2025 Gilbert Champions
MEET OUR 2025 GILBERT CHAMPIONS
These incredible folks are working to grow the game of rugby in Canada. We have a diverse group of athletes, coaches and community builders who are inspiring the next generation of rugby players. You can read each of their bios to learn about the clubs and programs they are part of. At Gilbert we truly believe that rugby makes your life better - through not only the teamwork, fitness and confidence grown by playing, but by the community and support that rugby is uniquely known for. We are so incredibly grateful and proud to have the opportunity to support these Champions and shine a light on the projects they are connected to. The roster below travels from Ontario to the West Coast, from the West Coast to the East Coast, and the East Coast over to Quebec.
Kainen England
UPEI Men's Rugby
Province: PEI
Clubs: UPEI Men's Rugby, PEI Abbies
Position: Second Row, 4
Kainen actively invites new people to try rugby, helping to grow the rugby community and create a more inclusive environment. He connects his athletic experiences with customers at Sport Chek, where he works, sparking interest in rugby among colleagues and customers. He also engages in conversations about rugby with both fellow players and non-players, fostering awareness and understanding of the sport.
Ryan Strong
Loyalists RFC
Instagram: NA
Province: New Brunswick
Club: Loyalists RFC
Position: Back 3, Scrum Half
Ryan Strong has shown exceptional dedication to growing the sport of rugby. He took on a leadership role in recruiting new players for his school’s rugby team, resulting in increased participation. To further promote the sport, Ryan created and presented recruiting videos at FHS. He consistently promotes rugby in Fredericton through conversations and social interaction, highlighting the positive aspects of the sport and fostering a stronger, more connected rugby community.
Jayden Tibbo-Desmond
Pictou County Rugby Club
Province: Nova Scotia
Home Club: Pictou County Rugby Club
Position: Wing
Jayden mentors young players at Northumberland High School, encouraging them to continue their rugby journey. He also coaches Pictou County's youth teams, fostering the next generation of rugby players. Keen to spread the community of rugby far and wide, Jayden shares Pictou County Rugby Club's posts and Rugby Nova Scotia posts (when involved) on social media, promoting the club and rugby opportunities in the community.
Ashton Weir
Nova Scotia Keltics
Instagram: Ashton_weir07
Province: Nova Scotia
Clubs: Northumberland Regional High School, Nova Scotia Keltics, U17 Atlantic Rock
Position: 13, Winger
Ashton Weir is a true ambassador for rugby. He consistently shares his enthusiasm for the sport with friends and family, sparking interest and conversations. Recognizing the importance of growth, he actively encourages those unfamiliar with rugby to try it out. Ashton also leverages his Instagram account to document his rugby journey, sharing experiences and accomplishments to inspire others and highlight the positive aspects of the sport.
ONTARIO
Logan De Verteuil
St. Lawrence Surge, Kingston Panthers
Instagram:@surgemensrugby
Province: Ontario
Clubs: St. Lawrence Surge, Kingston Panthers
Position: Scrum-half
Logan De Verteuil is an essential member of the Surge Men's Rugby team, taking on several key responsibilities. He manages the team's Instagram account, ensuring engaging content and promotion. Logan also organizes the annual Surge rugby Movember bake sale, a significant event for the team. Furthermore, he actively participates in yearly recruitment drives to foster the sport's growth. Logan also leads the yearly residence move at St. Lawrence, facilitating connections among new students and attracting more spectators to the games.
Jamie Lafrance
Ottawa Irish Rugby Club, Cairine Wilson Secondary School
Instagram:NA
Province: Ontario
Clubs: Ottawa Irish Rugby Club, Cairine Wilson Secondary School
Position: Coach/President
Jamie Lafrance's dedication to rugby is evident in his multifaceted involvement. He currently serves as President of the Ottawa Irish Rugby Club, and his commitment extends to coaching the Cairine Wilson Secondary School team and conducting clinics at local schools. He also volunteers his time at Twin Elm Rugby Park and manages the club's social media presence, creating content and promoting "Try Rugby" events to expand the sport's reach.
Teresa Balestra
Ottawa Irish
Instagram: NA
Province: Ontario
Clubs: Ottawa Irish
Position: Prop/Flanker
Teresa Balestra is a dedicated rugby player for the Ottawa Irish, representing her club, school, and province with pride. A versatile athlete, she excels as both a prop and a flanker. For Teresa, rugby is more than just a sport; it's a way of life that has instilled values of teamwork, resilience, and community. Inspired by her friend Ainsley to start playing, Teresa's rugby journey has shaped her into a resilient and determined individual. She actively contributes to the rugby community by sharing her experiences and encouraging others to embrace the sport's values.
Ronin Schultz
Lanark Highlanders
Instagram: NA
Province: Ontario
Club: Lanark Highlanders
Position: Scrum Half
Ronin Schultz, a scrum half for the Lanark Highlanders, is passionate about the rugby community and the camaraderie it fosters. Introduced to the sport by his friend Nate Phillips, Ronin's rugby journey includes playing at Algonquin College and representing his province in 7s tournaments. He's committed to giving back to the sport by helping younger players develop their skills and passion for the game. Ronin shares his rugby experiences and promotes the sport through social media, connecting with both his local rugby community and those who may be new to the sport.
