Canadian team finishes fourth at World University Championships
Despite getting off to a "somewhat challenging journey" to Portugal - which involved much dreaded flight changes - the women's Canadian rugby sevens team did not let it stop them from getting off to an incredible start at the World University Rugby Sevens Championship in Oporto, Portugal, from July 21 to July 24, 2010.
Team Canada, led by Gee-Gees head coach Suzanne Chaulk, remained undefeated after all four round robin matches and went on to finish just shy of a silver medal, placing fourth overall.
Their first win came against Guam on Wednesday, July 21, by a score of 55-0. "Our opponents may have been small in physical stature, but they were absolutely fearless on the field and played with a great deal of heart," noted Chaulk.
Their second match was not as easily won, as they faced Italy the following day. After Italy scored an early try, Team Canada spent the remainder of the first half on their heels. "We pulled it out in the end thanks in great part to the leadership and skill of Ghislaine Landry, CIS Player of the Year in both 2007 and 2008," said Chaulk. They went on to defeat Italy, 19-12.
Friday the team continued to demonstrate their strength and skill, capturing their final two games of the round robin. They overcame Ukraine 21-5 in the morning and Portugal 34-7 later that evening.
In the final day of competition, Team Canada faced their first loss of the championship, as they fell 10-0 to Russia in the semi-finals and would have to compete in the bronze medal game. They faced Portugal once again, but this time they were not as successful, surrendering the silver medal in 0-5 loss to finish fourth.
Chaulk said that Gee-Gee players Natasha Watcham-Roy and Janine MacKay adapted themselves quite well over the course of the championships.
"Natasha played the first match in which she scored three tries. Both her and Janine subbed into the second half of the match against Italy and made a very positive impact when they did. Natasha started Friday's match against Ukraine and Janine subbed in at the half and gave a very strong performance."
Chaulk added that she was not only pleased with the competition aspect of the championships, but she was also very impressed with the hospitality and kindness of their hosts, who made their stay a very positive experience.
"The organizing committee and hotel staff were nothing short of amazing; over and above the exceptional service and organization, the people themselves were warm and welcoming which made the lives of the athletes so much easier."
