'tis the Season

December 14, 2023 Posted in CW Rugby / Giving Back / Rugby Club / Victoria BC / News / Community / Girls U16-U18

Guido’s Annual Christmas Luncheon was on the docket last weekend, capably served and prepared, once again by Guido, Ed Knaggs and Jonesy. This is a very generous gesture from Guido as he covers the costs and gives the club the proceeds. It is a rare and unusual time when traditionally, male members of the club have a bonding and sharing opportunity. Often players from other clubs join together as a group of rugby players to break bread. Heard tell that this year, one of the highlights was a number of father-son attendees, also a number of players past. One of the unique occurrences during the luncheon is each attendee having to offer to the group something that they had been grateful for during the past year. It was mentioned by three or four that they had been grateful to have met Kevin Wirachowski. He had a positive effect on them, and they learned much from him. Special, Lunk. Gone but not forgotten.

Seasonal Training. Some players tried to deal with Ken that they would attend the luncheon in lieu of training! No deal, but they were there anyway.

Fill a seat. The club was kitted out in Christmas magic. The seats were filled.

'onya, Guido!

BCRU U18 GIRLS

CW had two players in action in Australia last week, both no doubt with their hearts with their BCRU Championship teammates in action back home in the BC Final. Piper King and Gwen Jorgenson represented their club well as BC girls. As the #6 seed they went 2 – 1 to make it to the semi-final. They lost to tournament winners, Australian Schoolgirls. An almighty effort, one to make us all proud of their play and a fantastic experience to bring back to their club teammates. ‘Onyas, Gwen and Piper!

HYDE-LAY RECOGNITION

Director of Rugby, Ken Goodland & Coach Hydes

Ian-Hyde Lay Gala Dinner

Ian Hyde-Lay is a very well known Victoria sports coach and personality. He should be after almost 40 years coaching his two passion sports - Rugby & Basketball. Many will know that his primary job was with St. Michaels University School for 39 years. Ian retired earlier this year. What many do not know is that, during his teaching decades at SMUS, Ian also reached out into the community to bring his deep coaching capability to other organizations. As a player, Ian was at the top of both basketball during the Ken Shields era where UVic won more than its share of national championships and in rugby where Ian played for his country. Beyond his playing prowess, Ian coached Castaway Wanderers Rugby from 2010 - 2016; the Crimson Tide 2004 - 2006; Canada West 2006 - 2008; Canada U-20 2007 & 2008; Ian refereed 17 test matches; Officiated at the 1999 World Cup as well as with the 1997 & 2001 International Sevens. Suffice it to say, this is a very fine rugby man whose achievements are to be lauded & celebrated.

On another side note, Ian also took his love for basketball to UVic Vikes where he coached for a total of 12 years between 1982 - 2019.

On February 10, 2024 at the Bard & Banker Pub, Ian will be applauded, roasted and thanked for his amazing gift to decades of aspiring athletes. We hope you will join us.

Please mark your calendars and attend this wonderful event.

When: Tuesday, April 4th, 2023, at 6:00pm to 9:00pm
Where: Bard and Banker, 1022 Government Street, Victoria, BC
How: Purchase Tickets Online HERE

KIDS’ KICKING KLINIC

SUNDAY