Taylor Weatherall
Markham Irish Canadian Rugby Club, Seneca Sting
Instagram: @tayweatherall3
Province: Ontario
Clubs: Markham Irish Canadian Rugby Club, Seneca Sting
Position: Center/Wing, Flyhalf/Center
Taylor Weatherall, a center/wing for the Markham Irish, found her love for rugby during her first year of high school and hasn't looked back since. She values the inclusive nature of rugby and the way it brings together people from all walks of life, regardless of their background or experience. Taylor is actively involved in coaching and promoting rugby within her community, sharing her passion for the sport and encouraging others to join. Her dedication to the sport and her community showcases her commitment to growing the game of rugby in Canada.
Sean Ryan
Closest Club Barrie RFC
Instagram: @sean_ryan_radio
Province: Ontario
Closest Club: Barrie
Position: Social Media Creator
Seán Ryan is a passionate rugby enthusiast and social media creator based in Midland, Ontario. With a deep love for the sport instilled by his father, Seán uses his platform to engage with and expand the rugby community. He actively shares content, promotes events, and fosters connections among fans, showcasing his dedication to growing the sport's reach. Seán's online presence and community-building efforts make him a valuable contributor to the Canadian rugby landscape.
Scotty Lang
York University Men / Mississauga Blues
Instagram: @purplefriedpickles, @mississaugabluesrfc, @yorklionsrugby
Province: Ontario
Clubs: York University Men / Mississauga Blues
Position: Coach
Scotty is the Head Coach of the York Lions Men's program and Director of Rugby and Senior Men's Head Coach for the Mississauga Blues. A dedicated member of the Mississauga Blues RFC, Scotty is a true team player who values the friendships and connections formed through rugby. He's inspired by the sport's ability to unite people from all walks of life and enjoys the physical and mental challenges it presents. Scotty actively contributes to his rugby community by sharing his experiences and promoting the sport's positive impact, both online and in person.
Matilda Boggs
Crusaders Rugby Club, Niagara Rugby Union
Instagram: NA
Province: Ontario
Club: Crusaders Rugby Club, Niagara Rugby Union
Position: 8, Inside Centre, and Flanker
Matilda Boggs, a scrum half for the Oakville Crusaders, is passionate about rugby's inclusive and empowering environment. She makes the Crusaders more accessible towards female players by presenting renovation plans to the city of Oakville, recruiting within the school for the team, and convincing school players to join the club.
Matilda speaks at council meetings, and is currently running a high school rugby team Instagram account, and setting up meetings/information sessions for new players.
Hunter Fraser
Burlington Centaurs, Laurier Women's Rugby
Instagram: @hunterfraser_
Province: Ontario
Clubs: Burlington Centaurs, Laurier Women's Rugby
Position: Prop, Lock, Flanker, 8-Man
Hunter Fraser is an enthusiastic participant and leader in the rugby world. She plays with senior women's teams in Burlington and Laurier and dedicates significant time to coaching. She leads the forwards for the U18 girls' team and has extensive experience coaching various age groups from 6 to 18. Hunter also values giving back to her community, regularly assisting her former high school. She's a strong advocate for rugby, frequently sharing her passion and experiences on her Instagram account and in conversations with almost everyone she encounters.
Charleigh Goldberg
Burlington Centaurs
Instagram: @charleighgoldberg
Province: Ontario
Club: Burlington Centaurs
Position: 9, 10
Charleigh Goldberg has a deep-rooted love for rugby, having played the sport since she was 7 years old. She currently competes for Wilfrid Laurier University Women's Varsity Rugby and is a dedicated member of the Burlington Centaurs. Charleigh is committed to increasing girls' participation in rugby, and she actively works towards this goal. She conducts introductory rugby sessions for elementary school students in the Halton District School Board and Halton Catholic District School Board. Charleigh also manages the Instagram and TikTok accounts for her university rugby team, effectively promoting the sport and her team's activities.
Alessandra (Aly) Staples
Barrie Rugby Club, Toronto Reds Rugby Club
Instagram: @staples_that_rugby_kid777
Province: Ontario
Clubs: Barrie Rugby Club, Toronto Reds Rugby Club
Position: Flanker, Fly Half, Lock
Aly Staples is committed to expanding the rugby community. She makes a conscious effort to introduce rugby to as many individuals as possible within her school environment. Furthermore, she is actively advocating for the establishment of a women's 7s rugby team at Georgian College, showcasing her dedication to the sport and its development. She consistently talks about the sport to anyone she encounters, actively encouraging them to get involved. To further spread her passion, Aly maintains an Instagram account dedicated to rugby promotion and proudly wears rugby merchandise, making herself approachable for questions and conversations about the sport.
