Azure crocuses are blooming, endangered bears are emerging and the Banff Rugby Union girls are smashing mouths – sure signs of spring in the Bow Valley.
The girls’ rugby squad dropped their first match of the year, losing 15-7 to the Calgary Saints in regular season play on April 30 at the Calgary Rugby Union Field. Katie Young scored Banff’s lone try with Laura Bowie converting on the kick.
“I was super impressed with how we played, even though we lost. We have so much potential,” Young said.
The Banff squad held the territorial advantages through much of the match, as their offence kept the pressure on the Saints’ defence. Young, a seven-year veteran who was named team captain, vowed revenge.
“The next time we meet them, the result will be different,” she said.
Despite fielding seven rookies, Banff stifled the Saints with competent defence. Veteran Nicole Hardill kept the team calm and gave good direction in the scrum.
“I don’t think we missed a tackle all game,” Young said. “The defence was amazing and our offensive pressure was great. For a lot of girls, that was their first time on the field. They were confused about positioning on the big field, but they got used to it.
Banff’s scoring play came on a three-on-two created by deft ball movement, allowing Young to punch through.
“We had some good pressure and that left a hole in their defence,” Young said.
That gave Banff a 7-5 lead, however, the Saints came back with two tries in the second quarter on broken plays to secure the win.
New players, such as inside centre Linda Campbell and hooker Rose Ireland, will need to play a big role with the club if they are to find success. Several players have never played organized rugby before, but several new English and Aussie players are quite familiar with the game.
“Last year we struggled with commitment from players. This year is exciting because we have so much enthusiasm,” Young said.
Roster turnover is nothing new for the Banff rugby squad.
“For us, it’s a new team every year. The other teams have more stability while we’re more scattered,” Young said.
The team plans to play an offensive pressure game this season, Young said.
“Offensive pressure gives the girls inspiration. It’s a good feeling to be pushing and not back on defence the whole game,” Young said.
Banff plays the Calgary Saracens this weekend and have their home opener at the Banff Rec Grounds on May 28.
