DAVID BIDDLE - BC Rugby News BIDDLE - A product of Kitsilano High School, ... 21 team at the World...

RWC 2007 Canada Squad

RUGBY CANADA WORLD CUP 2007 PENSKETCHES

DAVID BIDDLE - A product of Kitsilano High School, he played for B.C. at the U-18 and U-20 levels and for Canada U-19s at the World Championship in South Africa in 2004 as well as for the Plymouth Old Boys (NZ) in 2004, winning selection to the Taranaki U-21 team that won the Hurricane Cup. In 2005 he played for Canada’s U-21 team at the World Championships in Mendoza, Argentina. Toured with Canada ‘A’ to NZ in April and won his first ‘A’ cap in the Barclays Churchill Cup 2006 and his first international cap against Barbados in the RWC Qualifier. Played against the NZ

Maori at the 2007 Barclays Churchill Cup.

Club: Meraloma R.F.C.Position: FlankerBirth date: August 10, 1985Place of Birth: Vancouver, BCHeight: 6’ 2” (189 cms)Weight:224 lbs (102 kgs)Representative Honours International caps: 2006 Bb (1)A caps: 2006 S (A), E (A): 2007 NZM (3A)Nickname “Bird Dog”

MIKE BURAK - A product of Lord Byng High School, Vancouver, he graduated from the University of British Columbia where he played basketball for two years. On being cut from the basketball squad, he returned to rugby and helped his team win the B.C. First Division Championship in his second season and was named “Best Forward”. Played for B.C. against Canada just prior to its departure to the RWC 2003 and so impressed selectors that he was chosen to the Super Powers Cup in Japan in 2004 and went on to

win five international caps in succession. Played against England ‘A’, USA and in Canada’s win over Argentina in 2005 as well as against France and Romania in November 2005. In 2006 played against the USA and Barbados. Played professionally for Northern Suburbs in Sydney in 2006 and in 2006/7 with Pau in France.

Club Pau (France)/UBC Old Boy Ravens Position LockBirth date October 9, 1980Hometown Vancouver, BCHeight 6’7” (201 cm)Weight 235 lbs (107 kg)


Representative Honours International caps: 2004 USA, J, USA, F, It, E; 2005 USA, Arg, F, R; 2006 USA, Bb, W, NZ (14)A caps: 2004 E (A); 2005 E; 2007 Ireland ‘A’, NZM (4A)Nickname “Sack”; “Borat”

AARON CARPENTER - A product of Canada’s U-19 program, he first toured with Canada’s Senior Men’s team to the Super Powers Cup in 2004 and returned to Japan for the 2005 Super Cup to win his first international cap against the USA with an impressive display. He won his second cap replacing injured Captain Mark Lawson for most of the second-half in Canada’s 15-10 win over Japan. Scored tries against England ‘A’ and the USA in the 2005 Churchill Cup and played a significant

role in Canada’s win over Argentina in 2005. His outstanding play in his rookie season won him “Rookie of the Year” honours for Canada. Plays either back-row or hooker.

Current Club: Brantford HarlequinsPosition: Flanker/#8/ HookerBirth date: September 1, 1983Hometown Brantford, ONHeight: 6’ (183 cm)Weight:228 lbs (104 kg)Representative Honours International caps: 2005 USA, J, USA, Arg, F, R; 2006 USA, W, It; 2007 USA, NZ (14) Scoring: (5points: USA 05t) A caps: 2005 E (A); 2006 S (A), ES; 2007 Ireland ‘A’, NZM (5A)Scoring: 10 points: E(A) 2005(t); NZM 2007(t)Nickname “Carps”

JAMIE CUDMORE - This former track and field athlete, as well as downhill and slalom skier, didn’t take up rugby until he was seventeen with his local club the Squamish Axemen. Since then he has played a season in New Zealand with the East Coast Bays (2000) and for his province, B.C., against England. In April 2002 he traveled to Germany with his U-23 PacificSport Rugby Academy team and in May 2002 toured to Australia with Canada and played for Canada West against Scotland in June 2002. Earned his first

cap in Chicago against the USA in 2002 coming on as a replacement and earned his first starting cap against Chile in Santiago in Canada’s WC Qualifying win. He played against England and the USA in the 2003 Churchill Cup Tournament and in all four World Cup games. In 2004 played against the USA, France, Italy and England and against Wales in 2005. Signed his first professional contract with Llanelli, Wales in 2003, and has since played for Grenoble (‘04/’05) and is now playing for ASM Clermont-Auvergne.Current Club ASM Clermont-Auvergne (France)


Position Lock/FlankerBirth date Sept. 6, 1978Hometown Squamish, BCHeight 6’6” (198 cm)Weight 256 lbs (116 kg)Representative Honours 2002 USA, C, W, F; 2003 USA, W, NZ, It, T; 2004 USA, F, It, E; 2005 W, F; 2006 USA (16)Scoring: 5 points: t USA 2004) A caps: 2003 E (A) (1A)RWC: 2003 W, NZ, It, T (4)Nickname “Cuddles”

CRAIG CULPAN - Born in Vancouver, BC his NZ parents took him back with them to Auckland when he was seven. He played at the Auckland Grammar School winning the Auckland Schools Championship in 1999. He then played for the Grammar-Carlton club before spending a year in Scotland playing for Watsonians. On his return to NZ his Grammar-Carleton club went to the Auckland Premier League final in 2004. Toured with Canada ‘A’ to NZ in April and earned his first ‘A’ cap playing against

England ‘A’ in the 2006 Churchill Cup. Scored a brilliant try against Ireland ‘A’ and kept his place in all subsequent matches including against New Zealand against the All-Blacks.

Club Meraloma R.F.C.Position CentreBirth date May 17, 1982Hometown Auckland, N.Z.Height 6'2 ½” (190 cm)Weight 209 lbs (95 kg)Representative Honours International Caps: 2007 USA, NZ (2) A caps: 2006 E(A); 2007 Ireland ‘A’, NZM (3 A)Scoring: 5 points: 2007 Ireland ‘A’(t).Nickname “Cups”

DEREK DAYPUCK - A graduate of Clark Road Secondary School in London, Ontario where he was its Most Valuable Player, and after graduation played with the London St.Georges club while working at his trade as a floor layer. Played for the Ontario U-19 team and toured to Ireland in 1998 with the Canada U-20 team. Attended the Pacific Sport Academy in Victoria where he toured to Penticton and Germany. In 2003 played for the Super League All-Stars against the N.Z. Maori, and

won his first cap in 2004 against England A at the Churchill Cup and his second against France. Played in six of Canada’s tests in 2005 as its starting fullback. Played against Scotland A, USA and Barbados in 2006


scoring a try in the RWC Qualifier against the USA. Has played in twenty Sevens Tournaments, including the 2007 Commonwealth Games, with the Canada Sevens Team.

