In a season of little steps, the Banff girls rugby team took a giant leap forward with its first multi-try game in league play on Saturday (July 19) at the Banff Rec Grounds.
Despite losing 56-19 to the Calgary Irish, Lianne Pettigrew powered in her first try of the season in what was the first time the home team has scored in Banff in four years.
“It was awesome to get some points on the board,” Pettigrew said. “We are finally getting a hold of the game, learning how to pass it out. Trys are scored by having support, and the girls saw how supporting the play made an impact … It’s one of the best games we’ve had.”
Focusing on fundamentals, Banff made slow gains throughout the second half, slowing down the Irish. Unfortunately, they lost four players to injury and had to borrow several Irish players. Those who did play showed incredible intestinal fortitude on the field, playing through pain and supporting one another by any means necessary. It even saw two of the Banff players share a mouthguard – a practice usually frowned upon.
“The girls definitely pulled through. Our lock had two fingers gushing blood. We’re tough as nails,” Pettigrew said. “A few girls may miss the next game (Saturday in Calgary against the Rams), but they all have minor injuries.”
Since many Banff players have limited experience, Pettigrew said the focus is small victories and learning experiences, with hopes of building a strong program in the future. Each game, she’s seeing more improvement.
“In Tim Hortons hockey, you see the little kids clump up. It’s the same as rugby. Now we’re learning where to be so we can pass off. It’s learning game sense,” Pettigrew said.
The rest of the league loves to play in Banff and have agreed they’ll be patient as the program is nurtured, lending players when they can. Three years ago, the women’s program folded due to lack of interest.
“We’re not aiming to win, but take small steps. It’s good at this point to have a team. Everything else is icing,” Pettigrew said.
