by Natalie Ramsay | Oct 6, 2024 | Game Reports
The Comox Valley Kickers women’s rugby team made a powerful statement in their season opener at home, delivering a dominant 88-0 victory over Castaway Wanderers (CW), who travelled up island from Oak Bay. The Kickers showcased impressive teamwork, with quick hands and blistering speed contributing to their overwhelming performance. Leading the charge was Cali McKay, who powered through the defense for an impressive four tries. Sophia Julien added three of her own, while Amelia Gallow, Sienna Stigant, and Natalie Nguyen each contributed two tries. Daris Forberg rounded off the scoring with a try of her own, showcasing the depth and versatility across the team. McKay was in top form, converting nine of the tries. The women displayed exceptional skill, with quick hands and explosive speed propelling them across the pitch. It was a complete team performance that sets a strong tone for the rest of the season. With this victory, the team also retains the Gudmundseth Shield which is only defended on home field against other Vancouver Island teams. Captain Dara DeMarce said, “We came out strong and utilized the game plan we’ve been practicing. It’s a great way to start the season, and I couldn’t be prouder of the team’s effort. We’re excited to keep this momentum going.” Meanwhile, the Comox Valley Kickers men’s team faced a challenging rematch on the road against James Bay Athletic Association (JBAA). This time, the Kickers showed significant improvement, despite falling short with a score of 22-55. Tries came from Brandon Hudson, Andy Hextall, Jesse Ramsay, and Nick Gilmour with Kyle Hall adding one conversion. Though the final scoreline was not in...
by Natalie Ramsay | Sep 29, 2024 | Game Reports, Uncategorized
In their first game at Cumberland Village Park this season, the Comox Valley Kickers men’s rugby team faced a tough opponent in the Cowichan Piggies, ending with a 5-50 loss. While the scoreline may suggest a lopsided contest, the match was very competitive, with both teams delivering intense performances on the pitch. From the first whistle, the game was marked by hard tackles and disciplined set pieces from the Kickers. However, the home team spent a significant portion of the match on defense, holding off Cowichan’s relentless phases of attack. Time and time again, after several phases of pressure, the Piggies managed to break through and put points on the board. The Kickers’ only try came from a powerful run by Outside Centre Devon Moore, who showcased his strength and determination. Bursting through Cowichan’s defensive line, Devon fought off multiple tacklers on his way to the try line. His hard, direct running gave the home crowd something to cheer about, as he powered through the Piggies’ defense to secure the Kickers’ lone score of the match. The Kickers showed heart and grit, matching their opponents physically and making their presence felt. Unfortunately, handling errors at key moments provided Cowichan with opportunities to capitalize, ultimately widening the gap on the scoreboard. Head coach Tim Quek reflected on the game, acknowledging the score didn’t reflect the true nature of the battle. “We were right there with them for much of the match,” he said. “It came down to small mistakes and moments that we’ll learn from. This team has a lot of potential, and I know we’ll bounce back.” As the...
by Natalie Ramsay | Sep 13, 2024 | Game Reports
With rugby pre-season underway, BC Rugby has officially released the much-anticipated game schedule for the upcoming 2024/2025 season. The Comox Valley Kickers are coming off a historic season that saw both their men’s and women’s teams win the provincial championships in their respective divisions. With the men winning back to back Division 3 titles, this has propelled them to Division 1, marking a significant milestone in the club’s history. Moving to Division 1 will set the stage for even greater challenges and opportunities in the upcoming season. The women will continue to compete in Division 2, with the goal of growing the game in the Comox...
