Hello,
It's been a while....
Well, another 7s season begins this weekend in the BC Rugby Summer 7s Series. Vancouver 7s kicks off the 2014 Summer Series at Connaught Park with eight each Elite and Social Men Division and six Elite Women's Teams. Pretty good lineup considering it is the first tournament of the season.
Burnaby Lake Lighthouse 7s Elite Men and Women will be trying to defend their Title again this year, it will be both teams' fourth defense of the titles since winning them in 2010. No teams have been able to dethrone Burnaby Lake since the BC Rugby series started in 2010, so they know that they have a HUGE Bullseye mark on their forehead. But we're up for the challenge. BC Rugby Union is fielding a representative team, this could be interesting come the end of the day. This team is being led by former Canada 7s captain Maria Gallo, a former Burnaby Lake player who now coaches the UBC Women's Program. It will be a game to look forward to should Burnaby Lake and BC Rugby make the playoffs
Saturday morning can't come soon enough!
Stay tuned for the result
KAUKAUWA!!!
Friday, June 20, 2014
Wednesday, December 21, 2011
Rugby Reflections
Merry Christmas!!
As we approach the Christian Anniversary of the birth of Jesus Christ, I'd like to reflect on Rugby for a moment - Burnaby Lake Women's Rugby...
This Fall session of the Vancouver Rugby Union season, started, for the Premier at least, very much like the Spring Session of last season - it started with a win!
They have been at it since the first game of the Fall season in 2010. It is an impressive record to hold indeed.
With all the 'retirements, injuries, marriages and babies that came along to disrupt the continuity of the progress, Coach Walt Brandl 'borrowed' players from the Division 2 Team and molded them into Premier Players. Without skipping a beat, these players showed they are worthy of the call up and proved it by winning all their games leading up to the Finals.
Along the way they put up some very impressive numbers in defeating leading Lower Mainland Clubs like United, Meralomas, Capilanos and Bayside.
BLRC Premier Women were crowned the Vancouver Rugby Union Champs when they hosted the 'AnnaSchnell Cup' on a wet December Day beating Bayside with the lowest of scores and margin of the season.
We look forward to the Spring and hopefully we will get back some of the injured, the married and the retired to help boost the Team during the 'Spring' Season
Merry Christmas all!!
As we approach the Christian Anniversary of the birth of Jesus Christ, I'd like to reflect on Rugby for a moment - Burnaby Lake Women's Rugby...
This Fall session of the Vancouver Rugby Union season, started, for the Premier at least, very much like the Spring Session of last season - it started with a win!
They have been at it since the first game of the Fall season in 2010. It is an impressive record to hold indeed.
With all the 'retirements, injuries, marriages and babies that came along to disrupt the continuity of the progress, Coach Walt Brandl 'borrowed' players from the Division 2 Team and molded them into Premier Players. Without skipping a beat, these players showed they are worthy of the call up and proved it by winning all their games leading up to the Finals.
Along the way they put up some very impressive numbers in defeating leading Lower Mainland Clubs like United, Meralomas, Capilanos and Bayside.
BLRC Premier Women were crowned the Vancouver Rugby Union Champs when they hosted the 'AnnaSchnell Cup' on a wet December Day beating Bayside with the lowest of scores and margin of the season.
We look forward to the Spring and hopefully we will get back some of the injured, the married and the retired to help boost the Team during the 'Spring' Season
Merry Christmas all!!
Saturday, May 21, 2011
Burnaby Lake Women wins BC Championship
The Burnaby Lake Rugby club Women's Premier Team ended the 2011 Rugby Season with an incredible 10 -0 run culminating in the lifting of the coveted Harris Trophy, beating Velox in the Finals 17 - 13.
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.
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.
Friday, February 18, 2011
Burnaby Lake Women's Coaches Name Teams for the Weekend
The BLRC Women's Coaches have named two very competitive Teams to go to battle at different ends of the Lower Mainland this weekend.
Ian Trevor's Division 2 Team goes East to take on John Morgan's Ridge Meadows at Thomas Haney High School grounds and Walter Brandl takes the Premier Division west to battle defending Champions Capilanos
The Coaches were quite pleased with not only the turnout on Thursday night, but also the commitment level at practice. Practice had to be moved to the gravel field, something we have not done in a while, due to the snow that blanketed Burnaby on Thursday afternoon.
But the ladies, led by Katie Larson for the Prems and returnee Michelle Young for Div 2, got right into it!!! Retired stand-off Anna Schnell showed up to run the backs and they were sizzling on a cold and wet evening. Apparently all she needed to show up was a small cup of Hot Chocolate. We'll make sure both Captains come to practice with Hot Chocolate for her!!!
The line up for Div 2 will be without the loosies. But it will be a good one still
Malak Dalati anchors the loose side and the Fedewa comes in on the tight side. Krystal Steel, who will play anywhere, as long as she is on the Field, is in the middle of the Front Row this weekend. I am already feeling sorry for the opposition. Newcomers Shelby Mattin and Sandy Smith will complete the scrum behind them.
The backs are led at scrum half by a deceptively fast Anh Tran and she will be passing the ball to a 'just as fast' if not faster Santos.......ANGEL Santos. MJ Galbraith and Captain Michelle Young will be looking to 'crash' through the middle but will be passing to Cst. Suelyn Wirth for some Law enforcement on the left wing or fast Abby Tacal for some speedy Gonzales type runs on the right. This backline is Fast and Furious!!!.....awesome. At Fullback is the ever reliable Devon Luca who reads the game better than she reads 'The Communist Manifesto'
The Prems - well they are the Prems....nuff said!!
Front Row: Corinne Jacobsen Lauren Tagg Kim Donaldson, not necessarily in that order but lethal nonetheless. They have all represented our fair Country. Kim and Corinne went to England for the World Cup, Lauren went to the Bahamas and dipped in the Ocean for the first time......while also playing Rugby. Some girls have all the Luck.
Brenna Glover and captain Katie Larson will complete and manage the Engine Room. Laura Harmse, who warms up before every warm up, will lead an aggresive and furious pack of loosies and will be backed up by hungry ball hunters Kevenza Murphy and Debb Capps. Did I mention that they are a furious and hungry pack of hunters...... of the Rugby ball? Sugawara is back, .....also nuff said. Dr. Gallo is at 10, retirement is way behind her now. Kary Steele is on the inside and Melissa Miyazaki is on the outside. Don't get these three angry - they can kill you by just staring at you!!
The wings are patrolled by Jean Lehtinen on the left and Erin 'vegasvegasvegas' Jang on the right. Do not be fooled by their smile, they will run past you while you're thinking of an appopriate response.
Lindsay Bernrot will be relied on to stop anything that survived Kary's tackle. She completes the line up at Fullback
These guys killed Meralomas 70 - 13 two weeks ago. They are awesome. Drop everything and come and watch them!!!
Ian Trevor's Division 2 Team goes East to take on John Morgan's Ridge Meadows at Thomas Haney High School grounds and Walter Brandl takes the Premier Division west to battle defending Champions Capilanos
The Coaches were quite pleased with not only the turnout on Thursday night, but also the commitment level at practice. Practice had to be moved to the gravel field, something we have not done in a while, due to the snow that blanketed Burnaby on Thursday afternoon.
But the ladies, led by Katie Larson for the Prems and returnee Michelle Young for Div 2, got right into it!!! Retired stand-off Anna Schnell showed up to run the backs and they were sizzling on a cold and wet evening. Apparently all she needed to show up was a small cup of Hot Chocolate. We'll make sure both Captains come to practice with Hot Chocolate for her!!!
The line up for Div 2 will be without the loosies. But it will be a good one still
Malak Dalati anchors the loose side and the Fedewa comes in on the tight side. Krystal Steel, who will play anywhere, as long as she is on the Field, is in the middle of the Front Row this weekend. I am already feeling sorry for the opposition. Newcomers Shelby Mattin and Sandy Smith will complete the scrum behind them.
The backs are led at scrum half by a deceptively fast Anh Tran and she will be passing the ball to a 'just as fast' if not faster Santos.......ANGEL Santos. MJ Galbraith and Captain Michelle Young will be looking to 'crash' through the middle but will be passing to Cst. Suelyn Wirth for some Law enforcement on the left wing or fast Abby Tacal for some speedy Gonzales type runs on the right. This backline is Fast and Furious!!!.....awesome. At Fullback is the ever reliable Devon Luca who reads the game better than she reads 'The Communist Manifesto'
The Prems - well they are the Prems....nuff said!!
Front Row: Corinne Jacobsen Lauren Tagg Kim Donaldson, not necessarily in that order but lethal nonetheless. They have all represented our fair Country. Kim and Corinne went to England for the World Cup, Lauren went to the Bahamas and dipped in the Ocean for the first time......while also playing Rugby. Some girls have all the Luck.
