by CVKickers | Mar 27, 2024 | Game Reports
In a tense battle against the Nanaimo Hornets, the Comox Valley Kickers Women’s rugby team emerged victorious with a narrow 20-15 win, securing the prestigious Gudmundseth Shield. Despite the challenging weather conditions of rain and mud, the Kickers displayed resilience, with Ava Perkins, Cali McKay, and Hazel Bice scoring critical tries, including a dramatic winning try on the last play of the game. This is the first time the Kickers Women have held the Gudmundseth Shield. They will retain it until another Vancouver Island Rugby Union team defeats the Kickers on their home turf. The Hornets had previously held The Shield since November 2022. Coach JB Nikkel lauded the team’s defensive prowess, stating, “Defense was definitely our game. Despite the soggy conditions, our players remained disciplined and focused, ensuring our defensive line held strong.” He also acknowledged the efforts of the backline, though hampered by the weather, in making significant runs. Looking forward, Nikkel emphasized the importance of maintaining momentum, stating, “With this victory, we turn our focus to the next challenges ahead.” The Kickers Women’s team has secured home field advantage for the first round of playoffs, scheduled for April 20th at Cumberland Village Park. Men’s Team Extends Winning Streak to Six Games In a hard-fought contest against Burnaby Lake Rugby Club, the Comox Valley Kickers Men’s rugby team emerged triumphant with a 34-17 win in damp conditions. Despite trailing 17-15 at halftime, the Kickers rallied and pulled ahead in the second half. Tries were scored by Jimmy Brazier, Ben Bekk, Devon Moore, Craig Rice, and Riley Gaudet. Kai Mills added 6 points...
by Natalie Ramsay | Mar 17, 2024 | Game Reports
In a display of sheer dominance, the Comox Valley Kickers Women’s rugby team delivered an impressive performance as they traveled to the mainland to clash against RichLions, a combined side from Richmond RFC and Delta’s Brit Lions. The opposing side had a shortage of players which means that the game format had to change from 15-a-side with two forty-minute halves to 12-a-side with three 20-minute periods. The change to the game format did not phase the Kickers as from the opening whistle, it was abundantly clear that the women were focused and determined. Their start was nothing short of overwhelming, as they swiftly seized control of the match and left no doubt as to the outcome, securing a remarkable victory with a final score of 83-7. The match showcased an impressive display of skill and teamwork, particularly in the art of offloading, which proved to be instrumental in creating scoring opportunities. Captain Natalie Nguyen had the game’s opening try from a beautiful series of offloads. This try served as a catalyst, igniting a spark that opened up the floodgates for a deluge of scoring opportunities. Tries were then scored by Outside Centre Jess Nikkel and Winger Sienna Stigant. The period ended with a great half-field run from 8-man, Audrey Jones. Cali McKay successfully added 3 converts. The Kickers held a commanding 26-0 lead, leaving Richmond struggling to find their footing. Early in the second period, RichLions scored their lone try. In response to the opposing side putting points on the board, the Kickers surged forward with renewed intensity. Their relentless attack and formidable defense propelled them even further ahead,...
by Natalie Ramsay | Mar 10, 2024 | Game Reports
In an unexpected turn of events, the Comox Valley Kickers men’s rugby team found themselves traveling south to Nanaimo for what was supposed to be a home game due to snowy conditions that still blanketed their home turf. Despite the logistical challenges posed by Mother Nature, the Kickers showcased their resilience and dominance on the field, clinching a resounding 40-17 victory against the Ridge Meadows Bruins Rugby Club. Originally slated to play in Cumberland, the Kickers were forced to adapt as the field at Cumberland Village Park still had snow lingering on it, rendering the field unplayable. A heartfelt thank you is extended to the Nanaimo Hornets RFC for generously lending their field and hosting so that this game could happen. From the opening whistle, it was evident that the Kickers were keen to make a statement. Their relentless offensive pressure and solid defensive strategy kept Ridge Meadows on the back foot throughout the match. Displaying superb teamwork and individual skill, the Kickers swiftly gained the upper hand, putting points on the board with clinical precision. Standout performances were abundant among the Comox Valley squad. The team’s cohesive effort was particularly evident in their seamless execution of set plays and ability to capitalize on turnovers. Devon Moore led the charge by scoring two tries, one of which was from an interception. Nick Gilmour, Brandon Hudson, Stephen Hextall and Derek McCubbin added one try a piece. Kyle Hall demonstrated remarkable accuracy, converting five out of 6 attempts. Despite the valiant efforts of the Ridge Meadows team to mount a comeback, the Kickers maintained their composure and continued to dictate the...