Club Castaway-Wanderers/ London St. George Position Outside-half/Fullback/Utility BackBirth date February 20, 1978Hometown London, ONHeight 6'0” (183 cm)Weight 205 lbs (93 kg)Representative Honours 2004 F, It, E; 2005 USA, J, W (p), A, F; 2006 USA, Bb, USA, W, It

(16)Scoring: (54 pts: T, 12p, 5c, dg) USA’053 p.3c; J’05 p, c; W ’05 p, A (5p,c), F (2p) USA’06, W’06dgA caps: 2004 E (A); 2005 E (A); 2006 S (A); 2007 Ire A, NZM (5A)Sevens World Cup 2005; Commonwealth Games 2006Nickname “Pucker”

ED FAIRHURST - A product of St. Michael’s University School in Victoria and the U-23 PacificSport Rugby Academy, he played on Canada’s Under-19 team which finished fourth at the World Youth Championships in France, in 1998. He played a season at the Brother’s Club in Brisbane and has made eight tours with the Canada National Sevens team, including the 2002 Commonwealth Games and the 2005 Sevens World Cup. Debuted in 2001 PARA match vs. USA and earned a second international cap against

Argentina at the same tournament. Toured Australia with Canada in May 2002. Scored his first try for Canada against Uruguay in Montevideo in 2003. Played against New Zealand and Tonga at the RWC 2003. Played a pivotal role in the #10 jersey in Canada’s 30-26 win over the USA at the 2005 Super Cup in Japan and has played in all of Canada’s tests in 2006. Has played scrum-half, outside-half and fullback for Canada. Played professionally with Cardiff in 2006/2007 and has signed with Cornish Pirates for the 2007-2008 season.

Club Cornish Pirates (Eng.)Position Scrum Half, Outside-half, FullbackBirth date May 7, 1979Hometown Victoria, BCHeight 6’1” (185 cm)Weight 205 lbs (93 kg)Representative Honours International caps: 2001 USA, Arg; 2002 USA, U, C, U, C, W, F; 2003 USA, NZ, T; 2004 USA, J, USA, F, It, E; 2005 USA, W, USA, F; 2006 USA, Bb, USA, W, It; 2007 USA, NZ (29)

Scoring: 31: t, 6p, 4c: 2002 U (t); 2004 USA (2p, 3c); 2005 USA (4p,c) A caps: 2003 E (A), NZM, NZM: 04 E (A): 05 E (A); 06 S (A), E (A); 07 Ireland ‘A’, NZM (9A)


Captain: NZM 07. Commonwealth Games 2002; Sevens World Cup 2005. RWC: 2003 NZ, T (2)Nickname “Ghost”

SCOTT FRANKLIN - Played for his Saskatchewan provincial team at U-17, U-18 and U-19 levels, and for Canada at the U-17, U-19 and U-23 levels. He also won awards for his prowess on the gridiron football field and on the hockey rink while at Notre Dame College 1994-1998. A graduate of the PacificSport U-23 Academy, he has played for the Regina Prairie Fire and the Victoria Crimson Tide in the RC Super League. Converted from a flanker to a tight-head prop he toured New Zealand with Canada ‘A’ in 2006 and

a strong game in the East vs West N.A. Four game in April 2006 won him a place on Canada’s 2007 Churchill Cup squad where he played in all games and against the All-Blacks on the New Zealand tour.

Club Brive (Fra) - Castaway-WanderersPosition Prop/ flankerBirth date August 23, 1980Hometown Regina, SKHeight 6’2” (188cms)Weight 250 lbs. (111 kg)Representative Honours International caps: 2007 USA, NZ (2)Canada ‘A’: 2007 Ireland ‘A’, NZM, (2A)Nickname “Big Rig”

NATHAN HIRAYAMA - Nathan is the youngest player ever to play for Canada making his first appearance at 19 years, two months and two days against the N.Z. Maori in 2007. He played for Canada’s Sevens at Dubai when he was 18 years old in December 2006. Played for Canada at the U-17 level and for Canada’s U-19s at the recent World Championships in Belfast in 2007. His father, former international outside-half Gary Hirayama, won twelve caps for Canada in the 1980s and played on Canada’s first Sevens team to Hong Kong in 1980. A member of Canada’s Barclays Churchill Cup

squad in May 2007, he also toured with Canada to New Zealand in June 2007.

Club University of VictoriaPosition Outside-halfBirth date March 22, 1988Hometown Richmond, BCHeight 6’ (201 cm)Weight 198 lbs (90kg)Representative Honours A caps: 2007 NZM Nickname “Nate”


MIKE JAMES - After playing for Canada A, Canada U 23 and Rugby Canada in 1993 he set a record winning a dozen caps in less than 12 months following his first cap for Canada in 1994. Played against Romania and Australia in the ‘95 World Cup but missed the South Africa game because of a broken thumb sustained while playing the Wallabies. Signed a professional contract with Perpignan in 1996 and in 2000

moved to Stade Francais where he continues playing. Resumed play for Canada against the US in September and played in all of Canada’s Pac Rim 1996 tests. Scored his first try for Canada against Japan in ‘97 Pac Rim and also played against Wales and Ireland. Played in both tests against the United States in the 1998 Pac Rim, all three World Cup Qualifying matches in Argentina, and against Samoa in the 1999 Epson Cup. Played against England and Wales, and in all three Rugby World Cup games against France, Fiji and Namibia in France at RWC 1999. Played for the French Barbarians against South Africa in 1997, Argentina in 1998,Fiji in 2001 and Australia A in 2005. Heineken Cup finalist with Stade Francais in 2001. Played in Canada’s 26-23 win over Scotland and scored a try its 26-9 win over the USA in Toronto. Played against the N.Z. Maori in 2003 and assumed the captaincy during the Pan American Tournament for three tests. Played against Wales and Tonga in the RWC 2003, France in 2005 and the USA in the RWC Qualifier in 2006.