Brenna Glover and captain Katie Larson will complete and manage the Engine Room. Laura Harmse, who warms up before every warm up, will lead an aggresive and furious pack of loosies and will be backed up by hungry ball hunters Kevenza Murphy and Debb Capps. Did I mention that they are a furious and hungry pack of hunters...... of the Rugby ball? Sugawara is back, .....also nuff said. Dr. Gallo is at 10, retirement is way behind her now. Kary Steele is on the inside and Melissa Miyazaki is on the outside. Don't get these three angry - they can kill you by just staring at you!!
The wings are patrolled by Jean Lehtinen on the left and Erin 'vegasvegasvegas' Jang on the right. Do not be fooled by their smile, they will run past you while you're thinking of an appopriate response.
Lindsay Bernrot will be relied on to stop anything that survived Kary's tackle. She completes the line up at Fullback
These guys killed Meralomas 70 - 13 two weeks ago. They are awesome. Drop everything and come and watch them!!!
Monday, January 24, 2011
2011 Spring Season is Upon us
The BC Rugby Union 2011 Spring Season starts this weekend, January 29th, with all three Men's Team visiting Meralomas for the two Clubs' Annual Palmer Cup.
Burnaby Lake Men did very very well in the first half in all three divisions, but will be going into the Spring side of things without their inpirational Head Coach Kris De Scossa, who has accepted the Head Coaching job with the Welsh National Women's Program. We wish him the very best in his new endeavour. But he has left behind a group of very motivated and inspired boys to carry the flag in his absence.
Practice has been going really well, even while some are still recovering from the Holidays Hangover and have forgotten the way to the practice field.
The Women are also doing well at practice led by the youthful Head Coach Walt Brandl and new mom Katie Larson. They will visit Connaught Park on February 5th and will take two Teams down to pit their skills against Brittany Waters and her girls. The two Premier sides have had some good games lately and the upcoming encounter should be another one to mark on the Calendar as a 'not to miss' one. They will then meet again on March 26th to settle any unfinished business before the season is over.
Let the fun begin!!!
Burnaby Lake Men did very very well in the first half in all three divisions, but will be going into the Spring side of things without their inpirational Head Coach Kris De Scossa, who has accepted the Head Coaching job with the Welsh National Women's Program. We wish him the very best in his new endeavour. But he has left behind a group of very motivated and inspired boys to carry the flag in his absence.
Practice has been going really well, even while some are still recovering from the Holidays Hangover and have forgotten the way to the practice field.
The Women are also doing well at practice led by the youthful Head Coach Walt Brandl and new mom Katie Larson. They will visit Connaught Park on February 5th and will take two Teams down to pit their skills against Brittany Waters and her girls. The two Premier sides have had some good games lately and the upcoming encounter should be another one to mark on the Calendar as a 'not to miss' one. They will then meet again on March 26th to settle any unfinished business before the season is over.
Let the fun begin!!!
Friday, July 16, 2010
The Battle of the Hill Looms
On the eve of the Big Battle to win the Hill at Burnaby Mountain, the Lighthouse Teams are quietly confident that they will take the Highland 7's
Practice has been going well, though at times a bit frustrating as we get closer to the big climb up Burnaby Mountain. Frustrating mainly because we want to do well and maybe we're overdoing it.
But all will be forgiven when the Hill is conquered and the Trophy comes down to the Shores of Burnaby Lake.
Three teams will be vying for the different honors: Elite Men, Elite Women & Social Men, all itching to prove and show off what the Coaching Staff have been coaching them. As in all tournaments, changes due to injuries or personal commitments are inevitable. On the Elite Men's side, injuries to Scott Plummer and Doug Breadon being away opens the door for Alex Roberts and Brandon Fairs to get back in. Also joining them is Steve Battie who played really well at the Vancouver 7's. The usual suspects are there still, and it should be a good battle on the Highland.
The Women's Division will also see some new faces as a few Canada Reps will try to prove that they can also do 7's. Julia Sugawara, Dr. Maria Gallo and Anna Schnell joins the team this weekend. It should be interesting as the two finalists fromn the CAN AM 7's want to meet again to settle the score in the Finals. But the Lighthouse Women's Captain, Melissa Miyazaki has other plans for them. Velox is also there to change some plans as well as hosts SFU.
But Captain Mel is saying to her Platoon, "Let's paint that Hill Blue & White"
KAUKAUWA!!!
Practice has been going well, though at times a bit frustrating as we get closer to the big climb up Burnaby Mountain. Frustrating mainly because we want to do well and maybe we're overdoing it.
But all will be forgiven when the Hill is conquered and the Trophy comes down to the Shores of Burnaby Lake.
Three teams will be vying for the different honors: Elite Men, Elite Women & Social Men, all itching to prove and show off what the Coaching Staff have been coaching them. As in all tournaments, changes due to injuries or personal commitments are inevitable. On the Elite Men's side, injuries to Scott Plummer and Doug Breadon being away opens the door for Alex Roberts and Brandon Fairs to get back in. Also joining them is Steve Battie who played really well at the Vancouver 7's. The usual suspects are there still, and it should be a good battle on the Highland.
The Women's Division will also see some new faces as a few Canada Reps will try to prove that they can also do 7's. Julia Sugawara, Dr. Maria Gallo and Anna Schnell joins the team this weekend. It should be interesting as the two finalists fromn the CAN AM 7's want to meet again to settle the score in the Finals. But the Lighthouse Women's Captain, Melissa Miyazaki has other plans for them. Velox is also there to change some plans as well as hosts SFU.
But Captain Mel is saying to her Platoon, "Let's paint that Hill Blue & White"
KAUKAUWA!!!
Friday, June 25, 2010
BLRC LIGHTHOUSE 7's Prepares for Second Leg of Series
The Burnaby Lake Lighthouse 7's Program enters the weekend with a series of games at the Vancouver 7's tournament.
Kicking this weekend of 7's Rugby off are the BLRC Lighthouse U16 boys. They are playing at the Vancouver seven a side tournament. Their game kicks off Friday afternoon at 4pm at the Brockton Oval in Stanley Park.
Coach Sanaila Dawai has been running the Boys hard at Burnaby Lake twice a week and the combination is coming along well. It should be an exciting tournament for everyone as we start to see the preparation for the 2016 Olympics take root with these kids. They will be in their prime and be experienced and '7's smart' by the time the Olympics rolls around.
This should be an afternoon not to be missed as we see our upcoming 7's players strut their stuff.
Saturday morning will see the seniors at the same venue. Defending Champions BLRC Lighthouse men's, led by captain Bruce Rauqe, will once again try to fend off challengers like Valley High, a Team stacked with national 7's Reps. They lost to this team at the Buccaneers 7's two weeks ago and will be looking for some redemption.
The Youngbucks Team tried so hard last year to win at least one tournament against BLRC Lighthouse, but to no avail. They too are in this tournament and will be looking for their own redemption. Other Teams to watch will be the South Sea Wanderers, Bayside Amabassadors, Meralomas, Abbotsford and of course hosts Vancouver Rowing Club. If you're a fan of Rugby's abbreviated code, you should be salivating by now!!!
The Women's draw looked very promising earlier on but it has taken a left turn as two teams have pulled out. BLRC Lighthouse Women is not worried about this at all as they have been preparing well for this one too. Having collected 21 points from the James Bay tournament, Mel Miyazaki and her crew look forward to adding more by the end of the day, to put some distance between them and Velox, who are sitting at 17 points.
BLRC's second Men's Team sees their first tournament this weekend, with a game on Saturday and the rest on Sunday. It should be worth the price of the ticket alone to come and watch Angus Fisher, Brandon Fairs and the ever-exciting Allan Tang light up the field with their blazing speed!!!
Come........it's time to cheer on the BLRC Lighthouse Teams at Brockton this weekend!!!
KAUKAUWA
Kicking this weekend of 7's Rugby off are the BLRC Lighthouse U16 boys. They are playing at the Vancouver seven a side tournament. Their game kicks off Friday afternoon at 4pm at the Brockton Oval in Stanley Park.
Coach Sanaila Dawai has been running the Boys hard at Burnaby Lake twice a week and the combination is coming along well. It should be an exciting tournament for everyone as we start to see the preparation for the 2016 Olympics take root with these kids. They will be in their prime and be experienced and '7's smart' by the time the Olympics rolls around.
This should be an afternoon not to be missed as we see our upcoming 7's players strut their stuff.
Saturday morning will see the seniors at the same venue. Defending Champions BLRC Lighthouse men's, led by captain Bruce Rauqe, will once again try to fend off challengers like Valley High, a Team stacked with national 7's Reps. They lost to this team at the Buccaneers 7's two weeks ago and will be looking for some redemption.
The Youngbucks Team tried so hard last year to win at least one tournament against BLRC Lighthouse, but to no avail. They too are in this tournament and will be looking for their own redemption. Other Teams to watch will be the South Sea Wanderers, Bayside Amabassadors, Meralomas, Abbotsford and of course hosts Vancouver Rowing Club. If you're a fan of Rugby's abbreviated code, you should be salivating by now!!!
