by Natalie Ramsay | Sep 24, 2023 | Club Events
The local rugby community is reaping the benefits of a generous gesture from one of its own, as respected physiotherapist Shadi Fleifel MPT, FDN/IMS volunteered his time to host an athletic taping clinic for the Comox Valley Kickers RFC this past Sunday. Rugby is a physically demanding sport and injuries can be part of the game. This clinic was extremely useful as it provided players with the opportunity to acquire practical knowhow and practice various taping techniques firsthand. Shadi graduated with a bachelor’s degree in Kinesiology at Western University in London Ontario, before going to Perth, Australia to complete his Master’s degree in Physiotherapy in 2008. The clinic was held at Ascent Physiotherapy, located in the downtown Comox core at 141A Nordin Street, where Shadi has been based out of since 2018. The clinic consisted of Shadi demonstrating a range of taping methods, emphasizing the importance in preventing common rugby injuries, such as sprains, strains, and ligament damage. Players were given hands-on training, learning the art of taping ankles, knees, shoulders, and wrists. The clinic also covered topics like taping for support, stability, and post-injury recovery. Comox Valley Kickers President, Aaron L’Arrivee, was effusive in his praise for Shadi’s efforts. “We’re incredibly fortunate to have someone of Shadi’s caliber in our community. His expertise is invaluable, and this clinic will undoubtedly help our players perform at their best while minimizing the risks of injuries.” Comox Valley Kickers Women’s Co-Captain, Natalie Nguyen, summarized the sentiments of many by saying, “Shadi has not only showcased his remarkable skills but has also exemplified the spirit of community and sportsmanship. His generosity will...
by Natalie Ramsay | Sep 18, 2023 | Game Reports
The Comox Valley Kickers Women’s team traveled to MacDonald Park for the first rugby action of the season. James Bay Athletic Association (JBAA) played host to the opening pre-season rugby tournament over the weekend. The tournament featured five rugby clubs from across Vancouver Island taking part: JBAA, Westshore, Castaway Wanderers, Nanaimo, and Comox. The tournament featured a round-robin format, guaranteeing each team multiple matches and ample opportunities to dust off some rust, work on some chemistry, and showcase their skills. The games were highly competitive, with players displaying outstanding athleticism, teamwork, and sportsmanship throughout the weekend. The tournament provided players with valuable pre-season experience and gave the local community a reason to come together and celebrate the spirit of sports. Spectators young and old came out to support a great day of rugby. Speaking after the tournament, Co-Captain of the Comox Valley Kickers Women’s team, Natalie Nguyen said, “This year’s pre-season tournament exceeded our expectations. The level of competition was outstanding. We are excited to build on this success as we head into the upcoming season.” With the pre-season tournament at MacDonald Park serving as a thrilling prologue, rugby players and fans are both now eagerly anticipating the official start of the season. The regular season starts on October 14. The Comox Valley Kickers Men’s and Women’s teams are continually recruiting players. No experience is needed. Everyone welcomed. Practices are held on Tuesdays and Thursdays at Cumberland Village Park. For more information about the Kickers, please visit:...
by Natalie Ramsay | Aug 28, 2023 | Club Events
The Comox Valley Kickers hosted their first-ever Co-Ed Touch Rugby Tournament this past Saturday, delighting players and spectators alike. Lewis Park provided the perfect backdrop for a day of fierce, fun, and friendly competition, setting the stage for what is sure to become an annual tradition. Excitement was in the air as players descended onto the field for a day of thrilling rugby action. Registrants included individuals from all across Vancouver Island - Comox Valley, Campbell River, Hornby Island, Nanaimo, Port Alberni, Ladysmith, Cowichan, and Victoria were all represented. Tournament Organizer, Natalie Nguyen was very pleased stating, “This tournament was the perfect blend of competitive and fun, and a great way to end the Summer Touch Rugby season. It was lovely to see people from across Vancouver Island travel to participate in this. It really means a lot. This tournament embodies the fact that rugby is more than just a sport; it’s a community.” The tournament format, designed to encourage participation, communication, and teamwork, saw individuals be placed onto four teams where different skill levels, from novices to seasoned veterans, came together for a display of rugby’s inclusivity and fun-loving spirit. Each team was designated a colour and competed in a series of 20-minute touch rugby matches, playing a total of 5 games. Touch rugby, a variant of the traditional game, places a strong emphasis on agility, speed, and teamwork while removing the more physical aspects, making it accessible to all ages and fitness levels. The event’s success was also a testament to the commitment and hard work of the Kickers’ community. Current players, alumni and supporters rallied around...
by Natalie Ramsay | Aug 21, 2023 | Women's News
The Comox Valley Kickers Women’s Team is thrilled to usher in a new era for our rugby squad. We are excited to introduce our new Head Coach, JB Nikkel, who brings a wealth of experience, dedication, and passion to our team. Meet JB Nikkel JB Nikkel’s rugby journey is nothing short of inspiring. With over 20 years of experience in the sport, he has worn many hats - player, coach, and mentor. His deep-rooted love for rugby began at a young age and has evolved into a lifelong dedication to the game. JB’s roots are firmly planted in this community. He played for the 2023 BCRU Division 3 Provincial Champions, the Comox Valley Kickers Men’s Team, as well as represented Ashburton Celtic RFC, Mid-Canterbury, South Canterbury Māori, and Westshore RFC. He was also recently chosen to join the Canadian Classics for their latest Boston tour. Looking to take a step back as a player, JB’s excited to share his extensive knowledge and expertise with a team eager to learn. JB’s coaching career is a testament to his commitment to the sport. He has served as both a youth and high school rugby coach, helping mold aspiring athletes into skilled players. His coaching philosophy centers around the principles of teamwork, discipline, and continuous improvement, values that align perfectly with the Comox Valley Kickers Women’s Team. The New Vision JB Nikkel’s appointment as Head Coach marks a significant milestone for the Comox Valley Kickers Women’s Team. Under his leadership, we are eager to pursue new heights in women’s rugby, with a strong emphasis on player development and team cohesion. One of...
by Natalie Ramsay | Aug 17, 2023 | Club Events
As the days grow longer and the temperatures begin to cool, the anticipation of the new rugby season builds. After a hiatus that allowed for rest, recovery, and fun, rugby practices are set to kick off once again, signaling the start of another exciting journey on the field. Pre-season training will be held on Tuesdays and Thursdays at Woodcote Park from 6:30PM - 8:00PM for the month of August. The location changes to Cumberland Village Park in September. For ruggers, the return of practices marks a fresh start—a chance to reunite with teammates, dust off the cleats, and rediscover the exhilaration of the sport. It also provides the opportunity for those new to rugby to join and learn the game. The practice field becomes an open door for individuals of all backgrounds and skill levels to embrace the thrill of rugby. For the 2023/2024 season, BC Rugby has introduced Regional play for all teams this year. This play will see some division crossover that is designed to help Clubs build their programs. These games will not impact standings for the regular season. We await the finalized club schedule from BC Rugby but can announce the following Key Dates: Sept 30 – National Truth & Reconciliation Day – No Games Scheduled Oct 7 – Thanksgiving Weekend – No Games Scheduled Oct 14 – 2023/24 Season Begins Nov 11 – Remembrance Day – No Games Scheduled Nov 25 – Final Scheduled Weekend of Fall 2023 Play Dec 2 & 9 – Makeup Weekend for Teams if Required Jan 27 – First Scheduled Weekend of Spring 2024 Play Feb 17 – Family Day...
