NEWS: Georgia Stewart returns to Gee-Gees women’s rugby for fifth season

Gee-Gees women's rugby will have a familiar face on the field for the 2022 season.

Georgia Stewart is slated to return to the program for her fifth and final year of eligibility. A flanker, Stewart suited up for the Gee-Gees from 2016 through 2020, serving as a member of the leadership group in 2019 and 2020.

"I am excited about having the opportunity to play with my teammates for one more year and work towards winning a gold medal at Nationals," said Stewart, who is starting a Master of Science in the Interdisciplinary Health Sciences program.

"Georgia brings so much effort and a sense of calm as well," said Gee-Gees head coach Jen Boyd. "She's a great human and a great rugby player. We're really excited to have her leadership back." 

The Peterborough, Ont., product was set to play her final season in 2020, but the rugby season was cancelled due to COVID-19. Stewart finished her bachelor's degree in Health Sciences in early 2021.

Despite not suiting up for matches, the women's rugby program was busy off the field during the 2020 campaign. Stewart credits that season as one of the most important of her career.

"That year allowed us to connect in ways that we otherwise wouldn't have," said Stewart, who was joined on the leadership group by Taylor Donato, Maddy Grant, Anna Dodge and Claire Gallagher. "I believe that was a pivotal year for the program as it gave us time to focus on issues that were much bigger than the sport itself.

"I know I will continue to learn and grow from my teammates, coaching staff and alumni of this program. However, I am very proud of the work our team has done and what we stand for."

Stewart spent the past year working at a local hospital in Peterborough. Having remained close with a number of her teammates from prior seasons, she followed the Gee-Gees run to the 2021 U SPORTS National Championship closely.

"I watched as many home games as I could," said Stewart. "Once you've been a part of this program, it is something that you continue to follow. I know after my final season, I will continue to support and cheer on the Gee-Gees."

The graduate of Thomas A. Stewart Secondary School has enjoyed a decorated career in Garnet and Grey. A member of the 2017 National Championship squad, she won four RSEQ Championships in four seasons with the team, in addition to being named to the conference's Second All-Star Team in 2017. Stewart is also a three-time U SPORTS Academic All-Canadian.

Ottawa opens their RSEQ regular season on the road against the Concordia Stingers on Sept. 4 and play their home opener against the Montreal Carabins on Sept. 10. Tickets are on sale at tickets.geegees.ca.