The Women's draw looked very promising earlier on but it has taken a left turn as two teams have pulled out. BLRC Lighthouse Women is not worried about this at all as they have been preparing well for this one too. Having collected 21 points from the James Bay tournament, Mel Miyazaki and her crew look forward to adding more by the end of the day, to put some distance between them and Velox, who are sitting at 17 points.
BLRC's second Men's Team sees their first tournament this weekend, with a game on Saturday and the rest on Sunday. It should be worth the price of the ticket alone to come and watch Angus Fisher, Brandon Fairs and the ever-exciting Allan Tang light up the field with their blazing speed!!!
Come........it's time to cheer on the BLRC Lighthouse Teams at Brockton this weekend!!!
KAUKAUWA
Sunday, June 13, 2010
BLRC Lighthouse 7's With Mixed Result on the Weekend
The BLRC Lighthouse Women's 7's wins first Summer Tournament while Men bows out in the Finals
The Ladies were crowned Champions by President of James Bay 7's Tom Woods and presented with $1000 worth of Jerseys, a plaque and will have their Team name engraved on the Huge trophy donated by Morgan Williams the National Men's Caoch of the Rugby Canada 7's program.
The men's Team bowed out in the Finals to a Star-studded Team Valli High, a team filled with National Team members and carded Canadian players on the verge of joining the National Team.
The efforts put in by both the men and the women's teams clearly sends a message to the Clubs and Teams participating in this year's BC sanctioned 7's series that Burnaby Lake Rugby Club is serious about the 7's program at the Lake.
Before the women played their first game of the day, Coach Bruce Rauqe and Assistan Roko Kapaiwai inisisted that they play hard, fair and have lots of fun during the tournament. Obviously, due to the lack of 7's experience and performance at practice the previous two weeks, coaches and Manager Mike Devlin just wanted the ladies to enjoy the experience and to witness and soak in the competitive environment of the 7's circuit.
But after the first game against Cowichan, it was evident that the ladies were not just here to learn the game, they were here to win it.
Led by Captain Melissa Miyazaki, who scored a tonne of tries in the tournament, the ladies sent a very clear message to the oppositions that they were serious about this thing. They piled on points in every game. However, Velox showed them how it is supposed to be done in the last game of Pool Play, and when the final whistle was blown at 4.23pm, they were at the short end of the stick with their first loss. Spirits were quickly lifted when they were informed, they are in the Finals and will be playing against Velox again.
Tough decisions had to be made by Coaches and Manager on the best personnel to put on the field to go against a Team obviously stacked with Women with good 7's experience.
The Finals was won in a tough battle with BLRC Lighthouse crowned champion at the end of it, but the process of getting was a thing of beauty. Nerves of steel were displayed in the last 5 minutes of the game and it was an exhiralating feeling to feel, especially when only in the previous two weeks, the first practice was an excercise in total chaos and confusion!!
We can all exhale now and not worry anymore.......the girls are good to go the rest of the Summer with high expectations.
The boys also had their good share of wins and losses - two of them to the same team, the star-studded Valli High, led by National 7's Rep Phil Mack who led his Team with confidence and by example. Mack's Team beat our Men's Lighthouse team convincingly in Pool Play, but were lucky that time was on their side in the Finals winning the Finals 31-26.
Captain Bruce Rauqe led by example, and was targetted by all the opposing teams during the day. He clearly showed that even at 37 years old, he still got it. In the end, it was not enough as Valli High took the Trophy home. Now it is time to regroup as both the Men and Women's program attempt to take the Oval at Stanley Park June 26th in the 2nd leg of the series - the Vancouver 7's
The Ladies were crowned Champions by President of James Bay 7's Tom Woods and presented with $1000 worth of Jerseys, a plaque and will have their Team name engraved on the Huge trophy donated by Morgan Williams the National Men's Caoch of the Rugby Canada 7's program.
The men's Team bowed out in the Finals to a Star-studded Team Valli High, a team filled with National Team members and carded Canadian players on the verge of joining the National Team.
The efforts put in by both the men and the women's teams clearly sends a message to the Clubs and Teams participating in this year's BC sanctioned 7's series that Burnaby Lake Rugby Club is serious about the 7's program at the Lake.
Before the women played their first game of the day, Coach Bruce Rauqe and Assistan Roko Kapaiwai inisisted that they play hard, fair and have lots of fun during the tournament. Obviously, due to the lack of 7's experience and performance at practice the previous two weeks, coaches and Manager Mike Devlin just wanted the ladies to enjoy the experience and to witness and soak in the competitive environment of the 7's circuit.
But after the first game against Cowichan, it was evident that the ladies were not just here to learn the game, they were here to win it.
Led by Captain Melissa Miyazaki, who scored a tonne of tries in the tournament, the ladies sent a very clear message to the oppositions that they were serious about this thing. They piled on points in every game. However, Velox showed them how it is supposed to be done in the last game of Pool Play, and when the final whistle was blown at 4.23pm, they were at the short end of the stick with their first loss. Spirits were quickly lifted when they were informed, they are in the Finals and will be playing against Velox again.
Tough decisions had to be made by Coaches and Manager on the best personnel to put on the field to go against a Team obviously stacked with Women with good 7's experience.
The Finals was won in a tough battle with BLRC Lighthouse crowned champion at the end of it, but the process of getting was a thing of beauty. Nerves of steel were displayed in the last 5 minutes of the game and it was an exhiralating feeling to feel, especially when only in the previous two weeks, the first practice was an excercise in total chaos and confusion!!
We can all exhale now and not worry anymore.......the girls are good to go the rest of the Summer with high expectations.
The boys also had their good share of wins and losses - two of them to the same team, the star-studded Valli High, led by National 7's Rep Phil Mack who led his Team with confidence and by example. Mack's Team beat our Men's Lighthouse team convincingly in Pool Play, but were lucky that time was on their side in the Finals winning the Finals 31-26.
Captain Bruce Rauqe led by example, and was targetted by all the opposing teams during the day. He clearly showed that even at 37 years old, he still got it. In the end, it was not enough as Valli High took the Trophy home. Now it is time to regroup as both the Men and Women's program attempt to take the Oval at Stanley Park June 26th in the 2nd leg of the series - the Vancouver 7's
Thursday, June 10, 2010
2010 BC Summer 7's Season Starts at James Bay
The 2010 BC Summer 7's season starts June 12th on the Island as James Bay kicks off what promises to be an exciting Summer of 7's Rugby in BC.
With the Sport now included in the 2016 Olympics in Rio De Janeiro,it is starting to take on a life of its own as Clubs, Provinces and Country develop programs for kids to learn the finer details of 7's Rugby. BC Rugby is no different as some Clubs participating in the Summer Series are featuring Youth 7's.
At the shores of Burnaby Lake, preparation has been going well as we try to get our share of wins. We are also getting really serious about our Women's 7's program and will be entering all the tournaments this year. Training has been fun not only to run, but more importantly, to watch. It had started with total confusion, as very few girls had played organised 7's before, but is slowly getting there. Girls are starting to recognise the difference between 15's rugby and 7's rugby and the mentality is starting to switch. We're introducing a few plays we think should help in getting some momentum as we enter the first tournament at James Bay. We hope to do well and learn from this experience.
They are definitely in the right place as they are learning from some of the best players in the abbreviated code. They practice with the BLRC Lighthouse Elite Men's Team, led by Head Coach Lesi Korobasaga and assisted by Dual 7's International Bruce Rauqe. Helping as well is Joe Nakaira Dolesau, who has decided to take a stab at wearing the Canadian National Colors instead of the Fiji jersey. Joe had been in the Fiji 7's training squad this year, but has decided to come up to Canada and share his talent and knowledge with us at the Lake. He is also hoping to do the same with Canada 7's should they need his service. He is here for good.
To keep our minds refreshed, the Teams went Bowling Monday night, just to get everyone to get to know each other better and to share some laughs as we get ready for the first tourney.
Bruce Rauqe and Melissa Miyazaki have been named Captains of the two teams playing this weekend and the 2nd Men's Team will be playing in the next tournament, which will be at Brockton Oval June 26th........more to come on that later. First we take the Island, then we take the Oval!!!
KAUKAUWA
With the Sport now included in the 2016 Olympics in Rio De Janeiro,it is starting to take on a life of its own as Clubs, Provinces and Country develop programs for kids to learn the finer details of 7's Rugby. BC Rugby is no different as some Clubs participating in the Summer Series are featuring Youth 7's.
At the shores of Burnaby Lake, preparation has been going well as we try to get our share of wins. We are also getting really serious about our Women's 7's program and will be entering all the tournaments this year. Training has been fun not only to run, but more importantly, to watch. It had started with total confusion, as very few girls had played organised 7's before, but is slowly getting there. Girls are starting to recognise the difference between 15's rugby and 7's rugby and the mentality is starting to switch. We're introducing a few plays we think should help in getting some momentum as we enter the first tournament at James Bay. We hope to do well and learn from this experience.
