Rugby

Raffielle Barrack – Cowichan RFC

Rhaea Geddert – Abbotsford RFC

Sasha McKee – Westshore RFC

Savannah Pelletier – Vancouver Thunderbirds/Abbotsford RFC

Sophie Hayes – Castaway Wanderers RFC

Sophie Weeks – University of Ottawa

Tayla Kempf – Abbotsford RFC

COACHES: Jake Thiel (UBC Thunderbirds), Scott Hunter (Abbotsford RFC)

MANAGER: Kelly Hanvey

BC BEARS U19 XVs at the 2026 CRCs

BC BEARS U17 BOYS 2026 O’NEILLS CHALLENGE CUP

July 20: BC Bears 21-37 Ontario Blues

July 22: BC Bears 26-14 Ontario Blues

July 25: BC Bears 12-27 Ontario Blues

BC BEARS U17 GIRLS 2026 O’NEILLS CHALLENGE CUP

July 20: BC Bears 26-19 Ontario Blues

July 22: BC Bears 24-21 Ontario Blues

July 25: BC Bears 20-24 Ontario Blues

All 2026 O'Neills Challenge Cup Match Vides can be viewed here .

BC BEARS U17 BOYS SQUAD

Austin Andrews – UBCOB Ravens

Beau Morgan – Meraloma RFC

Cameron Jones – Abbotsford RFC

Daniel Sawyer – Capilano RFC

Daniel Watkins – Abbotsford RFC

Dom Tapparo – Abbotsford RFC

Drayden Dhinjal – UBCOB Ravens

Evann Postma – Abbotsford RFC

Gage Kempton – Bayside Sharks RFC

Gavin MacDonald – Cowichan RFC

Hamid El Yousef – Abbotsford RFC

Kingston Smith – Burnaby Lake RFC

Landis Fulton – Salish Sea Warriors

Mason Balzer – Abbotsford RFC

Mattias Suleman – UBCOB Ravens

Michael Miller – UBCOB Ravens

Oliver du Toit – Capilano RFC

Quinlan Bjorndal – Abbotsford RFC

Ryley Storey – Abbotsford RFC

Santiago La Salvia – Castaway Wanderers

Spencer Black – Capilano RFC

Theo Schaddelee – Castaway Wanderers

Theo Young – Collingwood School

Tryton Haddad – Capilano RFC

Tuma Houston – Salish Sea Warriors

COACHES: Jamie McKenzie (TORA), Noah Pryce-Baff (Kats RFC), Patryk Zuk (Capilano RFC)

MANAGER: Ken McGovern

BC BEARS U17 GIRLS SQUAD

Alyvia Draney – Abbotsford RFC

Brooklyn Cybuliak – Abbotsford RFC

Chantelle Lambert – CV Rapids Rugby

Charlotte Agnew – CV Rapids Rugby

Chloe Baxendale – James Bay AA

Chloe Whittaker – James Bay AA

Claire Warsaba – Capilano RFC

Eliza Handysides – Salish Sea Warriors

Eli Guhl – CV Rapids Rugby

Elliott Martin – Westshore RFC

Emma Narraway – Salish Sea Warriors

Evelyn Anne Wilke – Salish Sea Warriors

Florence Elcock – United Rugby

Grace Martin – James Bay AA

Jayde Howard – CV Rapids Rugby

Laesa Tinworth – Abbotsford RFC

Lily Baxendale – Cowichan RFC

Louie McKenzie – CV Rapids Rugby

Penelope McKee – Langley RFC

Poet McRae-King – CV Rapids Rugby

Stella Ference – Salish Sea Warriors

Sydney Henderson – Abbotsford RFC

Sylvanah Belsham – Abbotsford RFC

Wendy Huynh – Abbotsford RFC

COACHES: Dean Murten (UBC Thunderbirds), Maria Gallo (UBC Thunderbirds), Julia Sugawara (TWU Spartans)

MANAGER: Kelly Hanvey

bc-rugby

Remembering Stefan Vracarevic

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festival weekend full of vibes

Kamloops 7s Shields Renamed to Honour BC Rugby Icons

new look for u18 elite champions shields

Kamloops 7s: All You Need To Know!

Canada’s largest youth Rugby 7s tournament returns September 19-20

2026 BC Rugby Age-Grade Fall Season Key Dates

all roads lead to age-grade club finals ﻿

CEO Statement - September 4, 2026

BC Rugby Names John Tait as Chief Executive Officer

Register for 2026/27 Level 1 Officiating Courses

get involved as a rugby official.

2026/27 BC Rugby Senior Club Season Key Dates

all roads lead to senior club finals!

2026/27 key dates

Terrace, Rogues Crowned Saratoga Cup Champions

EPIC WEEKEND IN FERNIE, BC

2026 saratoga cup results

2026 Saratoga Cup: All You Need to Know!

Big weekend coming up in Fernie.

event details

schedule & livestream

introducing the match officials! ﻿

Remembering Joan Porter

2026 BC Summer Games Recap

Fraser River Rules in Kelowna.

BC Bears U19 & U17 XVs Return From Ontario

BC Bears U17 & U19 XVs return home after tour.

BC BEARS U19 XVs at the 2026 CRCs

BC BEARS U17 XVs: 2026 O'NEILLS CHALLENGE CUP

all roads lead to age-grade club finals

introducing the match officials!