2023 Men's Rugby Season Preview
RUGBY IS BACK!
This season will mark a significant milestone as Conestoga has re-launched the Men's Rugby program, a revival eagerly awaited since the pandemic. The Athletics Department prioritized bringing the program back stronger than ever, focusing on sustainability and safety. The team has been training and developing a strong team culture rooted in the team’s understanding of their past accomplishments and aspirations for future success.
The Conestoga Men's Rugby team starts their journey on the road, where they face Georgian Collage on September 15th. This will be a challenging start for a new team that will test team unity right from the get-go. Crucially, this initial game will offer valuable insight into the team's dynamics and the routines that will keep them at their best.
Roster Updates
Building a full roster from the ground up, the team has seen emerging leaders like Callum O'Neil, a trades student commuting from Ingersoll. He brings provincial and national experience and embodies the spirit of rugby. And Daniel Dangond Salcedo, an on-field strategist who leads by example and has experience playing at a high level in Colombia.
Additionally, the team has recruited a roster of big players to form a roster with some notable size. The coaching staff has focused on recruiting from local schools to build bridges and a sustainable program. Three notable recruits are Huston Kaufman, a player with a lot of raw talent and OFFSSA experience, Joshpreet Brar, a disciplined and well-rounded athlete from Saltfleet HS, who will be instrumental in setting the tone for the team, and Tarik Pacha, who has proven to be a physical force on the pitch. The team has a full lineup of impressive players who are poised to leave their mark as they bring their unique skills to the team.
Coach's Perspective
The Condors Men's Rugby season's purpose extends beyond victories; it's about making strides in building a thriving program. Success goes hand-in-hand with cultivating a positive college culture, both on and off the field, by attracting the right individuals and creating a distinct team brand. Head Coach Josh Van Horne aims to foster a sense of pride that transcends individual accomplishments and extends into the classroom. They want to see their players driven by a collective purpose and playing for something greater than themselves.
Coach Van Horne believes the foundation of the team's success is laid off the field. Staying healthy and fit, as well as utilizing college support services and athletic therapy, will be instrumental. The entire team is committed to getting better every day, both on and off the field of play.
Home Opener
Join us for the first home game at Bill Struck Filed – Riverside Park Cambridge on September 29th at 7:00 PM against The Seneca Sting. To see the full schedule, click here. Stay connected and be part of the excitement by following us on Instagram @CC_Condors.