Wednesday's, "Ruck & Maul".

CW congratulates the following players selected for the upcoming Commonwealth Games in Glasgow; Moonlight (c.), Braid, White, Jones, Trainor, Hammond, Douglas, Hirayama, Duke, Hearn, Scholtz and Fuailefau. This is arguably, the best group available, given injuries to Mack and Dala. This pundit asks; “Where’s Waldo O’Toole?” I have always liked Chauncey or for that matter, Kleeberger, as a tough one on one player in the Moonlight mould who can be a real difference maker in the Sevens game. Perhaps when strength is weighed against speed, the latter probably wins.

The draw is not easy as the boys open with the Kiwis, followed by Barbados and Scotland in the final pool game. Despite Glasgow being a lucky venue for Canada, the Scots, a much improved squad on the circuit, must still be seething about their loss to Canada in the Glasgow Sevens in November. Canada went on to make the Championship Final at that event. To hurdle Scotland and a much larger supportive crowd in this Pool game would be a massive accomplishment.

Players such as Braid, Scholtz and Douglas are now considered “senior members” and will have to be at their best. Fuli, White and Hammond, from the bench will have to be error free and Nate will need to be fully flying to help cover the Mack factor. It is perhaps a blessing to have two games before the Scots.

It will be interesting to see Crowley handling the squad and also to see John’s progress with the Aussies. Speaking of coaches, the U.S.A. has just announced a new specialist 7’s coach, Mike Findlay who has coached both England and Kenya. Obviously, big bucks have been shelled out to prepare for the Rio Olympics. The Commonwealth’s will be a good benchmark for Canada. Keep visiting this site for further news and opinions! Opening kick off for Canada – July 23, 2:30 a.m. (PST).

Coming To Town. A warm CW welcome to Bianca and Seamus Gay and their boys, visiting the Garden City. “Shay” at #7 has probably been the most consistent and passionate player to wear The Tricolor over the past decade. His grey helmet popped up everywhere, inspiring those around him to play better. He plied his trade with us for at least six seasons, not hesitating to fill in wherever needed, #2 and #9 being a couple of slots. The Gay family pondered long and hard about remaining in Canada but finally an offer he could not refuse opened for him to return to Weipa, in his native Queensland. His boys have Canadian birthright, so one day we might see a Gay wearing the Maple Leaf. Who knows? (And it would not be a surprise!!) ‘onya, Shay, hope youse have a great visit with friends.

Better Late Than Never! Rugby Canada is hosting its fourth Annual Golf Fundraiser Tournament TOMORROW at OLYMPIC VIEW. There are still slots open. Single green fee = $175, foresome = $700. Registration from 11:30 a.m. and tee off, Scramble format, 1:30 p.m. For details; http://events.rugbycanada.ca/victoria-golf-tournament.html