Earlier this spring in Halifax, Rugby Canada and the Provincial Unions came together for biannual working meetings. A key fixture in a shared commitment to developing the game, these meetings marked another significant step forward in building a unified, national approach to growing rugby in Canada.

Through months of collaboration, extensive consultation, and shared strategic focus, Rugby Canada and its provincial partners achieved a major outcome: the creation of a National Growth Plan for 2025–2030. This work reflects a renewed sense of purpose, partnership, and momentum across the country, rooted in a vision to create strong, sustainable rugby communities that are inclusive, safe, and fun.

Launching the National Growth Plan 2025–2030

The National Growth Plan 2025–2030 is our collective roadmap to strengthen the rugby ecosystem from coast to coast.

Together, Rugby Canada and Provincial Rugby Unions identified five core pillars of action:

• Evolve the Athlete Development Pathway to support all ages and stages
• Introduce and grow non-contact rugby to increase access and retention
• Focus on youth development to build a stronger base for the sport
• Invest in women and girls to accelerate equity and opportunity
• Build capacity within clubs and provincial unions to sustain progress

Strategic initiatives including data and communication strategies and Rugby Canada Development Officer funding will support this plan to strive to ensure that every club and community has access to what they need for rugby to thrive, and for growth to be possible at every level, from TRY, to PLAY, to STAY. Work has already begun in the Training & Education department to further support the plan, through enhanced coach and match official development, support for our Education Workforce, and building digital resources such as “The Breakdown” – Rugby Canada’s new Learning Management System.

The plan also reinforces Rugby Canada’s alignment with World Rugby priorities, including the global focus on growing the women’s game and advancing inclusive, accessible development pathways worldwide.

The launch of the National Growth Plan directly delivers on Priority 3.1.3 of Rugby Canada’s 2024 and Beyond Strategic Plan: fostering a unified national and provincial rugby system. The success of rugby in Canada depends on deep, intentional cooperation between Rugby Canada and Provincial Union partners.

Collectively, we look forward to working alongside all rugby leaders, clubs, and communities to bring this vision to life.

“The launch of the National Growth Plan is an important milestone for rugby in Canada. For us in British Columbia, it reinforces the strength of working together nationally, provincially, and at the community level to grow the game in sustainable ways.” Matthew Carter, BC Rugby CEO

“This plan represents the power of partnership. It’s the result of thoughtful collaboration between Rugby Canada and every Provincial Union, and it sets a new standard for how we grow together. A unified approach is not only strategic, it’s essential to delivering sustainable, community-driven impact across the country.”  Ashley Lewis,  Managing Director – NSO Services, Rugby Canada

“The National Growth Plan gives us a shared, actionable roadmap to welcome more players, coaches, officials and communities into rugby. Whether it’s strengthening youth pathways, growing the women’s game, or expanding non-contact options, we’re focused on supporting clubs and provinces with the tools they need to thrive from the grassroots up.” Jamie Levchuk, Managing Director – Game Development, Rugby Canada