by Natalie Ramsay | Nov 2, 2023 | Club Events, Community Involvement
Some members of the Comox Valley Kickers RFC supporting the club’s first blood drive. The Comox Valley Kickers RFC has taken a significant step in supporting the most vulnerable members of the community by enrolling in the Canadian Blood Services’ Partners for Life program. On Wednesday, November 1, thirteen members, representing about a quarter of the club’s total, gathered at the Florence Filberg Centre to participate in a blood donation drive, a heartfelt effort to raise awareness and assist those in need. Derek McCubbin, a longstanding member of the Comox Valley Kickers RFC, championed this initiative. “As the community supports our rugby club, we wanted to find ways we can give back to the community,” says McCubbin. “Organizing a blood drive amongst our members made sense. The need for blood is constant and can be lifesaving.” The blood drive served as a testament to the team’s collective dedication to making a tangible impact outside the rugby field. With some members reaching significant milestones, having donated for the 30th or 40th time, the event also welcomed four first-time donors within the group, setting an inspiring example for others to follow suit. Natalie Nguyen, Co-Captain of the Comox Valley Kickers Women’s team, expressed, “Being part of a team is not just about what happens on the field; it’s about the values we uphold as part of the community. We are happy to support Canadian Blood Services and play our part in helping those in need.” This event not only served to bolster the local blood bank but also shed light on the pressing need for regular blood donations, especially in...
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 | 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 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...
by Natalie Ramsay | Aug 4, 2023 | Club Events
The excitement is building as the Comox Valley Kickers RFC prepares to host their first Co-Ed Rugby Touch Tournament. Scheduled for Saturday, August 26th, the event promises to bring together rugby enthusiasts from all over for a day of fun-filled, non-contact rugby action. The cost of registration is $20 per person. Teams will be assigned by August 23 and posted on the Kickers Facebook Event Page. This format allows both experienced athletes and newcomers to showcase their skills in competitive matches. This tournament will reinforce the spirit of teamwork, sportsmanship, and provide opportunities to meet and connect with others. Families, friends, and locals are expected to enjoy the festive community atmosphere at Lewis Park. The tournament will also feature a beer garden and prizes, adding to the overall festive ambiance and encouraging more people to get involved with the sport. Natalie Nguyen, Co-Captain of the Comox Valley Kickers Women’s Team and Tournament Organizer, expressed her enthusiasm ahead of the tournament. “We are thrilled to be hosting our Inaugural Co-Ed Rugby Touch Tournament. Our aim is to bring the community together to enjoy a day of rugby. It seems like the perfect way to cap off the summer before our regular season begins. We are excited to showcase the vibrant rugby community we have here in the Comox Valley in an accessible format. We hope that this can be an annual occurrence.” For more information about the tournament, please visit the Facebook Event Page “Comox Valley Kickers Co-Ed Touch Rugby Tournament.” For more information about the Comox Valley Kickers RFC, please visit their website at...
by Natalie Ramsay | Jul 30, 2023 | Club Events
As the days grow shorter and the summer heat gradually gives way to the cool breeze of autumn, ruggers in the Comox Valley are gearing up for an exciting new season. Registration is now open for senior players, both men and women, of all skill levels. Whether you’re a seasoned veteran or a curious newcomer, the Comox Valley Kickers RFC welcomes you to be a part of the camaraderie, passion, and sheer excitement that rugby brings. Register Here Rugby is not just a sport; it’s a way of life that fosters a strong sense of community, teamwork, and respect. The Comox Valley Kickers Rugby Club embodies this spirit, creating an inclusive environment where players can learn, grow, and build lasting friendships. The Comox Valley Kickers Men’s Team will be defending their provincial title once again in the BCRU Division 3 Men’s League and the Kickers Women’s Team will be playing in the BCRU Division 2 Women’s League. To register, simply visit Sportlomo. and follow the steps. If you have any questions or run into any issues, please contact cvkickers@gmail.com. We look forward to having you join us on the...