by Natalie Ramsay | May 6, 2024 | Game Reports
The Comox Valley Kickers RFC experienced a historic weekend, clinching not just one but two championships in two closely contested and hard-fought matches. The women’s team secured the first of a memorable Cup double with a victory over United RFC, 19-12 while the men’s team successfully defended their championship title against Chilliwack Crusaders RFC with a score of 24-21. Ged Griffiths Cup comes to the Comox Valley for the first time The BCRU Senior Club Finals started with a clash between the top two ranked teams in Women’s Division 2. Spectators, both in person and those viewing via live stream, were treated to an electric game of rugby, with moments of brilliance from both sides lighting up the field. From the first whistle, the Comox Valley Kickers and United RFC engaged in fierce battles for possession and territory. As the game unfolded, it became evident that neither side was willing to cede ground easily, resulting in most of the game being played predominantly between each team’s 22-metre lines for much of the first half. Inside Centre, Danelle Campbell scored the first try for the Kickers by chasing down a short penalty kick attempt which Fullback Cali McKay then converted. United quickly answered back with a converted try of their own. United managed to edge ahead by halftime scoring another try, only for the Kickers to stage a spirited comeback in the second half. Winger Sienna Stigant tied the game up with a burst down the sideline. With the match finely poised at 12-12 heading into the final minutes, the Kickers delivered the decisive blow that would shatter United’s dreams...
by Natalie Ramsay | Apr 28, 2024 | Game Reports
In a stunning display of skill, determination, and teamwork, the Comox Valley Kickers women’s and men’s rugby teams have secured their place in the BCRU Senior Club Finals after winning their respective semi-final matchups. This marks a historic moment for the club, as it is the first time in club history that both teams have advanced to the finals in the same season. Commanding Performance on Home Field by the Women In a thrilling showdown at Cumberland Village Park, the Comox Valley Kickers women’s rugby team showcased their dominance with a resounding 27-7 victory over the Nanaimo Hornets. The Kickers overcame an early deficit to secure a memorable win and advance to the finals. The game kicked off with a burst of speed from the Nanaimo Hornets, as their winger executed a lightning-fast break along the sideline to score the opening try, catching the Kickers off guard. However, minutes later the home team rallied, led by their Captain Natalie Nguyen, who responded with a game-changing interception try, leveling the score and killing Nanaimo’s momentum. From that pivotal moment onwards, the Kickers seized command of the game, showcasing their skills in both attack and defense. Nguyen added another try to the scoreboard by capitalizing on a brilliant sequence of offloads and quick hands from her teammates. Not to be outdone, Winger Jess Nikkel made her mark on the match with a stunning interception at the halfway line, showcasing her speed and agility as she raced past defenders to score, adding to the Kickers’ lead. The team’s forwards were a formidable force in the scrums and lineouts, providing crucial possession and...
by Natalie Ramsay | Apr 21, 2024 | Game Reports
In a gripping rematch of last year’s finals, the Comox Valley Kickers clinched a hard-fought victory over Richmond RFC with a final score of 34-29 in the 2023/2024 BCRU Division 3 Men’s Quarterfinals. The rivalry between the Kickers and Richmond RFC has been steadily brewing, and Saturday’s encounter only served to fuel the competitive spirit between the two sides. Having experienced a regular-season loss against Richmond, the Kickers used that setback as motivation to elevate their game and came into the match better prepared. The game itself proved to be a nail-biter, with momentum swinging back and forth as each team fought tooth and nail for possession on the field. Adverse weather conditions including strong winds added a layer of challenge to the match, testing the players’ skills and adaptability. However, amidst the fierce competition, a heartwarming display of sportsmanship unfolded. Richmond RFC, in an unfortunate oversight, forgot to travel with their game jerseys. The Kickers exemplified true sportsmanship by lending their opponents jerseys to wear, albeit inside out. This gesture not only showcased the camaraderie and mutual respect between the two teams but also underscored the values of sportsmanship and fair play that are at the core of rugby. The game day experience was elevated with the addition of a beer garden, food sales, and merchandise sales which would not have been possible without volunteers. Despite the challenging conditions and the evenly matched contest, the Comox Valley Kickers emerged triumphant, clinching a well-deserved victory over their rivals. Tries were scored by Derek McCubbin, Brandon Hudson, Nick Gilmour, Will Perry, Joe Barker, and Kyle Hall with Kai Mills adding...
