High Horse

The opinions expressed below are those of the writer and do not represent the views of the Brandon Barbarians Rugby Club or those of any other individual or organization.

Some idle thoughts about the U-18 Manitoba Boys team and the National Championships from a not-very-impartial point of view.

I have long admired the coaching skills of Sandy Donald and Brian Yon. I have seen them in action with their high school rugby teams in Western Manitoba. They have an uncanny ability to bring out the best in their athletes and their performance as coaches last week was true to form. They took an assortment of players with varying talents and abilities, worked with them, taught them, challenged them and made those of us at the U-18 Manitoba games proud, very proud, of our Manitoba team.

I had the opportunity to hear the U-18 players each make humble, but solemn, promises to themselves and to the team to do their best. I was, as a Manitoban, very pleased to see those same players live up to their commitment. They did, indeed, play their best. To those who might question this based on the win-loss record, I say, “You should have been there.” I was there and saw a bunch of young guys making a great effort.

Over the past few seasons, I have had the pleasure to see several players from Western Manitoba mature and develop into fine young men who also happen to play rugby very well. Now that they and several others will be too old to play for the U-18s next year, I respectfully ask them to continue to be involved with the game wherever their fortunes may take them. Good rugby players are hard to find.

Congratulations and big thank yous are extended to the players’ parents. Chances are pretty good that you didn’t quite know what to expect when your son said he wanted to play rugby. Baseball and hockey, you were familiar with. Rugby? What’s that? Now you know. Your support is gratefully acknowledged. Please continue to spread the word about this wonderful game. And the barbeque was fabulous.

Maple Grove has never looked better. The five pitches were in superb condition. Christian Taylor, President of Rugby Manitoba, and the local committee headed by Glenys Mackenzie did a fine job in the organization and the presentation of the Festival. Everything, to this observer at any rate, was smooth and professional, and, most importantly, fun and exciting

The only disappointing aspect of last week’s Rugby Nationals was general indifference by the local rugby community. Over 700 young athletes played to mostly empty stands during the week. The big games between Ontario and British Columbia were the exception as their many, many fans cheered on their teams. More Manitoba rugby fans in attendance would have made a big difference. We’ll have to work on that.

I didn’t quite know what to expect when I volunteered my services to Sandy and Brian. I am still identifying and tabulating all the positives I got out of my experience. It was extremely rewarding. Thank you for allowing me to participate.