On Friday October 27th, the community centre was alive with fun, laughter and friendship as the local rugby community came together to acknowledge the Elk Valley Rugby Club’s successful 2023 season. Having completed their 10th season in the valley, the club had much to celebrate.
Club president, Min Merritt initiated proceedings by thanking the many people involved in making the rugby club such a vibrant place for players young and old. Merritt gave special recognition to all of the players who, as a team, had donated approximately 200 hours of volunteer time to community events including the security for the Ghostrider hockey games,
Many of the adult players double up as Rookie Rugby coaches giving up their Saturday mornings to pass on their knowledge and love of rugby to the youngsters in our community. Looking at the enthusiastic group of young rookies in attendance, it seems their coaches have done a great job. The club expressed their gratitude to all the coaches. Head Coach Jessie Watson was awarded Coach of the Year for the second successive season for her contributions to both adult and youth programs.
Youth Director, Tony McElwee stepped up to give out the Rookie Rugby awards. Most Improved and Coaches award went to the following: in the 3-5 age group, Ronan Gibson and Elsa Bartley; in the 6-9 age group, Katie Marlborough and Milana Walker and for the 9-12s Lachlan Ratay and Jonny Marlborough received the honours.
After a delicious meal the evening focused on the adult players. Women’s captain Dani Parenteau highlighted her team’s success in becoming the Saratoga Cup Champions (competition amongst all BC teams outside of Lower Mainland). Coleen O’Neill was awarded Player of the Year, Lavinia McElwee received the honour of Players’ Player for the second consecutive year, and Mia Foskin earned Rookie of the Year. Rexx Curran, the men’s captain had high praise for his team and awarded Men’s Rookie of the Year to Alex Nunn, Captain’s Clubman went to Roland Rioton La Fon, while Callum earned the Best and Fairest Award. Finally, Pete Dudman, the club secretary came froward to give a special honour to Matt Frost for his 10 years service to the club as treasurer. He has earned the club’s first ever Lifetime membership.
It was an evening of good times and laughter that is so often the result when a big family is brought together to share stories. If anyone is interested in joining this crazy wonderful group of people, you can find us at elkvalleyrugby.ca