Club Stade FrancaisPostiton LockBirth date July 21, 1973Hometown Burnaby, BCHeight 198 cms. (6’6”)Weight 110 kgs. (242 lbs)Representative Honours 1994USA, F, W, E, F; 1995 S, U, A, Fj, NZ, R, Aust, USA; 1996 USA, USA, HK, HK, J, J, Aust; 1997 J, USA, W, Irl; 1998 USA, USA, U, USA, A; 1999 Sm, W, E, F, Fj, Nab; 2000 It; 2002 S, USA, USA, U, C, W, F; 2003 U©, USA©, A©, W, T; 2005 F; 2006 USA (50)Scoring: 15 points: --3t: Jt97, 98At, USA (1) 2002t)A caps: 2003 NZM, NZM (2A)Captain 2003 U, USA, Arg French Barbarians vs South Africa 97 and Argentina 98, French Press XV 2000. French Barbarians 2001 vs Fiji; French Barbarians vs Australia A 2005. French Championship three times (2003, 2004, 2007) and double finalists in the Heineken Cup (2001, 2005).RWC: 1995 R, Aust. 1999 F, Fj, Nab. 2003 W, T. (7)Nickname “ Big Guy”


ADAM KLEEBERGER - Began playing rugby at Semiahmoo High School in White Rock, and in the junior ranks of the Bayside RFC. Won selection to the BC U-19 team before playing a season for the Warringah Rats in Sydney, Australia. Returned home to be selected for Canada’s U-19 team at the World Championships in France, in 2003. Played for the Canada U-21 at the World Championships in 2004, and again, in Argentina, in

2005. Has represented Canada at Sevens including the Commonwealth Games in Melbourne in March 2006. Toured with Canada ‘A’ to New Zealand in 2006 and scored his first try for Canada against Barbados in its RWC Qualifying match. Played in all Churchill Cup matches in 2007 scoring a try against the USA and another against the NZ Maori.

Club University of VictoriaPosition FlankerBirth date March 2, 1984Hometown White Rock, BCHeight 6’ 1” (186cms)Weight 215 lbs. (98kgs.)Representative Honours International caps: 2005 F, R; 2006 USA, Bb, It; 2007 USA, NZ (7) Scoring: 10—Bb06t; USA 07(t)A caps: 2006 S (A), E (A); 2007 Ireland ‘A’, NZM (4A)Scoring: 5 points: 07NZM (t)Sevens World Cup 2006 Nickname “Kleebs”

STAN MCKEEN - A graduate of St. Georges’ School, Vancouver with whom he toured to Chile and Argentina. Played for Vancouver and B.C. U-18 before being selected to the Canada U-19 team playing at the U-19 World Cup in Chile in 2001, where he won the prestigious Stuart Pegg MVP Award for his stellar play. Played at University of Victoria for two years before going to the U-23 PacificSport Rugby Academy in Victoria. Won his first five international caps at the Super Powers and Churchill Cup

tournaments in 2004, and has continued holding his place, save for injury, ever since. Plays professionally for the Cornish Pirates in England.

Club Cornish Pirates/U.B.C. Old Boy RavensPosition #8/FlankerBirth date April 9, 1982Hometown Vancouver, BCHeight 6'3” (191 cm)Weight 228 lbs (103 kg)Representative Honours International caps: 2004 USA, J, USA, F, It, E; 2005 USA, J, W, F, R; 2006 USA, USA, W, It; 2007 USA, NZ (17)


A caps: 2004 E (A); 05 E (A); 06 S (A); 2007 Ireland ‘A’ (4A)Nickname “Ipkiss”

JUSTIN MENSAH-COKER - Attended to Kitsilano High School where he excelled at basketball earning scholarship offers to US Universities. Instead of pursuing those offers he earned a berth on Canada’s U-19 team tour to Italy and chose to play rugby. He then went to the U-23 PacificSport rugby Academy for two years and has played for Canada’s Sevens at many tournaments including the Sevens World Cup in 2005 and the Commonwealth Games in 2006. Has scored three tries in his first five games for

Canada. Plays with Albi in the French Top 14 in 2006/2007.

Club Albi (France)/Meraloma R.F.C.Position WingBirth date November 18,1983Hometown Vancouver BCHeight 6’ 5” (195 cms)Weight 235 lbs (106 kgs)Representative Honours International caps: 2006 USA, Bb, USA, W, It; 2007 USA, NZ (7)Scoring: (15 –06 USA (2), Bb--3t)A caps: 2006 S (A), E (A), (2A)Sevens World Cup 2005; Commonwealth Games 2006Nickname “Monzie”

ANDER MONRO - Born in North York Hospital when his father, who was in the British Army, was stationed in Canada. Returned to Scotland where he attended Glenalmond College representing Scotland at the U-15, U-16 and U-19 levels. Joined Heriots F.P. upon graduation from school, and while

attending Edinburgh University, winning the Scottish Cup with them in 2003-2004. Selected to the Scotland sevens squad in 2000 for the Twickenham Sevens, where he won the goal-kicking competition, despite not playing in the tournament. Won his first ‘A’ cap against England Saxons at the 2006 Churchill Cup contributing six points from two penalties and then played against the USA and later Barbados and USA in RWC Qualifying matches as well as Wales and Italy in November ’06. Played against the NZ

Maori at the 2007 Churchill Cup and was a member of Canada’s touring squad to New Zealand in June 2007.

Club Edinburgh Gunners/WaterlooBirth date September 6, 1981Hometown Edinburgh, ScotlandPosition Outside-half; scrum-half; centre


Height 5’ 10” (178 cm)Weight 183 lbs (88 kg.)Representative Honours International caps: 2006 USA, Bb, USA, W, It (5)Scoring: 6 points: I 2006 2p)A caps: 2006 E (A); 07 NZM (2A)Scoring: 6 points E ‘A’ 2006 2p Nickname “Lord Monro”

DAN PLETCH - A graduate of Medway High School in London, Ontario, he later attended McMaster University. He and his twin brother, Mike, also a prop, have played together for Ontario U-16, U-18, Canada U-19 and Canada, the first twins ever to prop together internationally. They went to the U-19 Championships in Chile in 2001 and the Italy in 2002 where Dan won “Man of the Match” in the final game. Both played for Canada at the U-21 World Championships in England in 2003. He and his brother have amassed

ten U-19 caps and five U-21 caps. Dan earned his first three Senior Men’s caps at the Super Powers Cup and Churchill Cups and further caps against Italy and England in 2004, at the Super Cup in Tokyo against Wales and England ‘A’ in 2005, and in all of Canada’s games in 2006. Scored his first try for Canada against Wales in November 2006 and his second against the USA in 2007.

Club Oakville CrusadersPosition PropBirth date April 12, 1983Hometown Lucan, ONHeight 5'11” (180 cm)Weight 240 lbs (109 kg)Representative Honours International caps: 2004 USA, J, It, E; 2005 USA, J, W; 2006 USA, Bb, USA, W, It; 2007 USA, NZ (14)Scoring: 10 points –W 06t; USA 07tA caps: 2004 E (A); 05 E (A); 06 S (A), E (A); 2007 Ire.‘A’, NZM (6A)

MIKE PLETCH - Two minutes older than his identical twin Dan, their rugby careers virtually mirror one another. Like his brother, Dan, also a prop, he has played for Ontario U-16, U-18 and Canada U-19 teams. He went to the U-19 Championships in Chile in2001 and the Italy in 2002 and the U-21 World Championships in England in 2003. He and his brother have amassed ten U-19 caps and five U-21 caps. He graduated from Civil Engineering and Management at McMaster University in Hamilton in 2007. Both he and

his brother started against Scotland ‘A’ in the 2006 Churchill Cup, the first twins ever to start internationally in the front-row. Named McMaster University “Male Athlete of the Year” for 2006.