They are definitely in the right place as they are learning from some of the best players in the abbreviated code. They practice with the BLRC Lighthouse Elite Men's Team, led by Head Coach Lesi Korobasaga and assisted by Dual 7's International Bruce Rauqe. Helping as well is Joe Nakaira Dolesau, who has decided to take a stab at wearing the Canadian National Colors instead of the Fiji jersey. Joe had been in the Fiji 7's training squad this year, but has decided to come up to Canada and share his talent and knowledge with us at the Lake. He is also hoping to do the same with Canada 7's should they need his service. He is here for good.
To keep our minds refreshed, the Teams went Bowling Monday night, just to get everyone to get to know each other better and to share some laughs as we get ready for the first tourney.
Bruce Rauqe and Melissa Miyazaki have been named Captains of the two teams playing this weekend and the 2nd Men's Team will be playing in the next tournament, which will be at Brockton Oval June 26th........more to come on that later. First we take the Island, then we take the Oval!!!
KAUKAUWA
Saturday, May 15, 2010
2010 BC Summer 7's Series about to Start
As we enter the Final weekend of the BC Rugby Union 2009 - 2010 Rugby season, we are also approaching the begining of the 2010 BC Summer 7's Series.
Teams are aready gearing up for what is looking to be a very busy and competitive 7's season.
The first BC sanctioned tournament is the James Bay one on June 12th and the last tournament will be in Cowichan on the weekend of Sept 4 - 5th. Inside these two Bookends will be Vancouver 7's at Brockton Oval,CAN AM 7's, SFU Highland,the International 7's in Abbotsford,Lighthouse 7's at Burnaby Lake,Capilano, Bayside7's to name a few. There are Social 7's events as well.
This year promises to be very competitive, as all tournament hosts try to attract good teams. Those that are serious about their 7's will want to participate in these tournaments. The format is different this year as well, as BC Rugby has decided to awards points, much like the irb World 7's series.
The other major attraction this year is the inclusion of the Women's series. Any tournament that wants to be counted as a BC 7's stop, must include both Elite Men's and Elite Women's games in their draws. Any team that wants to qualify for points must enter at least four of these tournaments.A very good move indeed since 7's Rugby is now an Olympic sport.
We at the shores of Burnaby Lake are also getting ready. The Men have already started their practice and the Women will start May 25th. There is a lot of interest due to the success of the Burnaby Lake Lighthouse 7's program last year. More players have committed to playing this year and the inclusion of a few seasoned 7's players will only boost the preparation and confidence of those already in the Lighthouse program. We're already 3 months into our U14 and Junior 7's program so the message is being delivered and heard loud and clear.
Our Women's 7's is being revamped in a major way and we're adding resourses and expertice to it to boost its development and progress.
Practice is at the Lake Tuesdays and Thursdays at 7.30pm. It immediately follows the Juniors practice, which starts at 6.30pm
Teams are aready gearing up for what is looking to be a very busy and competitive 7's season.
The first BC sanctioned tournament is the James Bay one on June 12th and the last tournament will be in Cowichan on the weekend of Sept 4 - 5th. Inside these two Bookends will be Vancouver 7's at Brockton Oval,CAN AM 7's, SFU Highland,the International 7's in Abbotsford,Lighthouse 7's at Burnaby Lake,Capilano, Bayside7's to name a few. There are Social 7's events as well.
This year promises to be very competitive, as all tournament hosts try to attract good teams. Those that are serious about their 7's will want to participate in these tournaments. The format is different this year as well, as BC Rugby has decided to awards points, much like the irb World 7's series.
The other major attraction this year is the inclusion of the Women's series. Any tournament that wants to be counted as a BC 7's stop, must include both Elite Men's and Elite Women's games in their draws. Any team that wants to qualify for points must enter at least four of these tournaments.A very good move indeed since 7's Rugby is now an Olympic sport.
We at the shores of Burnaby Lake are also getting ready. The Men have already started their practice and the Women will start May 25th. There is a lot of interest due to the success of the Burnaby Lake Lighthouse 7's program last year. More players have committed to playing this year and the inclusion of a few seasoned 7's players will only boost the preparation and confidence of those already in the Lighthouse program. We're already 3 months into our U14 and Junior 7's program so the message is being delivered and heard loud and clear.
Our Women's 7's is being revamped in a major way and we're adding resourses and expertice to it to boost its development and progress.
Practice is at the Lake Tuesdays and Thursdays at 7.30pm. It immediately follows the Juniors practice, which starts at 6.30pm
Friday, March 26, 2010
Premier Women's Team against United Announced
Roko Kapaiwai
The BLRC Women's Rugby Coaching Staff have announced a Strong Line Up to tackle United RFC at home this weekend
The Coaching Staff of the Burnaby Lake Women's Rugby Program have announced a strong line up to match up against United RFC on the shores of Burnaby Lake Saturday morning.
Kick Off is 11.30 in what should be an exciting encounter. The last time these two met, it was a lopsided 53 - 7 win to Burnaby, with Stevie Schnoor crossing for United's solitary try. They will be looking for some redemption on Saturday.
The line up sees a few changes from the Team that beat VELOX last week, some due to injuries in the backline, but a notable one is in the backrow. It is a positional change that promises to wreak havok on United
Romping stomping Marie-Eve Brindamour, nicknamed Bruce(no relation to the Towering Bruce on the Men's Premier side but a Tower nonetheless) is at Openside Flanker!!! This position is usually filled by Laura Harmse who is always a pest to the opposition, making a nuisance of herself without any regard for her safety. Kinda like Richie McCaw in some ways.
Front Row sees the usual suspects tormenting the opposition. I've called them Roses &Thorns before, Kim Donaldson the rose between thorns Brenna Glover and Corrine Jacobsen. They had their way against Velox last week and should be a good platform again on Saturday.
Behind them are literally four locks in Marley Harris at 6, Jody Dobush at 4, Emma Hadfield at 5 and Towering Marie-Eve at 7. Anchoring this powerful pack is Ms. Harmse
The Backline sees a few changes due to some injuries. The eveready Kary Steele slots in at inside Centre due to the broken finger injury to Dr. Maria Gallo. Deb Capps takes over from Daamiann Skelton who terrorised the VELOX backline with her blazing speed last week. She has a tweaked back, but is on the bench. The backs is again being anchored by Julia at 9 who distributes to Captain Schnell, they work very well together, these two. Tanya Hamilton is on the other wing and Devon Luca guards the backfield.
Be at the field on Saturday at 11.30 to witness some entertaining Rugby!!!
The full line Up is:
1. Brenna Glover
2. Kim Donaldson (vice-captain)
3. Corrine Jacobsen
4. Jody Dobush
5. Emma Hadfield
6. Marley Harris
7. Marie-Eve Brindamour
8. Laura Harmse
9. Julia Sugawara
10. Anna Schnell (captain)
11. Deb Capps
12. Kary Steele
13. Mel Miyazaki
14. Tanya Hamilton
15. Devon Luca
Shannon Fedewa
Dammian Skelton
Erin Clement
Allice Schandler
Sue-Lyn Wirth
Becky Querido
Krystal Steele
The BLRC Women's Rugby Coaching Staff have announced a Strong Line Up to tackle United RFC at home this weekend
The Coaching Staff of the Burnaby Lake Women's Rugby Program have announced a strong line up to match up against United RFC on the shores of Burnaby Lake Saturday morning.
Kick Off is 11.30 in what should be an exciting encounter. The last time these two met, it was a lopsided 53 - 7 win to Burnaby, with Stevie Schnoor crossing for United's solitary try. They will be looking for some redemption on Saturday.
The line up sees a few changes from the Team that beat VELOX last week, some due to injuries in the backline, but a notable one is in the backrow. It is a positional change that promises to wreak havok on United
Romping stomping Marie-Eve Brindamour, nicknamed Bruce(no relation to the Towering Bruce on the Men's Premier side but a Tower nonetheless) is at Openside Flanker!!! This position is usually filled by Laura Harmse who is always a pest to the opposition, making a nuisance of herself without any regard for her safety. Kinda like Richie McCaw in some ways.
Front Row sees the usual suspects tormenting the opposition. I've called them Roses &Thorns before, Kim Donaldson the rose between thorns Brenna Glover and Corrine Jacobsen. They had their way against Velox last week and should be a good platform again on Saturday.
Behind them are literally four locks in Marley Harris at 6, Jody Dobush at 4, Emma Hadfield at 5 and Towering Marie-Eve at 7. Anchoring this powerful pack is Ms. Harmse
The Backline sees a few changes due to some injuries. The eveready Kary Steele slots in at inside Centre due to the broken finger injury to Dr. Maria Gallo. Deb Capps takes over from Daamiann Skelton who terrorised the VELOX backline with her blazing speed last week. She has a tweaked back, but is on the bench. The backs is again being anchored by Julia at 9 who distributes to Captain Schnell, they work very well together, these two. Tanya Hamilton is on the other wing and Devon Luca guards the backfield.
