In a tense battle against the Nanaimo Hornets, the Comox Valley Kickers women鈥檚 rugby team emerged victorious with a narrow 20-15 win, securing the prestigious Gudmundseth Shield.
Despite the challenging weather conditions of rain and mud, the Kickers displayed resilience, with Ava Perkins, Cali McKay, and Hazel Bice scoring critical tries, including a dramatic winning try on the last play of the game.
This is the first time the Kickers women have held the Gudmundseth Shield. They will retain it until another Vancouver Island Rugby Union team defeats the Kickers on their home turf. The Hornets had held the Gudmundseth Shield since November 2022.
Coach JB Nikkel lauded the team鈥檚 defensive prowess.
鈥淒efence was definitely our game,鈥� he said. 鈥淒espite the soggy conditions, our players remained disciplined and focused, ensuring our defensive line held strong.鈥�
He also acknowledged the efforts of the backline, though hampered by the weather, in making significant runs.
Looking forward, Nikkel emphasized the importance of maintaining momentum.
With this victory, we turn our focus to the next challenges ahead.鈥�
The Kickers women鈥檚 team has secured home-field advantage for the first round of playoffs, scheduled for April 20 at Cumberland Village Park.
Men鈥檚 team extends winning streak to six games
In a hard-fought contest against Burnaby Lake Rugby Club, the Comox Valley Kickers men鈥檚 rugby team emerged triumphant with a 34-17 win in damp conditions.
Trailing 17-15 at halftime, the Kickers rallied and pulled ahead in the second half. Tries were scored by Jimmy Brazier, Ben Bekk, Devon Moore, Craig Rice, and Riley Gaudet. Kai Mills added six points with three successful converts.
Coach Dan Mills praised the opponents after the game
鈥淐ongratulations to Burnaby Lake Rugby Club for putting up a hard fight and being gracious hosts.鈥�
He credited the Kickers鈥� win to their structured gameplay, honed throughout the season.
Highlighting a standout performance, Mills commended Riley Gaudet for his impact late in the game, noting his crucial try that sealed the victory.
鈥淭he Kickers have clinched a playoff spot, but home-field advantage in the first round is still up for grabs,鈥� added Mills.
Regular readers may have noticed the team wearing new jerseys this game. The Kickers thank Courtenay Nissan, RLR Law, The Buddery House and The Beaufort Pub for their gracious sponsorship, which made these jerseys possible.
Both teams have their final regular season games on April 6t The Women will be on the road playing Cowichan Rugby Football Club, kicking off at 11:15 a.m. The men will be playing at home at Cumberland Village Park against Capilano with Kickoff at 12:45 p.m.
Play with us!
The Comox Valley Kickers RFC is continually recruiting players. No experience is necessary. Practices are held Tuesdays and Thursdays from 6:30 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at Cumberland Village Park. Everyone welcome. No experience is necessary. For more information, please visit comoxvalleyrugby.ca.