Club Oakville CrusadersPosition PropBirth date April 12, 1983Hometown Lucan, ONHeight 5'11” (180 cm)Weight 246 lbs (112 kg)Representative Honours International caps: 2005 Arg; 2006 USA, Bb, W, It; 2007 USA, NZ (7)A caps: 2006 S (A), E (A); 2007 Ireland ‘A’, NZM (4A)

JAMES PRITCHARD - Born in Parkes, NSW, he began playing Rugby League for Parramatta Eels before switching to Rugby Union with Randwick, winning the Premiership and ‘Most Improved Player’ honours in 2000. Playing for Bedford (Eng.), he won the National Division One scoring title in 2002/2003, setting a new record of 374 points and winning ‘Player of the Year’ honours. With a grandfather from Ruthilda, Saskatchewan, came to Canada to play for the RC Super League Prairie Fire and to

pursue a 2003 RWC place. Scored a try against Argentina in Buenos Aires and played against Wales and Tonga at the 2003 RWC kicking a conversion in each game. Recalled for Canada in 2006 he set a new Canadian scoring record of 29 points in the game against Barbados and surpassed that against the USA, in Canada’s RWC Qualifying game in Newfoundland in August 2006, with 36 points from three tries, three penalties and six conversions.

Club Bedford (Eng.)Position Fullback/WingBirth date July 21, 1979Hometown Sydney, AustraliaHeight 5' 10” (175 cm)Weight 143 lbs (85 kg)Representative Honours International caps: 2003 U, USA, Arg, W, T; 2006 USA, Bb, USA, W; 2007 USA, NZ (11)Scoring: 140-points -- 8t, 11p, 29c: 2003 USA (2p 2c), Arg (t), W (c), T c; 2006:USA (t, 3p, 2c), Bb (3t, 7c)*, USA (3t, 3p, 6c)*, W (3p 2c); 2007 USA (p,7c), NZ (2p,c)A caps: 2003 NZM, NZM; 06 S (A); 2007 Ireland ‘A’, NZM (5A)Scoring: 32 points – 4p,c: NZM (2) 3p, 2006 S(A) (p, c); 2007 Ireland ‘A’(2p,2c); NZM ( 2p,c)RWC: 2003 W, T (2). 4 points (W©, T ©). Nickname “Pritch”


MIKE PYKE - A graduate of St. Michael’s University School, Victoria, where he played soccer and basketball as well as rugby. In 2001, while still in grade 11, he received a last minute call to join the Canada U-19 team to the Chile World Youth Championship where he won two caps at outside-half. He went on to win fourteen U-19 caps. After graduating from St. Michaels he won a scholarship to Colston’s Collegiate in England before returning to attend the U. of Victoria before going to the PacificSport Rugby

Academy where he scored sixteen tries and 210 points as B.C. Premier League Top try and points scorer. Won his first international cap against Japan, at age 20, and two more at the Churchill Cup in 2004. Added three more caps in 2005 scoring ten points playing fullback against Romania. Scored tries against Scotland ‘A’, Barbados, USA and Wales in 2006. Played professionally at Edinburgh Gunners 2004-2006 but moved to Montauban for the 2006/07 season. Scored a memorable intercept, 80-metre try against the All-Blacks in June 2007.

Club Montauban (France)Position Wing/FullbackBirth date March 24, 1984Hometown Victoria, BCHeight 6’5” (196 cm)Weight 229 lbs (104 kg)Representative Honours International caps: 2004 USA, J, USA, It; 2005 USA, F, R; 2006 S (A), E (A), USA, Bb, USA, W, It; 2007 USA, NZ (17)Scoring: 30 points: (3t, 2p, 2c): R 2005 (2p, 2c); 2006 Bb (t), USA (t), W(t); NZ (t) A caps: 2006 S (A), E (A);07 Ireland ‘A’, NZM (4A)Scoring: 10 points: S (A) ‘06 t; NZM‘07tNickname “Pyker”

PAT RIORDAN - Started playing rugby in Grade 9 at Newton Junior Secondary School in Surrey and continued on at Tamanawis Secondary School. Selected to Canada U-17 tour to England in 1997, he gave up playing ice-hockey to concentrate on rugby. Played with Gold Coast Breakers, Brisbane for season and returned to play for BC U-21 before going to Auckland and playing with the College Rifles. Won BC Premier League “Player of the Year” and his first cap for Canada in 2003. Played the 2003 season with Pontypridd RFC


making it to the Semifinals of Welsh Cup. Played for Canada at the Super Powers Cup and at the Churchill cup in 2004. Injury prevented play in 2005, but he recovered to tour with Canada ‘A’ to NZ in April and to play in all of Canada’s tests in 2006 and 2007.

Club Burnaby Lake R.F.C.Position HookerBirth date September 30, 1979Hometown Burnaby, BCHeight 6’ 1”(185cms)Weight 233 lbs (106 kgs)Representative Honours International caps: 2004 USA, J, USA; 2006 USA, Bb, USA, W, It; 2007 USA, NZ (14) A caps: 2003 E (A); 04 E (A); 06 S (A), E (A); 07 Ireland ‘A, NZM (6A)

RYAN SMITH - A product of Mayfield Secondary, Brampton R.F.C. and Canada’s U-23 PacificSport rugby programs. Toured to Germany with the Pacific Pride in 2002 and played for the RCSL Toronto Renegades and Xtreme in 2002 and 2003 and for Eastern Canada vs. Scotland in 2002. Won his first international cap as a replacement against England in the Churchill Cup and his first start against the NZ Maori in Toronto following a solid performance for the RCSL Super League Eastern All-Stars. Appeared in

all Pan-Am games in 2003 and against New Zealand and Tonga at the RWC 2003. Played in all seven of Canada’s games in 2004 scoring a try against England A. He added a further try against the USA at the 2005 Super Cup where he also played #10, for the first time, in Canada’s Final win over Japan. Played a significant role as #10 in Canada’s 22-15 win over Argentina in which he scored a try. Played against France and Romania in 2005 and earned “ Player of the Year” honours. Captained Canada against Scotland ‘A’ in 2006. Registered his fourth try against Barbados in Canada’s RWCQ match in 2006.

