From Rugby Canada

Rugby Canada announced on Wednesday plans for the Canada West Selects to play a series of matches over the summer against domestic and international opponents, starting with a clash against the American Raptors on Saturday, May 14 at Starlight Stadium in Langford, BC.

Led by Rugby Canada Academy Head Coach Phil Mack and a coaching staff comprised of domestic coaches from Vancouver and Vancouver Island, the Canada West Selects will feature a group of more than 50 talented under-25s from key regions.

Following their opening match against the Raptors, Mack will lead the West Selects in a three-team competition which will also feature the Atlantic Selects and the Toronto Arrows Academy. The series will take place in Halifax, NS from May 27 to June 4.

“We are extremely excited about our plans for the summer and truly believe this is a reward for those players who have proven their abilities over the last eight months,” Mack said. “Fans can expect to see a talented group playing a thrilling brand of rugby. The opening match against the American Raptors will be a tough test and an opportunity for the group to show its strengths in preparation for a busy few months of competition.”

An emerging Rugby club based in Glendale, Colorado, the American Raptors are comprised of crossover athletes who have competed at the highest level of their respective sports, including the likes of football, basketball, baseball, wrestling, soccer and track and field.

“The American Raptors are thrilled to build this relationship with Rugby Canada and are looking forward to the match with Canada West,” commented Mark Bullock, Director of Rugby, American Raptors. “We know it will be a great competition between our teams, and a good experience for our players. As a former player for the Seattle RFC we always had spirited matches with our Northern neighbors and look forward to continuing that tradition.”

The West Selects and the Raptors will kick off at 12:30 p.m. on Saturday, May 14 at Starlight Stadium, the home of Rugby Canada.