There were passes, kicks, relay races, plenty of cheering and a whole lot of smiles as Ottawa Catholic School Board (OCSB) students took to the field at Carleton University for the annual Rugby CAN! Jamboree.
More than 150 students from eight OCSB schools participated in this year’s event, supported by approximately 50 school staff members and a dedicated team of community volunteers. It was a chance to try something new, learn a few rugby skills and enjoy a day of sport alongside friends, teammates and some pretty impressive rugby players.
And the best part? Everyone got to be part of the action.
Rugby for Everyone
The Canadian Jax are Canada’s first inclusive rugby team, creating opportunities for athletes of all abilities to experience the game in a supportive, non-contact environment. Beyond the jamboree, the club offers indoor and outdoor programs throughout the year, welcoming athletes from across the community to learn new skills, build connections and enjoy rugby.
Students from St. Peter, Holy Trinity, Frank Ryan, St. Mark, St. Francis Xavier, Notre Dame, Lester B. Pearson and St. Patrick joined in the fun, moving through a variety of skill stations led by coaches and volunteers.
There were passing drills, kicking challenges, relay races, target practice and rugby-inspired games. Students also took part in ultimate rugby, circle passing and over-and-under relays, with another activity taking place inside Carleton’s Ravens’ Nest.
Each station offered something different, giving students the chance to learn at their own pace, practice new skills and celebrate their accomplishments.
And there was no shortage of encouragement. Whether someone was trying a new skill or completing a challenge, teammates and volunteers were ready with a cheer.
As LeeAnn Napiorkowski, Inclusion Resource Teacher at St. Peter High School and coordinator of the event, explained, the jamboree reflects what makes rugby such a special sport:
“This event highlights everything that is beautiful about rugby. Our sport is truly inclusive. If you are new to the game, we will help you learn. If you need support on the pitch, we will find a way to help you succeed. Our motto is ‘Rugby Is For Everyone!’”
Some Pretty Special Teammates
Students weren’t the only athletes on the field.
Members of Carleton University’s men’s and women’s varsity rugby teams spent the day coaching, demonstrating skills, participating in activities, and cheering students on. They were joined by members of teams from the Eastern Ontario Rugby Union, whose support helped create a fun, welcoming and inclusive experience for everyone.
St. Peter’s leadership and media arts students worked together with educational assistants and inclusion teachers to create an engaging experience for students. Leadership students partnered with university athletes to help teach rugby skills, while media arts students captured photos and videos, preserving the special moments and memories made throughout the day.
Adding to the excitement were representatives from Rugby Canada, including Al Charron and Sherri Sparling, former captains of Canada’s men’s and women’s national teams.
Imagine learning a new sport with someone who has represented Canada, cheering you on!
For many students, having these experienced athletes take the time to play alongside them was a highlight of the day.
Two of the Rugby Canada representatives had an especially meaningful connection to the event. Connor Millenor and Rachel McCallan are both St. Peter High School graduates who followed their passion for rugby into careers with Rugby Canada. Their journeys offered students a wonderful example of how a love of sport can open doors to new opportunities.
A Tradition Worth Continuing
The Rugby CAN! Jamboree began in 2016 when Carleton University, Rugby Canada and students and staff from six OCSB high schools came together to introduce students to the sport.
This year marked 10 years since the creation of the Inclusive Rugby Jamboree, celebrating a decade of bringing students, educators, athletes and community partners together through sport.
Reflecting on the milestone, Napiorkowski shared what makes the event so meaningful:
“I am most proud of how our community rallies together to help our OCSB athletes access the sport of rugby. Our volunteers love our sport and they also love sharing it with our athletes at the jamboree.”
The event’s continued success is made possible through the commitment of Carleton University Athletics, the Carleton Ravens women’s and men’s rugby teams, Rugby Canada, the Eastern Ontario Rugby Union, the Canadian Jax Unified Rugby Club and dedicated OCSB students and staff. Together, they help create an environment where every participant has the opportunity to learn and connect.
This year’s event was especially exciting, with Rugby Canada representatives joining students at Carleton just days before Canada’s match against England at TD Place. With England ranked No. 1 in the world and Canada ranked No. 3, the upcoming match offered an exciting opportunity for students to see the sport at its highest level!
From international athletes to students picking up a rugby ball for the first time, everyone shared the same field and the same love of the game.
More Than a Game
For some students, the highlight may have been learning to kick a rugby ball. For others, it might have been completing a relay, meeting a varsity athlete or simply sharing a laugh with friends.
But the real success of the day wasn’t measured in points scored or skills mastered.
It was in the encouragement students gave one another, the excitement of trying something new and the smiles that came with being included.
It’s also a wonderful example of our OCSB Spiritual Theme, Nourish New Beginnings. Sometimes a new beginning is as simple as discovering something you enjoy, finding the confidence to give it a try or realizing that there’s a place for you on the team.
At the Rugby CAN! Jamboree, students didn’t just learn about rugby.
They experienced what it means to belong. And everyone got to play!