Club Montauban (Fr.)/ Brampton BeaversPosition Outside-half/CentreBirth date September 13, 1979Hometown Caledon, ONHeight 6’3” (191 cm)Weight 205 lbs (93 kg)Representative Honours International caps: 2003 U, USA, Arg, W, NZ, T; 2004 USA, J, USA, F, It, E; 2005 USA, J, W, USA, Arg, F, R; 2006 Bb, USA, W, It; 2007 USA, NZ (25) Scoring: 15 points- 3t: USA 2005t, Arg 2005t, 2006 Bb (t)

A caps: 2003 E (A), NZM, NZM; 04 E (A); 05 E (A); 06 S (A) (Capt); 07 Ireland ‘A’, NZM (8A)Scoring: 5 points: E (A)’04t)Captain: S (A) 06


Sevens World Cup 2005 RWC: 2003 W, NZ, T (3)Nickname “P.P.”

Rod Snow - Began as a flanker with Newfoundland and then switched to prop only to win his first cap as hooker against Argentina in 1995. He played in three ‘95 World Cup games, scoring a try against Romania. Played for Eastern Province before contracting with Newport in the Welsh first division playing with that club for a decade until 2005. Scored three tries in the ‘96 Pac Rim Tournament and another against the Eagles in ‘97.

Played in four Epson Cup ’99 matches and in all 1999 R.W.C. games scoring two tries against Namibia. At the 2003 RWC he played in all tests. Selected as a Barbarian and to the World XV vs Argentina in 1999. Recalled to Canada in 2006 he played against the USA and Barbados scoring his eighth international try against the USA in front of his hometown St. John’s crowd. He is Canada’s record-holding prop.

Club DogsPosition PropBirth date May 1, 1970Hometown St. John’s, NFDHeight 5’ 11” (180 cms)Weight 265 lbs. (120 Kgs)Representative Honours International caps: 1995 A, NZ, R, Aust, SA, USA; 1996

HK, HK, J (2), Aust; 1997 USA, HK, J , W, Irl; 1998 USA, USA, USA, A;1999 J, Fj, Sm, USA, W, E, F, Fj, Nab; 2000 Irl ,J, It; 2001 USA, A, E, E, Fj, J; 2002 S, USA, USA, U, C, U, C, W, F; 2003 U,USA, A, W, NZ, It, T; 2006 USA, Bb, USA

(57) Scoring: 40 points – 8t: R95t, HK(2)


96 2t,J 96t, USA97t, Nab99 2t, USA 06 t Barbarians, World XV vs Argentina ‘99RWC: 1995 R, Aust., S.A. 1999: F, Fj, Nab. 2003: W, NZ, It, T (10)

Nickname “Cod”

DAVID SPICER - A graduate of St. Michael’s University School in Victoria he played for Canada’s U-19 team at the 2003 and 2004 World Championships in France and in South Africa winning the Stuart Pegg Award as Canada’s best U-19 player in 2004. Chosen to Canada’s Senior Men’s team tour to Italy and England in November 2004, he won his first cap as a substitute against England making him the third youngest to ever win a Canadian cap. Captained Canada’s U-21 team at the World Championships in Mendoza,

Argentina in 2005, and on Canada’s November European tour earned his first start against Romania in Bucharest. Played in all of Canada’s tests in 2006 except against Italy because of injury. Returned in 2007 to start in all of Canada’s tests.

Club University of VictoriaPosition Outside-half/ CentreBirth date May 31, 1985Hometown Victoria, B.C.Height 5’10” (178cms.)

Weight 211 lbs. (96 kgs.)Representative Honours International caps: 2004 E; 2005 R; 2006 USA, Bb, USA, W; 2007 USA, NZ (8) Scoring: 5 points: USA07tA caps: 2006 S (A), E (A); Ireland ‘A” (3A) Nickname “Mojo”

SEAN-MICHAEL STEPHEN - From Oakville, he captained the PacificSport U-23 Academy team in its 2004/2005 season. He played for Ontario U-18s and U-21s and the Canada’s U-19 teams. Can play in all back five positions of the scrum and earned his first caps in the 2005 Churchill Cup as a flanker. Recalled in 2006 he has played impressively scoring two tries against Barbados and another in the RWC Qualifier against the USA in August 2006. Signed professionally for Bezier in 2006/2007, but returned at season’s end to

play against the USA in the Churchill Cup and score two tries and win “ Man of the Match” honours.

Club Bezier /Oakville CrusadersPosition Back rowBirth date October 27, 1982Hometown Oakville, ONHeight 6’ 5” (196 cm)Weight 238 lbs (108 kg)


Representative Honours International Caps: 2005 USA; 2006 USA, Bb, USA, W; 2007 USA, NZ (7)Scoring: 25 pts. 2tBb, USA t 06; USA 07(2t)A caps: 2005 E (A); 06 S (A), E(A) (3A) Nickname “Shmacky”

LUKE TAIT - Attended Barrie Central High School in Ontario but left after grade 11 to attend Cwmcarn School in Wales from which he graduated. He played for the Cardiff RFC U-19 team as a sixteen-year-old and continued playing in the club’s junior teams for four years before signing a professional contract with the Cardiff club. He played for Wales U-19 and U-21 and after playing two years with Cardiff he moved to the Swansea-Neath Ospreys where he played until 2005 before joining Parma in Italy. Won his first two caps against the USA and Japan at the Super Cup in 2005 and his third

against Wales in Toronto and his fourth against England ‘A’ in the 2005 Churchill Cup. Has played in all of Canada’s tests in 2006 and against the NZ Maori and NZ in 2007. His older brother, John, is Canada’s Assistant Coach.

Club: Overmach Parma, ItalyPosition: LockBirth date: October 26, 1981Hometown Barrie, ONHeight: 6’ 5” (199 cm)Weight:231 lbs (105 kg)Representative Honours International caps: 2005 USA, J, W; 2006USA, Bb, USA, W, It; 2007 USA, NZ (10) A caps: 2005 E (A); 06 S (A), E (A); 07 NZM (4A)

JON THIEL - A product of Semiahmoo High School and a graduate of the U-23 PacificSport Rugby Academy, he played a season in New Zealand and has represented his province at the Under 17 and Under 19 and Canada at Under 19 levels. Toured


Ireland with Canada in November 1997 where he played against Ireland A in Belfast. Earned his first two caps in Pac Rim 1998 and his third against Uruguay in World Cup Qualifiers in Argentina. Played in all five Epson Cup matches, and against Wales and England in 1999. Claimed the starting tight-head position against France and Namibia in World Cup ’99. Played against SA, Ireland and Samoa in 2000. Scored a try against the USA in the 2001 PARA Tournament, and played against Argentina. He also represented Canada in the two 2001 Tests against England. Toured with Canada to Australia in May 2002 and scored a vital try in Canada’s 26-23 win over Scotland and another against Uruguay in Edmonton. In 2003 was called upon as an injury replacement to play for Canada’s Sevens Team at the London Sevens where he played in all five games and scored a try against France. Later in 2003 he played in the PARA Tournament and against Wales and Italy at RWC 2003. Played professionally for the Sale Sharks 2000, Narbonne in 2001, Bridgend 2002, and Llanelli 2003/’04, but has since returned to Canada where he plays and coaches Bayside RFC. Played against France in 2004.