Be at the field on Saturday at 11.30 to witness some entertaining Rugby!!!
The full line Up is:
1. Brenna Glover
2. Kim Donaldson (vice-captain)
3. Corrine Jacobsen
4. Jody Dobush
5. Emma Hadfield
6. Marley Harris
7. Marie-Eve Brindamour
8. Laura Harmse
9. Julia Sugawara
10. Anna Schnell (captain)
11. Deb Capps
12. Kary Steele
13. Mel Miyazaki
14. Tanya Hamilton
15. Devon Luca
Shannon Fedewa
Dammian Skelton
Erin Clement
Allice Schandler
Sue-Lyn Wirth
Becky Querido
Krystal Steele
Wednesday, March 24, 2010
Another Hard Fought Encounter Between the Valkyries and Burnaby Lake
By Ian Trevor
March 20, 2010 saw Burnaby Lake hosting the always tough Velox Valkyries in Premier Women’s action.
The two clubs have a rich tradition of hard fought games, scoreline notwithstanding, and with Burnaby having had their match vs. the Lomas postponed the prior week due to a late field closure and the unavailability of a backup field, there was an added air of anticipation to the match.
Velox achieved dominance on the island in the first half, and Burnaby was relishing the challenge that Velox would present.
Indeed, from the first opening kick off, defence was the order of the day. Velox hammered hard in the centres, and openside flanker Shannon Kane made her marauding presence felt early and often. Burnaby captain Anna Schnell responded. Field position became the order of the day, and between Anna and Inside Centre Maria Gallo, Burnaby was able to kick to open space behind the Velox backline giving the forwards an opportunity to contest lineout ball in the Velox half.
Burnaby opened the scoring when a set piece within sight of the 22 gave Anna Schnell space for a well weigthed chip kick over the defensive backline that right wing Daamiann Skelton was only too happy to run onto and collect for a try in the corner, converted by Anna Schnell. Velox roared back with furious work at the breakdown. Burnaby attempted to match Velox’s ferocity, but were unable to do that, and comply with the views of match day referee Leon Britz. This would start a pattern where Burnaby were doing well when going forward and retaining ball, but when the turnovers occurred the penalties would come.
Burnaby was able to string together enough continuity to work it’s way down to the Velox 22 and with a ball being spun wide to the right Kim Donaldson found herself on the wing with Daamiann Skelton supporting on the outside. Daamo was surplus to requirements on this one, as Kim dotted down for the second Burnaby try.
Velox again started to work their way back in, but a combination of good defensive pressure by Burnaby and an errant pass in the Velox centres saw Mel Miyazaki pick up an interception and sprint nearly half the field to touch down by the posts for the games third try. Anna Schnell converted. Again Velox stormed back, this time pressure was turned into points as repeated penalties inside the Burnaby 22 for hands in, offside and not releasing yielded a converted try for the visitors.
Burnaby and Velox also exchanged penalty kicks during the half leaving the halftime score at 22 – 10 for Burnaby Lake
The first half also saw the unfortunate departure of Maria Gallo with a broken finger. Maria has national team duty beckoning in the summer and we all wish her a speedy recovery in time for the Women’s World Cup.
As with the match vs Capilanos two weeks prior, halftime was about adjustment and re-focus. The challenge was to reset on defence, and ensure that Burnaby was compliant with the laws at the breakdown. With Kary Steele already on for the injured Maria Gallo, Lindsay Bernrot was welcomed back to the premier fold at fullback. Tanya Hamilton took a well earned rest after deputizing on the left wing in the first half. Devon Luca moved over to the left wing in Tanya’s place.
Burnaby came out flying in the second half. The intensity levels were cranked up and peace was made with the man in the middle. Sterling effort up front and at the breakdown from Kim Donaldson and Emma Hadfield made life difficult for the Valkyries, while the extra injection of pace and creativity from Lindsay Bernrot provided an added dimension to the Burnaby backline attack.
Five more tries would be added to the score sheet as the Burnaby forwards consistently secured quality possession for Julia Sugawara to provide Anna Schnell with a steady diet of quality ball for the midfield and outside backs.
As befits a club of Velox’s character their effort and commitment never waned. However the closest they would manage to a second try was a Jess Dovane scamper from midfield that just failed short of the Burnaby line. Marley Harris was able to track the Velox centre down from behind for a try saving tackle. This was the icing on the cake for Marley as she had a very strong game, both in attack and in defence.
Final Score: Burnaby 47 – Velox 10
Scorers
BLRC
Tries:
Kim Donaldson
Marie-Eve Brindamour
Anna Schnell
Melissa Miyazaki (2)
Daamiann Skelton (2)
Devon Luca
Converts
Anna Schnell (2)
Penalty
Anna Schnell
VELOX
Tries
Marlene Donaldson
Converts
Amanda Campbell
Penalty
Amanda Campbell
March 20, 2010 saw Burnaby Lake hosting the always tough Velox Valkyries in Premier Women’s action.
The two clubs have a rich tradition of hard fought games, scoreline notwithstanding, and with Burnaby having had their match vs. the Lomas postponed the prior week due to a late field closure and the unavailability of a backup field, there was an added air of anticipation to the match.
Velox achieved dominance on the island in the first half, and Burnaby was relishing the challenge that Velox would present.
Indeed, from the first opening kick off, defence was the order of the day. Velox hammered hard in the centres, and openside flanker Shannon Kane made her marauding presence felt early and often. Burnaby captain Anna Schnell responded. Field position became the order of the day, and between Anna and Inside Centre Maria Gallo, Burnaby was able to kick to open space behind the Velox backline giving the forwards an opportunity to contest lineout ball in the Velox half.
Burnaby opened the scoring when a set piece within sight of the 22 gave Anna Schnell space for a well weigthed chip kick over the defensive backline that right wing Daamiann Skelton was only too happy to run onto and collect for a try in the corner, converted by Anna Schnell. Velox roared back with furious work at the breakdown. Burnaby attempted to match Velox’s ferocity, but were unable to do that, and comply with the views of match day referee Leon Britz. This would start a pattern where Burnaby were doing well when going forward and retaining ball, but when the turnovers occurred the penalties would come.
Burnaby was able to string together enough continuity to work it’s way down to the Velox 22 and with a ball being spun wide to the right Kim Donaldson found herself on the wing with Daamiann Skelton supporting on the outside. Daamo was surplus to requirements on this one, as Kim dotted down for the second Burnaby try.
Velox again started to work their way back in, but a combination of good defensive pressure by Burnaby and an errant pass in the Velox centres saw Mel Miyazaki pick up an interception and sprint nearly half the field to touch down by the posts for the games third try. Anna Schnell converted. Again Velox stormed back, this time pressure was turned into points as repeated penalties inside the Burnaby 22 for hands in, offside and not releasing yielded a converted try for the visitors.
Burnaby and Velox also exchanged penalty kicks during the half leaving the halftime score at 22 – 10 for Burnaby Lake
The first half also saw the unfortunate departure of Maria Gallo with a broken finger. Maria has national team duty beckoning in the summer and we all wish her a speedy recovery in time for the Women’s World Cup.
As with the match vs Capilanos two weeks prior, halftime was about adjustment and re-focus. The challenge was to reset on defence, and ensure that Burnaby was compliant with the laws at the breakdown. With Kary Steele already on for the injured Maria Gallo, Lindsay Bernrot was welcomed back to the premier fold at fullback. Tanya Hamilton took a well earned rest after deputizing on the left wing in the first half. Devon Luca moved over to the left wing in Tanya’s place.
Burnaby came out flying in the second half. The intensity levels were cranked up and peace was made with the man in the middle. Sterling effort up front and at the breakdown from Kim Donaldson and Emma Hadfield made life difficult for the Valkyries, while the extra injection of pace and creativity from Lindsay Bernrot provided an added dimension to the Burnaby backline attack.
Five more tries would be added to the score sheet as the Burnaby forwards consistently secured quality possession for Julia Sugawara to provide Anna Schnell with a steady diet of quality ball for the midfield and outside backs.
As befits a club of Velox’s character their effort and commitment never waned. However the closest they would manage to a second try was a Jess Dovane scamper from midfield that just failed short of the Burnaby line. Marley Harris was able to track the Velox centre down from behind for a try saving tackle. This was the icing on the cake for Marley as she had a very strong game, both in attack and in defence.
Final Score: Burnaby 47 – Velox 10
Scorers
BLRC
Tries:
Kim Donaldson
Marie-Eve Brindamour
Anna Schnell
Melissa Miyazaki (2)
Daamiann Skelton (2)
Devon Luca
Converts
Anna Schnell (2)
Penalty
Anna Schnell
VELOX
Tries
Marlene Donaldson
Converts
Amanda Campbell
Penalty
Amanda Campbell
Monday, March 22, 2010
Burnaby Lake 2nd Division Women's Team Opens up BLOBS Day with a Win over the Lomas
By Katie Larson
The Burnaby Lake 2nd Division Women’s team fielded an eager and talented side against the Merelomas 2nd Division side on Saturday morning earning the first of two wins for the women’s program on the day.
