The rise of rugby in southeastern Manitoba is gaining momentum as Team Canada prepares for the finals at the Women’s World Rugby Championship.

Local programs such as the Eastman Warriors Rugby Club, along with high school teams in Niverville and at Steinbach Regional Secondary School, are seeing steady growth in interest. That excitement is expected to build further this weekend when Canadian women face England for the championship.

Inspiration for young athletes

Isi Masi of Eastman Warriors Rugby says the national team’s success is inspiring young players across the country, including in the southeast.

“I think it’s a really big deal, especially for the ones that are playing right now, to see the level we can compete in nationally,” Masi said. “Hopefully it gives excitement to young g

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