Club Bayside R.F.C.Position PropBirth date May 31, 1975Hometown Aldergrove, BCHeight 6'1” (185 cm)Weight 251 lbs (114 kg)Representative Honours 1998 HK, J, U; 1999 J, Fj, Sm, USA, T, W, E, F, Fj, Nab; 2000 SA, Irl, Sm, Fj, J; 2001 USA, A, E, E; 2002 S, USA, USA, U, C, U, W, F; 2003 U, USA, A, W, It; 2004 F (36Scoring: 15 pts. –3t: USA 2000t; 2002 S, URWC: 1999: F, Fj, Nab. 2003: W, It (5)Nickname “ Telio”

KEVIN TKACHUK - Formerly a gridiron and wrestling star in Regina, Saskatchewan he honed his rugby skills at the U-23 PacificSport Rugby Academy and earned his first call to the Senior squad against Samoa in the 1999 Epson Cup campaign. Captain of the National Super League Prairie Fire, he toured Fiji with the Super League All Stars in October 1999. Won his first international cap against Tonga in Epson Cup 2000 and also played against the USA, South Africa, Samoa, Fiji and Italy. Won Oxford Blues in ’01, ’02

and ’03 while earning a Masters degree in History and played for the University against Australia in 2001, scoring a try. Toured Australia with Canada in May, 2002 and played against Chile and Uruguay in Canada’s WC Qualifying campaign as well as against Wales and France in November 2002. In 2003 played in all of Canada’s summer tests, scoring tries against NZ Maori, Uruguay and Argentina. Played in all four RWC games in 2003 scoring a try against Wales. Captained Canada against England A, USA, France, Italy and England in 2004. Played in Super Cup in Japan, scoring a try against the USA, and captained Canada against Wales in 2005. Chosen as a Barbarian and as Glasgow’s “Player of the Year” in 2006.


Club Glasgow Warriors, ScotlandPosition PropBirth date September 11, 1976Hometown Regina, SKHeight 5'11” (180 cm)Weight 254 lbs (115 kg)Representative Honours International caps: 2000 T, USA, SA, Sm, Fj, It; 2001 Fj, J; 2002C, U, C, W, F; 2003 USA, U, USA, Arg,W, NZ,It ,T; 2004 USA , F , It, E; 2005 USA (t), J, W, Arg, F, R; 2006 USA,W, It; 2007 USA, NZ (36) Scoring: 20 points – 4t:U’03t, Arg’03t, W’03 (t); USA ‘05tCaptain: 2004 USA, F, I, E, 205 W (5)A caps: 2003 E (A) (Capt), NZM, NZM; 04 E (A); 07 Ireland ‘A’, NZM (6A)Scoring: 5 points: 2003 NZM t)Captain: 2004 –E(A), USA,F,I,E; 2005 WOxford Blue 2001, 2002, 2003 Barbarian (Scotland and Georgia 2006)RWC: 2003 W, NZ, It, T (4) 5 points W (t)Nickname “T-Bone”

NICK TRENKEL - Though born in SA, he attended Handsworth Secondary School in North Vancouver where he played rugby and football. He has since played rugby for B.C. at U-16, U-17, U-18, captaining the 2004 B.C. U-18 to the Canadian Summer Games, winning Gold. In 2006 he played for Canada U-19 to the World Cup in Dubai in 2006 and on its tour to Ireland. In the fall of 2006 he returned to South Africa, on a scholarship, to attend the Rugby Performance Centre Academy in Cape Town, but returned to Canada to win a

place on Canada’s Sevens team to the Hong Kong and Adelaide tournaments. Chosen to Canada’s New Zealand tour squad in June 2007 he played a solid game against the NZ U-21s that won him selection to this World Cup squad.

Club: CapilanoPosition: CentreBirth date: April 7, 1987Hometown North Vancouver, BCHeight: 6’1” (180 cms.)Weight:205 lbs. (94 kgs.)Representative Honours Uncapped.


DTH VAN DER MERWE - Born in South Africa, Daniel Tailliferre Hauman (DTH) Van der Merwe began playing at age five and later made the Boland U-16 Provincial team. In 2003 his family immigrated to Regina where he attended Dr. Martin Le Boldus High School and make the Saskatchewan U-18, U-21 and RCSL Prairie Fire teams. He also played gridiron for the Regina Rogues. In 2005 he moved to Victoria where he currently

plays for James Bay A. A. Came on as a substitute in his debut against Barbados in the second-half and scored two tries. Was a member of Canada’s November tour to Wales and Italy in 2006, winning his second-cap on the wing as a replacement against Italy. He toured with Canada to New Zealand in June 2007.

Club: James Bay Athletic AssociationPosition: Fullback/Wing/ CentreBirth date: 28 April, 1986Hometown Regina, SKHeight: 6’ (182 cms.)Weight:195 lb. (89 kg.)Representative Honours International caps: 2006 Bb, It (2)Scoring: 10 points: Bb 06 2t) Nickname “The Alphabet” or “Jenkins”

MIKE WEBB - A product of West Vancouver High School he has played for Vancouver U-17 before being selected for Canada U-19 at the FIRA Championship where Canada placed fourth. Later played for B.C. U-20 winning Gold. A graduate of the PacificSport Academy in Victoria, he captained the side in the 2003-4 season and toured with it to Germany, Chile and the Cayman Island. In 2004, played at the Wellington and LA Sevens before going to the Super Powers Cup in Japan in 2004 where he captained Canada in

his first international to a 23-20 win over the USA, and against Japan. Played in all of Canada’s games in 2005 captaining it against England ‘A’ and the USA. Injured against France in 2005 he returned to international action against the USA in Canada’s RWC Qualifying match in St. John’s and played against Wales and Italy on Canada’s November tour to Europe in 2006. Played in the 2007 Barclays Churchill Cup and was a member of Canada’s tour to New Zealand in 2007, playing a leading role in Canada’s win over the NZ U-21 team in Rotorua. Is working on his doctorate in Clinical Epidemiology.