The game was opened with a strong showing by Burnaby’s side retaining possession for multiple phases of play. Eventually the forward drives were able to suck in enough Lomas players to open up some space in the backline for outside center Deb Capps sprint in from the 22 for the first try of the day.
The Lomas responded with some solid cycling of the ball which caught the Burnaby defence off guard and led to a break by the Lomas scrum half. The Lomas speedster sprinted up the side line, but Capps was able to cut her off and make the try saving tackle.
Burnaby got right back on track with scrum half Lauren Tagg picking off the back of the breakdown and darting her way through the Lomas defence to cross the try line.
The scoring gates really opened up in the second half when fly half Lindsay Bernrot switched positions with inside center Heather Weldon. Weldon’s consistent movement of the ball sprung Bernrot through gaps multiple times allowing her to score three times. Shannon Fedewa also chipped in a try, while Erin Clement finished off an excellent forward charge up the field to touch down. Clement, new to Burnaby from Ottawa, has been an excellent addition to the Burnaby women’s program with her solid scrumming work and ability to adapt in any position. She also surprised everyone on Saturday with her kicking of 4 conversions.
The Lomas were able to sneak one try past Burnaby as Amy Grath received a penalty try for taking a high tackle making the final score 43- 7.
Burnaby Scorers
Lauren Tagg
Lindsay Bernrot (3)
Deb Capps
Shannon Fedewa
Erin Clement (1 try, 4 conversions)
Merelomas Scorers
Amy Grath
The Burnaby Lake 2nd Division Women’s team fielded an eager and talented side against the Merelomas 2nd Division side on Saturday morning earning the first of two wins for the women’s program on the day.
The game was opened with a strong showing by Burnaby’s side retaining possession for multiple phases of play. Eventually the forward drives were able to suck in enough Lomas players to open up some space in the backline for outside center Deb Capps sprint in from the 22 for the first try of the day.
The Lomas responded with some solid cycling of the ball which caught the Burnaby defence off guard and led to a break by the Lomas scrum half. The Lomas speedster sprinted up the side line, but Capps was able to cut her off and make the try saving tackle.
Burnaby got right back on track with scrum half Lauren Tagg picking off the back of the breakdown and darting her way through the Lomas defence to cross the try line.
The scoring gates really opened up in the second half when fly half Lindsay Bernrot switched positions with inside center Heather Weldon. Weldon’s consistent movement of the ball sprung Bernrot through gaps multiple times allowing her to score three times. Shannon Fedewa also chipped in a try, while Erin Clement finished off an excellent forward charge up the field to touch down. Clement, new to Burnaby from Ottawa, has been an excellent addition to the Burnaby women’s program with her solid scrumming work and ability to adapt in any position. She also surprised everyone on Saturday with her kicking of 4 conversions.
The Lomas were able to sneak one try past Burnaby as Amy Grath received a penalty try for taking a high tackle making the final score 43- 7.
Burnaby Scorers
Lauren Tagg
Lindsay Bernrot (3)
Deb Capps
Shannon Fedewa
Erin Clement (1 try, 4 conversions)
Merelomas Scorers
Amy Grath
Thursday, September 24, 2009
Burnaby Lake Girls Beat Japanese National Women's Team
It was an evening of jubilation on the Shores of Burnaby Lake last night as the current BC Women's Rugby Champs took on the Japanese National Women's Team and won in the last minute by ONE POINT!!!
What an end to a beautiful hard fought game.
Team captain and current National Women #10 Anna Schnell scored the first points with a penalty but was quickly countered with two quick tries and a convert by the Japanese Ladies to go up 12 - 3.
The smaller Japan girls(at least they looked small) were very quick to the breakdowns and strong in the scrums, winning at least 5 tightheads and numerous steals in rucks and mauls. Fans of Burnaby Lake on the sidelines were quickly losing their fingernails as they struggled to come to grips with the number of lead changes and the way their ladies were being womanhandled by the ladies from the Land of the Rising Sun. It does not usually happen to these girls.
Second half started well for the locals after a quick chat by the coaching staff, and guest player Emily Young from our neighbors in Kamploops suddenly found the ball in her hands and sprinted around her opponent for an uncoverted try. I couldn't keep up with who scored when as there were about three lead changes during the game - only that Burnaby was down by six with about a minute left....Yikes!!
Emily came through again as she again found herself with the ball and again ran around her opponent to score. Everyone on both sides waited anxiously for the convert and when Ms Schnell slotted it through between the uprights and the final whistle was blown, the local ladies and their fans jumped with joy and the visitors hung their heads in disappointment. But this was anybody's game right to the final second!! Japan, ranked 13th in the World vowed to do better on Saturday against BC, Burnaby Lake, ranked nowhere in the world, jumped to 12th.........I think.
Most of these ladies will probably never play against a National side again so this win makes it very memorable for them.
KAUKAUWA!!
What an end to a beautiful hard fought game.
Team captain and current National Women #10 Anna Schnell scored the first points with a penalty but was quickly countered with two quick tries and a convert by the Japanese Ladies to go up 12 - 3.
The smaller Japan girls(at least they looked small) were very quick to the breakdowns and strong in the scrums, winning at least 5 tightheads and numerous steals in rucks and mauls. Fans of Burnaby Lake on the sidelines were quickly losing their fingernails as they struggled to come to grips with the number of lead changes and the way their ladies were being womanhandled by the ladies from the Land of the Rising Sun. It does not usually happen to these girls.
Second half started well for the locals after a quick chat by the coaching staff, and guest player Emily Young from our neighbors in Kamploops suddenly found the ball in her hands and sprinted around her opponent for an uncoverted try. I couldn't keep up with who scored when as there were about three lead changes during the game - only that Burnaby was down by six with about a minute left....Yikes!!
Emily came through again as she again found herself with the ball and again ran around her opponent to score. Everyone on both sides waited anxiously for the convert and when Ms Schnell slotted it through between the uprights and the final whistle was blown, the local ladies and their fans jumped with joy and the visitors hung their heads in disappointment. But this was anybody's game right to the final second!! Japan, ranked 13th in the World vowed to do better on Saturday against BC, Burnaby Lake, ranked nowhere in the world, jumped to 12th.........I think.
Most of these ladies will probably never play against a National side again so this win makes it very memorable for them.
KAUKAUWA!!
Wednesday, September 23, 2009
Burnaby Lake Women Tests Strength & Talent Against Japanese National Team
The BC Womens Premier Provincial Champion, Burnaby Lake Rugby Club, will play the Japan National Women's Rugby Team Wednesday afternoon at the Burnaby Lake Fields. Preparation has been going well and Monday night they were helped at practice with a srimmage against their own Third Division Men's Team. It was a full on Rugby game, Men against Women and the Women's Captain, Anna Schnell, was heard later commenting to her troops that it was the best practice they've had so far. It was interesting to watch as Assitant Coaches, Emma Hadfield and Ian Trevor ran them through different phases. Scrums in particular, were fun to watch as Tighthead prop Alice held her own against Jeremy Jarvis, a veteran on the Burnaby Lake Men's squad.
Lineout jumps produced mixed results, which would mean a closer attention needs to be paid to in this area.
The girls are pumped!! The squad includes some former and current National and Provincial reps, and for some of these girls, this is an opportunity not to be missed, as it is probably the only time they will ever get to play against a National Team. It will be an exciting afternoon indeed for all involved and those of us on the Management side are just as pumped as those who will be on the field playing in the Blue & White Color of BURNABY LAKE RUGBY
KAUKAUWA!!!!!
Lineout jumps produced mixed results, which would mean a closer attention needs to be paid to in this area.
The girls are pumped!! The squad includes some former and current National and Provincial reps, and for some of these girls, this is an opportunity not to be missed, as it is probably the only time they will ever get to play against a National Team. It will be an exciting afternoon indeed for all involved and those of us on the Management side are just as pumped as those who will be on the field playing in the Blue & White Color of BURNABY LAKE RUGBY
KAUKAUWA!!!!!
Monday, September 21, 2009
BURNABY LAKE WOMEN OPENS SEASON WITH WIN AMID CHANGES
The new season has brought about a multitude of change at Burnaby Lake. With Mike James in charge of the BC Bears, the coaching staff at Burnaby Lake has shifted to more of an overall club focus.
Change is never easy, and on Saturday the Burnaby Lake Premier Women’s team took a big step towards getting the changes behind them. To paraphrase the head coach of the Burnaby Lake Premier Women's team, Walt Brandl, what we did or didn't do in the build up doesn't matter, what matters is what we do now.
