Going Forward - Rugby Canada's Plans For Elite Players

It is with interest that I read a recent article posted on Rugby Canada’s website, written by Meghan Mutrie, whether or not an “official voice” of R.C., I know not.  The complete article can be read here and I’ll let the reader form their own opinions and questions.

Basically, she proposes the thesis that a panacea will occur when as many players as possible play offshore and that “Rugby Canada has identified a long-term strategic plan of signing their XV’s athletes with professional clubs overseas for a number of reasons.”

If Rugby Canada is to serve the role of a “careful parent”, it could do well to take a hard look at the health of its domestic competitions.  The development of any athlete who may be anywhere near capable of playing in such competitions – from French and English Tier II and III to the top level must come from the clubs, raised by their coaches.  We often hear of our boys riding the pines, languishing week after week with no or very little playing time with French and English Tier II & III teams.

There is much in the article to perturb the reader, particularly if they are a “grass roots” fan and indeed, “Rugby Canada wants to establish itself as a favorite hunting ground” well and good, if it also wants clubs to develop players to that level that it gives them commensurate support and assistance.  Perhaps the article is just Ms Mutrie’s pov but if it is truly the Party Line, we can expect further erosion of what, up until now, has been a pretty good structure.

The Ruggernut