Club Vancouver Rowing ClubPosition Flanker


Birth date June 19, 1979Hometown North Vancouver, BCHeight 6'1” (185 cm)Weight 227 lbs (103 kg)Representative Honours International caps: 2004 USA, J, USA, F, It; 2005 USA, J, W, USA, Arg, F; 2006 USA, W, It (14)A caps: 2005 E (A) (Capt); 07 NZM (2A)Captain: 2004 USA, J; 2005 USA and E (A)Nickname “Webbie”

MATT WEINGART - From the William’s Lake Rustlers club, he has played for Canada U-19 and U-20 teams as well as the U-23 PacificSport Academy. Won his first cap when he came off the bench against Japan in Super Powers Cup in 2004. Came on replacing Pat Fleck against the USA at the Super Powers Cup in 2005 and earned his first start against Japan at the same tournament. Earned further caps against England A and the USA at the 2005

Churchill Cup and was a member of the France and Romania tour party in November of that year earning his sixth cap against France.

Club Castaway-WanderersPosition Scrum-halfBirth date: June 26, 1982Hometown: Williams Lake, BCHeight: 5’ 10” (179 cm)Weight:178 lbs. (81 kg)Representative Honours 2004 J; 2005 USA, J, USA, F (5) A caps: 2005 E (A) (1A)Nickname “Peaches”

MORGAN WILLIAMS (CAPTAIN) - Canada’s star of the ’99 World Cup scoring two tries against France and one against Namibia. His fine play won him a contract with Begles-Bordeaux the next season. A graduate of the U-23 PacificSport Rugby Academy program he earned his first cap against Tonga in Epson Cup ’99 then claimed the starting scrum-half position against Wales on Canada’s pre-World Cup tour to Britain in August ’99 and continued on through the World Cup against France, Fiji and Namibia. Though born in

Kingston, Ontario he has played in Nova Scotia for Cole Harbour R.F.C. Named to National Super League All-Star team for his play with the Nova Scotia Keiths in 1998. Played against Tonga, South Africa, Ireland, Samoa, Fiji, Japan and Italy in 2000. In 2001 played in the European Cup Final for Stade Francais, both Tests against England, and in both matches against Fiji and Japan in the Pacific Rim Championships. Played in Canada’s 26-23 win over Scotland and scored a try against Uruguay in Edmonton in 2002 WCQ action. A member of Canada’s 2002 Commonwealth Games Sevens team, he scored his sixth try against


England in 2003 and his seventh against the USA in the Pan Am. Played against Wales, Italy and Tonga at RWC in 2003, and against England A, USA and France in 2004, scoring a try against England A. Captained Canada for the first time in a 23-15 win over Argentina in July and in Nov. against France and Romania. Played three of Canada’s games in 2006, leading the team to wins over the USA and Barbados. Scored two tries against the USA at the Barclays Churchill Cup in 2007.

Club Albi, FrancePosition Scrum-halfBirth date April 17, 1976Hometown Cole Harbour, NSHeight 5’ 11” (182 cm)Weight 194 lbs. (84 kg)

Representative Honours International caps: 1999 T, W, E, F, Fj, Nab; 2000 T, SA, Irl, Sm, Fj, J, It; 2001 E, E, Fj, J; 2002 S, USA, USA, U, C, W, F; 2003 USA, U, USA, Arg, W, It, T; 2004 USA; F; 2005 W, Arg, F, R; 2006 USA, Bb, USA, W, It: 2007 USA, NZ (44)Captain: 2005 Arg, F, R: 2006 USA, Bb, USA, W, It; 2007 USA, NZScoring: (58 points: 11 t, dg )1999 F 2t, Nab, t.; 2000 T t; 2002 U t, W dg; 2003 USA(2) t; 2004 USA t; 2005 R (t), 2006 USA t; USA 2t A caps: 2003 E (A), NZM, NZM; 04 E(A); 06 E(A); 07 Ireland ‘A’, NZM (7A)Captain: ’06 E(A); 07 Ireland ‘A’Scoring: 5 points; 2003 E (A) t)Barbarian, Sevens World Cup 2001, Commonwealth Games 2002, 2006.RWC: 1999 F, Fj, Nab. 2003: W, It, T. (6) 15 points 1999 F (2t), Nab (t).Nickname “Goon”

COLIN YUKES - From Edmonton, toured Scotland with the National Junior squad in 1997. Played in the World Junior Championships and toured Ireland in 1998. Attended the U-23 PacificSport Rugby Academy in Victoria for three years. Came on as a replacement in the 2001 PARA tournament match against Uruguay and started against both Fiji and Japan in the 2001 Pacific Rim Championships. Toured Germany with Young Canada in April 2002 and played for Canada East, Canada West and in Canada’s 26-23

win over Scotland in June 2002 and earned further caps in Canada’s 36-13 win over the USA in Chicago and against Uruguay in Edmonton. Helped U.Vic. win the BC Premier Championship in 2003 and played in all of Canada’s tests. Played in all four RWC matches in 2003 and in all seven of Canada’s matches in 2004 after which his teammates chose him as Canada’s 2004 “Player of the Year”. Just completed his third professional season with Agen RFC in France.


Club Agen (France)Position LockBirth date October 23, 1979Hometown Edmonton, ABHeight 6'7” (201 cm)Weight 254 lbs (115 kg)Representative Honours International caps: 2001 U, Fj, J; 2002 S, USA, U, U; 2003 USA, USA, Arg, W, NZ, It, T; 2004 USA, J, USA, F, It, E; 2005 W; 2006 USA, Bb, USA; 2007 USA, NZ (26)

A caps: 2003 E (A), NZM, NZM; 04 E(A); 06 E(A); 07 Ireland ‘A’ (6A) RWC: 2003 W, NZ, It, T (4) Nickname “Yuksie”

Management and Coaches

HEAD COACH: RIC SUGGITT - From Edmonton, Alberta where he played fullback for the Clansmen RFC and the provincial team, he became National Senior Men’s coach in February 2004. Prior to assuming the Men’s program Suggitt successfully coached the Senior Women’s team for four years. He has also coached the National Sevens team from 1999 ‘til 2004. He also served as Head Coach of RC’s U-23 Academy in Kingston Ontario for two years.

ASSISTANT COACH: JOHN TAIT - Although born in Orangeville, Ontario he attended the University of Ulster and played for Irish Colleges and Ulster U23. A graduate of the PacificSport U23 program he won his first of 37 caps in the 1997 Pac Rim Championship. He turned professional in 1998 with the Cardiff Club where he played for six seasons before moving to the Brive club in France in 2002. He played as Canada’s starting lock in the 1999 World Cup. A neck injury forced a premature retirement. Has coached Canada’s

forwards in all of its 2005 games.