Burnaby-Bayside games are always competitive affairs, regardless of the result, as there is a wealth of respect on both sides of the pitch and sidelines. While the result on the day (40 - 3 for Burnaby) may seem lopsided, Bayside had their opportunities, and as always battled to the final whistle.
The first 20 minutes saw the two teams feeling each other out with the field position and possession shifting back and forth, and Bayside in the lead from a penalty kick. Further effective kicking from the Bayside fly half kept Burnaby hemmed back at times, until the back 3 made some adjustments. Once those adjustments were made, some effective counter attacking through Devon Luca, Daamo Skelton and newcomer Maggie Pitts helped Burnaby get itself out of trouble.
As the game grew, the Burnaby pack, lead ably by Kim Donaldson and Laura Harmse, began to assert itself in the set pieces and at the breakdown creating the platform Lauren Tagg would need to ensure that captain Anna Schnell would receive the ball she needed to engineer the attacking process. Tries for the day were tallied by Anna Schnell with two, Mel Miyazaki also with two, Daamo Skelton and Erin Jang tallying one each. A total of six tries with Captain Schnell converting 5 of them to add to her contribution on the Scoreboard.
Next up for Burnaby is Japan on Wednesday Sept 23rd at the Club. This will be an exciting moment for the women, and for some players, a once in a lifetime opportunity to play against a National team.
Posted with contribution from Coach Ian Trevor
Change is never easy, and on Saturday the Burnaby Lake Premier Women’s team took a big step towards getting the changes behind them. To paraphrase the head coach of the Burnaby Lake Premier Women's team, Walt Brandl, what we did or didn't do in the build up doesn't matter, what matters is what we do now.
Burnaby-Bayside games are always competitive affairs, regardless of the result, as there is a wealth of respect on both sides of the pitch and sidelines. While the result on the day (40 - 3 for Burnaby) may seem lopsided, Bayside had their opportunities, and as always battled to the final whistle.
The first 20 minutes saw the two teams feeling each other out with the field position and possession shifting back and forth, and Bayside in the lead from a penalty kick. Further effective kicking from the Bayside fly half kept Burnaby hemmed back at times, until the back 3 made some adjustments. Once those adjustments were made, some effective counter attacking through Devon Luca, Daamo Skelton and newcomer Maggie Pitts helped Burnaby get itself out of trouble.
As the game grew, the Burnaby pack, lead ably by Kim Donaldson and Laura Harmse, began to assert itself in the set pieces and at the breakdown creating the platform Lauren Tagg would need to ensure that captain Anna Schnell would receive the ball she needed to engineer the attacking process. Tries for the day were tallied by Anna Schnell with two, Mel Miyazaki also with two, Daamo Skelton and Erin Jang tallying one each. A total of six tries with Captain Schnell converting 5 of them to add to her contribution on the Scoreboard.
Next up for Burnaby is Japan on Wednesday Sept 23rd at the Club. This will be an exciting moment for the women, and for some players, a once in a lifetime opportunity to play against a National team.
Posted with contribution from Coach Ian Trevor
Friday, July 24, 2009
The Abby Sevens is Here
Greetings from the Shores of Burnaby Lake.
One more sleep and we will be converging on the grounds of Rotary Stadium in Abbotsford, for the innaugural International Sevens Tournament. This will be the first time International Teams will lock horns with Domestic Clubs to see who has more snort. Kenya, Canada and the West Indies are the International Sides playing in this tournament and will be up against top domestic Clubs such as hosts Abbotsford, Bayside and Burnaby Lake Lighthouse. There are teams from our neighbors down south here as well as we all try and win the coveted almighty buck on offer.
But more importantly, it is a chance to play against some big names in sevens rugby.
Burnaby Lake has been quietly preparing for this under the tutelage of duo-international Senirusi(Bruce) Rauqe, their Captain. Things were clicking well during their last run on Thursday; Friday afternoon was a chance to meet up for a game of 'touch' rugby with their neighbors, the Pacific Islanders, who will be playing at the Domestic Tournament.
There is really nothing more to say at this point except to wake up in the morning and stroll over to Rotary Stadium for a day full of Sevens Rugby
!!K A U K A U W A!!
One more sleep and we will be converging on the grounds of Rotary Stadium in Abbotsford, for the innaugural International Sevens Tournament. This will be the first time International Teams will lock horns with Domestic Clubs to see who has more snort. Kenya, Canada and the West Indies are the International Sides playing in this tournament and will be up against top domestic Clubs such as hosts Abbotsford, Bayside and Burnaby Lake Lighthouse. There are teams from our neighbors down south here as well as we all try and win the coveted almighty buck on offer.
But more importantly, it is a chance to play against some big names in sevens rugby.
Burnaby Lake has been quietly preparing for this under the tutelage of duo-international Senirusi(Bruce) Rauqe, their Captain. Things were clicking well during their last run on Thursday; Friday afternoon was a chance to meet up for a game of 'touch' rugby with their neighbors, the Pacific Islanders, who will be playing at the Domestic Tournament.
There is really nothing more to say at this point except to wake up in the morning and stroll over to Rotary Stadium for a day full of Sevens Rugby
!!K A U K A U W A!!
Friday, July 17, 2009
The Kenyans Are Coming
Mark this date on your Rugby Calendar..........July 25th!!!
Tell the girlfriend/wife you're helping your Boss move and it will take all day
Tell the boyfriend/husband you need to go comfort an old girlfriend who's feeling down - and won't be back till Sunday morning.
Tell the Boss you're sick, but because you've run out of sick days, you're calling in Dead.
But if all the abovementioned humanoids play or like Rugby....then drag their carcasses over to Rotary Stadium in Abbotsford for a day full of exciting Sevens Rugby!!! Just say "You're coming with me so let's go"
The occasion is the first ever International Sevens Tournament involving both International Teams and Domestic Clubs. Teams from Kenya, West Indies, Canada Select, the Pacific Islanders are just some of the teams with speed to burn and talent to showcase. The Kenyans alone should be worth the price of two tickets.
Of course the main target on the local scene lately has been our beloved BURNABY LAKE LIGHTHOUSE!!....THEY SHOULD BE WORTH FOUR TICKETS!!
They have only won the two tournaments they've entered - Rowers and SFU Sevens.
The President of the Abbotsford International sevens had watched two games at SFU and was so impressed with the boys' play he has called to confirm that we will be playing on the International Tournament instead of the Domestic version.
What this means is we will be running against the long-legged Kenyans who, after watching some of the World series sevens tournaments they've played in, I'm sure run faster than gazelles. No worries, we have coyotes in Burnaby that can catch them!!At least a couple of them have legs longer than the Kenyans.
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The Team is preparing well. Captain Bruce Rauqe has been running them hard. Focus this week has been on fitness and next week they will go through ball handling and the different phases of the game. Some of the boys are tied up with work but have promised to do fitness work on their own.
Manager has been encouraging those that grace the shores of the lake on Tuesdays and Thursdays to join in on their practice so he can pick the best Twelve for the tournament. It is a biggie and we need the best coyotes available to catch the gazelles of Kenya and the Canadian Wild Geese and whatever birds, critters animals - either with four or two legs - and bring the spoils to the shores of Burnaby Lake!!
So, if your Partner or Boss likes Rugby bring them along. If they don't, use the excuses mentioned above.
July 25th is to be marked on the Calendar and excuses need to be divised and planned now!!
KAUKAUWA!!!
Tell the girlfriend/wife you're helping your Boss move and it will take all day
Tell the boyfriend/husband you need to go comfort an old girlfriend who's feeling down - and won't be back till Sunday morning.
Tell the Boss you're sick, but because you've run out of sick days, you're calling in Dead.
But if all the abovementioned humanoids play or like Rugby....then drag their carcasses over to Rotary Stadium in Abbotsford for a day full of exciting Sevens Rugby!!! Just say "You're coming with me so let's go"
The occasion is the first ever International Sevens Tournament involving both International Teams and Domestic Clubs. Teams from Kenya, West Indies, Canada Select, the Pacific Islanders are just some of the teams with speed to burn and talent to showcase. The Kenyans alone should be worth the price of two tickets.
Of course the main target on the local scene lately has been our beloved BURNABY LAKE LIGHTHOUSE!!....THEY SHOULD BE WORTH FOUR TICKETS!!
They have only won the two tournaments they've entered - Rowers and SFU Sevens.
The President of the Abbotsford International sevens had watched two games at SFU and was so impressed with the boys' play he has called to confirm that we will be playing on the International Tournament instead of the Domestic version.
What this means is we will be running against the long-legged Kenyans who, after watching some of the World series sevens tournaments they've played in, I'm sure run faster than gazelles. No worries, we have coyotes in Burnaby that can catch them!!At least a couple of them have legs longer than the Kenyans.
.JPG)
The Team is preparing well. Captain Bruce Rauqe has been running them hard. Focus this week has been on fitness and next week they will go through ball handling and the different phases of the game. Some of the boys are tied up with work but have promised to do fitness work on their own.
