Two Sechelt rugby players took to the field on July 18 for the annual Rugby Classics Over 30 game, hosted this year in San Jose, Calif.
Cousins Tyrel Brackett and John Allen represented Canada Classics Over 30 National Team in an annual friendly match against the United States.
“It was really a big honour to get to play and represent the nation at that level,” Brackett said.
Canada, led by both Brackett and Allen, held the match within reach until the final minutes. However, Team Canada eventually succumbed to heavy pressure from the U.S. side. The U.S. won 45-25.
“It was too bad we lost 45-25, but that’s the way it goes,” Brackett said. “I really enjoyed it, though – it was a lot of fun.”
Team Canada went down three tries early in the game, but they were held together with scoring from both Brackett and Allen at one try each. A try is worth five points in rugby.
Brackett has been a competitive rugby player since Grade 8 in Chatelech Secondary. He also played in Victoria for James Bay Rugby Club.
Selection to play on Team Canada is based on invitation.
“They basically take retired national team players or retired accomplished rugby players who are over 30,” Brackett said. “It’s not a tryout basis, you just get invited. So the squad changes every year.”
Brackett’s former coach is the coach of the over 30s national team.
“He just knew me and knew I could play at that level,” Brackett said.