ASSISTANT COACH: GLEN ELLA - Born in La Perouse, Sydney in 1959 he rose to prominence with his twin brother Mark and younger brother Gary with the triumphant Australian Schoolboys team that went undefeated on its tour to Britain in 1978. Playing fullback he went on to earn four caps between 1982 and 1985 -- one against Canada in Brisbane in 1985 -- and later went on to coach the Australian Sevens team, on three different occasions throughout the 1990s, and was Assistant Coach of the Wallabies in

1994-95 and from 2000-2003. He was appointed Assistant Coach of Canada in 2007.


ASSISTANT COACH: KEVIN WIRACHOWSKI - Earned nineteen caps for Canada in an eleven-year career from 1992-2003, and is generally regarded as one of Canada’s best set props. He put his mechanical and metal fabricating skills into developing and building a “Scrumaster” machine that he has sold worldwide.

MANAGER: BOB MCGEEIN - Earned a cap for Canada against Wales in 1973. Has been a player, coach and administrator in Ontario since 1963 and coached the Ontario team from 1991-1998. He acted as Assistant-Coach and Manager of the RC U-23 Academy in Kingston, Ontario when Ric Suggitt served as its Head Coach. He is a long-time member of the Brantford Harlequins RFC.

MANAGER’S ASSISTANT: TERRY MACPHERSON - A Principal with the Edmonton School Board, he runs an Elementary and Special Needs school for pre-school and elementary children. Is a member of the St. Albert RFC where he has served in every capacity since its foundation. Acted as Assistant-Manager of Canada’s 2003 RWC

squad and has since shared the Managerial Post with Manager Bob McGeein.

STRENGTH AND CONDITIONING COACH: TYLER GOODALE - Completed his B.Sc. at the University of Manitoba and his M.Sc in Exercise Physiology at the University of Victoria. He holds credentials as a Strength and Conditioning Specialist (CSCS) through the National Strength and Conditioning Association (NSCA) and is a certified coach in Olympic weightlifting. As a strength and conditioning coach he has worked with athletes from a great variety of sports. He currently acts as the strength and conditioning coach for the

Canadian Sport Centre – Pacific and is responsible for national team athletes representing Canada in diving, swimming, rowing, athletics and rugby.

HP CO-ORDINATOR: GERAINT JOHN - Appointed Canada’s High Performance Coordinator in January 2006. Earned ten Wales “A” caps and played over 200 games for Cardiff. He played for the Barbarians six times including against New Zealand in 1986. Began coaching in 1995 at club and academy levels before becoming backs coach for Wales. Served in that role under Kevin Bowering and Graham Henry. From 1995-2002 he coached all National age groups from U-16s right through to U-21s and “A” levels,

with the U-19 side reaching the Junior World Cup final only to lose to Argentina and the “As” and U-21s taking the Six Nations title winning all their games.


VIDEO ANALYST: DAVID JOHNSTON - This former wing with the U.B.C. Old Boy Ravens has coached Canada at the U-17 level, and oversaw the Canada U-19 program from 1998 to 2004 taking the team to six World Cups and to a fourth place finish at the 1998 FIRA World Championship and a sixth place finish in 1999. He has also coached the British Columbia provincial team against England ‘A’ in ’03 and the NZ Maori in ’04, and acted as NSMT Assistant Coach for the Super Cup in 2005 and

Canada ‘A’ tour to New Zealand in 2006.

DOCTORS: DR. ANDREW EVERETT - Originally from Cape Town South Africa where he played tight-head prop for the University of Cape Town/South AfricanUniversities/Western Province U20. He also holds Oxford Blues, 1990 and 1991(Captain). Recently moved from Fort St John, B.C. to Brockville, Ontario where

he is an emergency physician.

DR. MIKE WILKINSON: Dr Mike Wilkinson practices sports medicine in Vancouver, BC and is a member of the medical team for the Canadian and BC Men’s Rugby teams. He graduated from Wits University in South Africa and completed his training in sports medicine in Cape Town and Vancouver. He is also one of the NHL Vancouver Canucks physicians.

ATHLETIC THERAPIST: KIM OSLUND - Kim Oslund is a certified athletic therapist based in Victoria, BC. She has a Bachelor of Science from the University of Victoria and a Diploma in Sports Injury Management from Sheridan College in Ontario. She has worked with a variety of rugby teams in the last 5 years: including the University of Victoria Vikes Rugby, Tide Super league, British Columbia representative teams, North American 4’s and

National Seven’s programs. She was previously the Head Athletic Therapist for the Victoria Salmon Kings Professional Hockey club, a member of the East Coast Hockey league.

PHYSIOTHERAPIST: VINCE AVERY - Earned his Physiotherapist Degree at the University of Alberta in Edmonton where he played with and was coached by National team coach Ric Suggitt. Owner of the South Cowichan Physiotherapy Clinic, Vince is a resident of Vancouver Island where he plays fullback for the Cowichan RFC on Saturday afternoons. “Howdie” has traveled the world working with the Canada Sevens team since 2001. His

first tour with the National Senior Men’s team was to New Zealand in June 2007.

MASSAGE THERAPIST: SANDRA BOSICH - Massage Therapist for Rugby Canada since 2000, Sandra has also tended the Toronto Saracens Rugby Club for many years. Selected for Canada's Medical Team for


both the 1999 and 2001 World University Games, she has worked alternately in private practice and college instruction of massage for ten years. Has served as Canada’s massage therapist on many recent tours.

SPECIAL AMBASSADOR AND INTERPRETER: AL CHARRON - Canada’s most capped player with 76 caps; played in four Rugby World Cups captaining Canada at the 2003 event; captained his country twenty-five times. Played professional rugby in Europe and for the Barbarian Club on six occasions, and captained them during the 2000 Mobbs memorial game. Played for World XV vs Argentina, and voted “Player of the Year” by Moseley fans in 1997, Bristol fans in 1999 and by Canada’s players as Canada’s “Player

of the Year” 2001 and 2003. He retired following the 2003 RWC and now writes a column for the Rugby Canada website.

PRESS OFFICER: IAN KENNEDY - Retired from school-teaching in both Ireland and Canada. Played at Queen’s University, Belfast; U.B.C., and U.B.C. Old Boys where he managed successful tours. Has written several local histories and is a contributor to Rugby World, National Rugby Post and other rugby publications. When not involved with rugby, he writes local history books, rides a BMW and writes for motorcycle touring magazines. Has been Canada’s Press Officer since 1996.

DAVID BIDDLE - BC Rugby News BIDDLE - A product of Kitsilano High School, ... 21 team at the World...

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