The Gibsons Pigs are hoping to inject a little life into their dwindling rugby program with a fresh start to the over-40 men's team and the creation of a new women's team.
"At the end of the day, we just all want to play rugby," said Pigs' spokesman John Rainer. "It really started in August last year when the Legends came up from Vancouver for a game. We have a return game set for March 28 in Vancouver at Connaught Park, so we need to get the boys out for a bit of a run and get prepared."
That preparation has come in the form of regular practice sessions Thursday nights at 6:30 p.m. at Maryanne West Field.
"We're playing Thursday night buggers [touch rugby] to get in shape and ready to play," Rainer added. "Everyone is welcome to come out, no matter what playing level. The important thing is we just need some guys to come out on a consistent basis for a run."
Practice sessions go to around 8 p.m. when the guys head back to the clubhouse for refreshments.
"Buggers, burgers and beer on the menu," Rainer said with a laugh. "It's all about keeping the spirit going. It's the greatest game on the planet."
While the guys have been practising, a couple of female players are also getting in on the fun.
Shauna Allan, a ex-Burnaby Lake premier player who just recently moved the Coast, and Stephanie Lodewijk, an ex-Gibsons Pigs mini and junior rugby player, are keen on starting a women's team.
"Any level of player 18 and over is invited to come out," said Allan. "I'm new to the Coast, but I think it's possible to start a women's team. There is a huge soccer population here, so I think there could be a lot of interest from players wanting to play both."
Rainer said it would be a great boost to the club and rugby in general to see a women's team created.
"Both Shauna and Stephanie are committed and enthusiastic and that's fantastic to see," Rainer said. "We've been having some trouble with numbers. Hopefully we can get some women rugby players out and give another option for sports enthusiasts on the Coast."
Women players wanting more information can contact Allan at 778-839-4086.