Manager has been encouraging those that grace the shores of the lake on Tuesdays and Thursdays to join in on their practice so he can pick the best Twelve for the tournament. It is a biggie and we need the best coyotes available to catch the gazelles of Kenya and the Canadian Wild Geese and whatever birds, critters animals - either with four or two legs - and bring the spoils to the shores of Burnaby Lake!!
So, if your Partner or Boss likes Rugby bring them along. If they don't, use the excuses mentioned above.
July 25th is to be marked on the Calendar and excuses need to be divised and planned now!!
KAUKAUWA!!!
Monday, July 6, 2009
We will We will ROCK YOU!!!...............
The weekend has come and gone, I hope that nobody has lost a few days of their lives, what with all the weddings and partying in Kamloops!!! At least somebody was having fun. Out here on the coast, we were up at Burnaby Mountain having a picnic - with some Sevens Rugby thrown in for good measure. It was the 27th Annual SFU Sevens Tournament, and what a day it was. Lots of solid Rugby hits, nailbiting moments and just sheer jubilation as the Burnaby Lake Lighthouse Sevens Team was crowned champion for the second time in as many tournaments. YES!!!
The day started with a win over arch-rival Youngbucks, followed by a nailbiting nervous game against the Brit-Lions. I think the boys underestimated the Brit-Lions and for a while there were some very tense and anxious looks on the faces of their strong fanbase watching from the sidelines. In the end, it was another win to the Lighthouse. The boys, for some reason, were playing immediately after the ladies from Seattle who called themselves the MUDHENS. They also decided to set up camp right next to the Lighthouse Tent and as soon as they finished their game, they would come by and said to the boys "we won, now it's your turn". By some luck of the draw, the schedule was like this until the final game. We played right after them - a good omen I think - so it was agreed that if we're lucky enough to be invited to next years SFU sevens again, we will set up camp right next to each other again.
After the game against Scribes, which was marred by very very poor refereeing, we found out that we will be playing against the Brit-Lions again in the semis. They were dispatched a lot quicker this time on our way to the finals- and another meeting with the Youngbucks, who took care of the LOMAS in the other semi.
After some words of encouragement from the MUDHENS, who had just won their finals, the boys took the fileld for the last time.
Midway through the first half, the Youngbucks were leading 15 - 0. Not a very good way to start the final but a look of calmness and quiet determination can be seen on the Captain's face as he jumped unassisted to steal a lineout and trotted upfield like a pony possesed before unloading to Asesela Vunituraga who ran through a couple of Youngbucks Jonah Lomu Style. After receiving the RED Card from the same referee at the Rowers Sevens, Sela was on his best behaviour up at the mountain. He took his aggresive style to the opposition by hitting them hard in tackles. At least one player from all the teams they played was given the HIT. It was crunching and loud, the loudest of which was the hit on one of the youngbucks backline boys. There was a chorous of awwwe from the sideline all the way to the beer garden as if they had been hit themselves. Poor guy was driven back at least five metres. Sela quickly got up and drove the other guy that got the ball out of touch!! It was a thing of beauty!!
Halftime score was 15-12 and after some longstriding runs from captain Bruce Rauqe, who ran like he was being chased all day by a woman in a long hat riding a broom, the final score came in our favour 22-12. Bruce scored 8 tries as he led the boys in Black & White to the final victory. They are now 2-0 in the tournaments they've entered so far. Not bad for a bunch of guys put together through the love of the game and are now having so much fun running around on the shores of Burnaby Lake!!
Next up is Abbotsford.
KAUKAUWA!!!
The day started with a win over arch-rival Youngbucks, followed by a nailbiting nervous game against the Brit-Lions. I think the boys underestimated the Brit-Lions and for a while there were some very tense and anxious looks on the faces of their strong fanbase watching from the sidelines. In the end, it was another win to the Lighthouse. The boys, for some reason, were playing immediately after the ladies from Seattle who called themselves the MUDHENS. They also decided to set up camp right next to the Lighthouse Tent and as soon as they finished their game, they would come by and said to the boys "we won, now it's your turn". By some luck of the draw, the schedule was like this until the final game. We played right after them - a good omen I think - so it was agreed that if we're lucky enough to be invited to next years SFU sevens again, we will set up camp right next to each other again.
After the game against Scribes, which was marred by very very poor refereeing, we found out that we will be playing against the Brit-Lions again in the semis. They were dispatched a lot quicker this time on our way to the finals- and another meeting with the Youngbucks, who took care of the LOMAS in the other semi.
After some words of encouragement from the MUDHENS, who had just won their finals, the boys took the fileld for the last time.
Midway through the first half, the Youngbucks were leading 15 - 0. Not a very good way to start the final but a look of calmness and quiet determination can be seen on the Captain's face as he jumped unassisted to steal a lineout and trotted upfield like a pony possesed before unloading to Asesela Vunituraga who ran through a couple of Youngbucks Jonah Lomu Style. After receiving the RED Card from the same referee at the Rowers Sevens, Sela was on his best behaviour up at the mountain. He took his aggresive style to the opposition by hitting them hard in tackles. At least one player from all the teams they played was given the HIT. It was crunching and loud, the loudest of which was the hit on one of the youngbucks backline boys. There was a chorous of awwwe from the sideline all the way to the beer garden as if they had been hit themselves. Poor guy was driven back at least five metres. Sela quickly got up and drove the other guy that got the ball out of touch!! It was a thing of beauty!!
Halftime score was 15-12 and after some longstriding runs from captain Bruce Rauqe, who ran like he was being chased all day by a woman in a long hat riding a broom, the final score came in our favour 22-12. Bruce scored 8 tries as he led the boys in Black & White to the final victory. They are now 2-0 in the tournaments they've entered so far. Not bad for a bunch of guys put together through the love of the game and are now having so much fun running around on the shores of Burnaby Lake!!
Next up is Abbotsford.
KAUKAUWA!!!
Friday, July 3, 2009
Burnaby Mountain Beckons
Well, two more sleeps and we will be heading up the hill to Burnaby Mountain for the SFU RFC International Sevens. Can't wait!!!
After a two week layoff, it is time to put the boots back on, say goodbye to the girlfriend for a few hours and go do what rugby boys do on a Saturday - play some rugby. Sevens rugby!!
Practice was tight on Tuesday for the BLRC Lighthouse Team, but it came together on Thursday on the final run before kick-off. They're blooding in a few new faces as some of the suspected criminals from the previous week are attending the wedding of Katie Wells and the short Ausie with torn/worn runners - in Kamloops!! Congratulations you two!!
A total of 23 teams are taking part this year, and it should be fun checking out the opposition during pool play - whether your team is on the Premier, Social or women's division
That's right, we have women on this one showing off their moves and tackles.
Premier Mens should provide some hard competitive games as the Young Bucks would like to dethrone Burnaby Lake after their loss in the Rowers Sevens. Brit Lions have some Fijian boys on their squad so match No.21, at 12.20pm should provide some hard tackles and lots of flair. They'll be pitting their talents and experience against the boys in Barbarian Colors from Burnaby Lake.
Meralomas and the Scribblers should not be taken lightly either, they could be the darkhorses of this one. Meralomas have produced some exciting wins in the past!! As always in sevens, one mistake can take you out of the game completely, as Burnaby Lake displayed so well in the Rowers Final against Lionheart Selects. Being crowned champions in that tournament has put a big BULLS EYE on their foreheads as they are now the team to beat. But they have been preparing well so Bring It ON!!
KAUKAUWA!!
After a two week layoff, it is time to put the boots back on, say goodbye to the girlfriend for a few hours and go do what rugby boys do on a Saturday - play some rugby. Sevens rugby!!
Practice was tight on Tuesday for the BLRC Lighthouse Team, but it came together on Thursday on the final run before kick-off. They're blooding in a few new faces as some of the suspected criminals from the previous week are attending the wedding of Katie Wells and the short Ausie with torn/worn runners - in Kamloops!! Congratulations you two!!
A total of 23 teams are taking part this year, and it should be fun checking out the opposition during pool play - whether your team is on the Premier, Social or women's division
That's right, we have women on this one showing off their moves and tackles.
Premier Mens should provide some hard competitive games as the Young Bucks would like to dethrone Burnaby Lake after their loss in the Rowers Sevens. Brit Lions have some Fijian boys on their squad so match No.21, at 12.20pm should provide some hard tackles and lots of flair. They'll be pitting their talents and experience against the boys in Barbarian Colors from Burnaby Lake.
Meralomas and the Scribblers should not be taken lightly either, they could be the darkhorses of this one. Meralomas have produced some exciting wins in the past!! As always in sevens, one mistake can take you out of the game completely, as Burnaby Lake displayed so well in the Rowers Final against Lionheart Selects. Being crowned champions in that tournament has put a big BULLS EYE on their foreheads as they are now the team to beat. But they have been preparing well so Bring It ON!!
KAUKAUWA!!
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