by Natalie Ramsay | Mar 3, 2024 | Game Reports
Both Comox Valley Kickers RFC teams achieved impressive victories while on the road this past weekend, solidifying their positions as formidable contenders in their respective leagues. Both teams currently sit third in the standings, with records of 5-2-0 for the women and 5-2-1 for the men. Women’s Rugby Team Crushes Competition in Victoria The Comox Valley Kickers Women’s Rugby Team showcased exceptional skill and teamwork as they journeyed to Oak Bay, a suburb of Victoria, earning a resounding victory at Windsor Park that left their opponents stunned. At first glance, the Castaway Wanderers (“CW”) looked formidable, boasting a significant advantage in numbers. However, as the game unfolded, it became abundantly clear that sheer numerical superiority was no match for the cohesive unity and strategic prowess of the Kickers. Despite facing what appeared to be overwhelming odds, the Kickers remained undaunted, executing their game plan with precision and determination resulting in a 65-5 victory. Right from the start, it was evident that the Kickers meant business. With a relentless offensive onslaught and a rock-solid defense, they held their opponents scoreless in the first half. The Kickers’ forwards and backs worked in perfect harmony, overwhelming CW’s defense. As the second half got underway, the Kickers showed no signs of slowing down. While their opponents managed to score a solitary try, it was a mere blip in an otherwise flawless performance from the visiting team. The Kickers continued to pile on the pressure, leaving CW’s defense scrambling to keep up. The scoreboard told the story of the Kickers’ dominance. Sophia Julien proved to be an unstoppable force, crossing the try line an...
by Natalie Ramsay | Feb 19, 2024 | Game Reports
In the only match held over Family Day weekend, the Comox Valley Kickers Men’s rugby team faced off against the Nanaimo Hornets. It was a physical showdown from start to finish, with bone-jarring tackles and fierce collisions that defined the intensity of the game. The match started slowly for the Kickers as they found themselves under immense pressure from the opposing side for the first 15 minutes of the game, requiring them to put up a stout defense to keep their rivals at bay. Despite the early onslaught, the players remained composed and gradually settled into their rhythm. As the game progressed, the Kickers began to assert their dominance, showcasing their offensive prowess and capitalizing on scoring opportunities. With precision passing and strategic plays, they managed to breach the defense of their opponents, putting crucial points on the board. By halftime, the Kickers had established a commanding lead of 21-0, leaving the Hornets trailing in their wake. However, any hopes of a one-sided victory were quickly dispelled as the second half got underway. The Hornets refused to back down and launched a spirited comeback attempt. The intensity on the field reached a fever pitch as both teams battled fiercely. Despite the relentless efforts of their rivals, the Kickers remained unfazed, demonstrating composure and teamwork to weather the storm and maintain their advantage. In a thrilling conclusion to the match, the Kickers emerged victorious with a final score of 38-28, securing a hard-fought victory. Tries were scored by Jesse Ramsay, Kai Mills, Trent Johnson, Nick Gilmore, Derek McCubbin, and Ryan Beauchamp with 3 successful conversions from Kyle Hall and one...
by Natalie Ramsay | Feb 12, 2024 | Game Reports
In a thrilling doubleheader at Cumberland Village Park, the local men’s and women’s rugby teams showcased their skills, passion, and determination in front of a cheering home crowd. While the women’s team fought valiantly but fell short in a narrow 15-17 loss, the men’s team dominated the pitch, securing a resounding 86-0 victory. Women’s Match: A Hard-Fought Battle The afternoon began with an intense showdown between the Comox Valley Kickers versus James Bay Athletic Association (JBAA). From the opening whistle, it was evident that both sides were determined to leave everything on the field. JBAA scored early in the game due to a quick breakaway from their winger, but the Kickers answered right back. Tries were scored by Ava Perkins, Sienna Stigant, and Cali McKay. It was a back-and-forth game with neither team willing to concede ground easily. Tackles were fierce, runs were powerful, and every point was hard-earned. As the clock ticked down, the tension in the air was palpable, with supporters holding their breath. Despite their best efforts, the Comox Valley Kickers Women narrowly missed out on victory, falling short by just two points with a final score of 15-17. Coach JB Nikkel said, “Though the result was not in our favor, it was a great game of rugby. We will continue to work on our extras and focus on our system and structure. This is just a minor setback, and we will continue to move forward.” Men’s Match: A Dominant Display Following the women’s spirited match, it was time for the local men’s rugby team to take center stage. From the game’s opening moments, it was...
