Amid cold and muddy conditions, the Comox Valley Kickers women’s and men’s teams delivered two gritty, high-intensity performances in a doubleheader at Cumberland Village Park this past Saturday. Both matches were physical, back-and-forth contests that showcased both heart and the club’s growing depth.
Women Grind Out a 12–5 Victory Over James Bay
The Kickers women opened the day with a bruising showdown against James Bay Athletic Association (JBAA), battling through slippery footing and heavy contact in what became a defensive showcase for both sides. The momentum swung repeatedly as each team worked tirelessly to break the gain line.
The two tries scored were well-earned and demonstrated the team’s versatility. Inside JBAA’s 22-metre line, the forwards executed a beautiful maul and marched JBAA back, which resulted in Sarah Banks powering over the tryline. Later in the match, Cali McKay finished a sweeping team effort that moved the ball cleanly through the hands and out to the edge. Once she found space, she used her pace to beat the defender and score. She also converted her own try, giving the Kickers the edge.
In the dying minutes, JBAA poured on the pressure, throwing everything they had into one last push. But the Kickers dug deep, holding their defensive line. Tackle after tackle, they shut down every attempt, denying JBAA any chance at a late comeback and sealing a hard-earned victory.
Coach Andrew Stigant praised the squad after the game, “The determination, teamwork, and refusal to give up at any moment made the difference today. Even in the mud and the chaos, the players demonstrated that they are diamonds in the rough.”
Men Fall 17–12 in a Heartbreaker Against Westshore
The men’s matchup brought equal drama, intensity, and physicality as they took on Westshore in Game 1 of the two-leg Konny’s Axes Memorial Shield — an annual series played in honour of Konrad Nikkel, who represented both clubs during his rugby career.
The game was a true tug-of-war, with both sides exchanging territory and possession in challenging conditions.
Tries were scored by Joe Wright and Derek McCubbin, while Kyle Hall added a conversion. The Kickers’ defense featured several critical moments, including ankle-tapping try savers that denied Westshore in the final meters and lineout steals that disrupted key attacking opportunities. Their forwards battled relentlessly at the breakdown, and the backs made clever use of space when possession was secured. But despite a late surge and several close scoring chances, the Kickers couldn’t capitalize.
Coach Tim Quek reflected on the effort, noting, “We left everything out there. It was physical, it was passionate, and it meant a lot to this club. We didn’t get the result today, but we’ll regroup, tighten things up, and come back stronger for the second match against Westshore.”
The Comox Valley Kickers practice Tuesdays and Thursdays from 6:30–8:00 p.m. at Cumberland Village Park. New players are always welcome — no experience required.
For more information about the club or to get involved, visit comoxvalleyrugby.ca, follow the Comox Valley Kickers Rugby Club on Facebook, or check out @cvkickersrugby on Instagram.