After going undefeated all the way to the semifinal in the 2011 season, it was a quiet resolve by the Women to take it all the way this season. It started with a bang over Meralomas, winning 70-13 and ended at Klahanie Park with the Trophy. Along the way, games were played and won with a steely determination that displayed support and encouragement of each other while humbling the opposition.
Encouraging words spoken by a Team mate, in the middle of an opposition onslaught would turn the tide in our favour enroute to another victory.
The competition was always tough with teams like Meralomas, Velox, United, Capilanos battling for points throughout the season. In the end, it was the ladies from Burnaby Lake that drank from the Cup.
The forwards, led by Captain Katie Larson, dominated the play throughout the season, ably supported by Corinne Jacobsen, Kim Donaldson,Brenna Glover and converted scrum half Lauren Tagg. The loose trio of Laura Harmse, Deb Capps and young Kevenza Murphy were devastating on the Field. Laura, a founding member of the Ladies program, led by example throughout the season. With the two young guns following her around, it was always a guarantee that no member of the opposition will be given a day off.
The Backs, led by 'retired' Maria Gallo, was always a threat whenever they get the ball. From their first touch on February 5th, a pass from a ruck by Lauren Tagg to Maria, against Meraloma, to the final play of the season - an itercept by Melissa Miyazaki for the winner against Velox on May 7th, there was never any doubt that these group of ladies were going to get it done when needed.
The rallying cry during the play off said it all for this Team. "WE KNOW WHO WE ARE" a term coined by Head Coach Walt Brandl,underscored the fact that it really did not matter who the opposition was, the game simply had to be played and it had to be won. It also showed confidence without being arrogant, great personal efforts while playing as a Team and celebrating achievements with humility.
A great season has been celebrated, now we look forward to the next one. Some of the girls will take the Summer off, some will fulfill their various Provincial and National obligations and some will be playing 7's rugby with the BLRC Lighthouse 7's Team. We will meet again in the Fall to start another journey.