Laura Armstrong
Balmy Beach Rugby Club (Ontario), Rainbow Griffins RFC (Ontario), Muddy York RFC (Ontario)
Instagram: @larmstrong_
Club: Balmy Beach Rugby Club (Ontario), Rainbow Griffins RFC (Ontario), Muddy York RFC (Ontario)
Province: Ontario
Role/Position: Forward, Scrum-Half
Laura is actively involved in the rugby community in Ontario, playing for multiple clubs: Balmy Beach Rugby Club in the Toronto Rugby Union, and the Rainbow Griffins RFC and Muddy York RFC, both of which promote inclusivity in rugby. She is passionate about growing the sport, especially within the queer community. Laura also takes on leadership roles, serving on the executive committee for the Rainbow Griffins RFC. Her dedication to the sport extends to coaching; she completed a Level 2 coaching course in 2024 and aspires to coach more in the future.
Michael Nixon
Fergus Highland Rugby Club
Instagram: NA
Club: Fergus Highland Rugby Club (Ontario)
Province: Ontario, currently playing in Scotland
Role/Position: Tight 5 Player
Michael's rugby journey has taken him from Ontario to Scotland, where he is currently playing. He actively contributes to his club, Fergus Highland Rugby Club, by participating in events and supporting younger teams. Michael is passionate about sharing his love for rugby and inspiring the next generation of players.
KINGS SIMEON
Scarborough Aces
Club: Scarborough Aces/ Tirf
Position: Fly-half/Full back/Prop
Province: Ontario
Kings is a high school student at George Vanier Secondary School in Toronto. He is passionate about rugby's intensity and drive. He was inspired to play by his mentors, Daniel Burton and Spencer Robinson, and his friend. Kings is involved in both playing and mentoring in rugby, taking an active role in his school's rugby program. He is the captain of his high school rugby 7s team and is active in sharing his love for rugby with others.
Nicholas Rakobowchuk
Ottawa Ospreys RFC, Humber Hawks
Instagram: @nick.r1347
Clubs: Ottawa Ospreys RFC, Humber Hawks
Province: Ontario
Role/Position: Hooker, Match Official
Nicholas is a dedicated player for both the Ottawa Ospreys RFC and the Humber Hawks. He also serves as a first-year match official, contributing to the game's growth and safety. His rugby journey began in 6th grade, sparked by his teacher's inspiration, and he deeply values the sense of community that rugby fosters.
Jessica Malcolm
Peterborough Pagans, Brock University
Instagram: @jessica_malcolm
Clubs: Peterborough Pagans, Brock University
Province: Ontario
Role/Position: Referee, Coach
Jessica's rugby career transitioned from player to referee and coach due to an injury. She is passionate about rugby's inclusivity and strong sense of community. Currently pursuing a Master's in Sport Psychology, she actively supports the Brock women's rugby team and is involved in community programs, including coaching and mentoring young female athletes.
Luca Iacovelli
Caledon Cavaliers
Instagram: @luca.iacovelli
Province: Ontario
Club: Caledon Cavaliers
Position: Referee
Luca is an exceptional young rugby referee whose dedication to the sport and community has made a significant impact. Luca has been involved in various roles, including Lead Coach, Referee, and Club Educator with the Caledon Cavaliers Rugby Club.
In his three years as a referee, Luca has earned the respect of players and coaches alike, thanks to his attention to detail and strong game management skills. He is passionate about mentoring younger players and promoting the values of teamwork and sportsmanship.
As he prepares to receive this award, Luca's bright future in rugby is evident, and his commitment to the game promises to inspire many more.
Alix Bellamare
Winnipeg Wasps
Instagram: NA
Club: Winnipeg Wasps
Province: Manitoba
Role/Position: Scrum-half, Coach, Referee
Alix Bellamare is a highly valued member of the Manitoba rugby community. She's a key player for the Manitoba senior women's provincial team and the Winnipeg Wasps, showcasing her skills and dedication on the field. Furthermore, Alix generously gives back to the sport by coaching and refereeing. Her commitment extends to administration as well, as she actively participates in the Rugby Manitoba committee, helping to shape and support the future of rugby in the province.
Tylie Fraser
Winnipeg Wasps
Instagram: @Fras_tylie
Club: Winnipeg Wasps (Manitoba), Rugby Manitoba (Manitoba), MacDowell Academy (Manitoba)
Province: Manitoba
Role/Position: Flanker, 8 (15s), Prop, Hooker (7s)
Tylie is a passionate and dedicated rugby player from Manitoba, actively involved with the Winnipeg Wasps, Rugby Manitoba, and the MacDowell Academy. She has represented her province and country in various tournaments, with her most memorable experience being the New Zealand Global Youth 7s. Tylie's love for rugby stems from its strong sense of community and the values it instills. Inspired by her parents, who shared their own rugby experiences, she is committed to promoting the sport to young girls. Tylie actively participates in rugby development by assisting with Multi Sport days, where she introduces young girls to the fundamentals of rugby. She is also pursuing her Level 1 coaching certification to further contribute to the growth of junior rugby in Manitoba. Tylie's passion for rugby extends beyond playing; she actively shares her experiences and love for the game on social media platforms like Instagram and Facebook, inspiring others to get involved in the sport.
DAVE HUGHES
Regina Minor Rugby, Campion Grads RFC, Cariboo Old Boys RFC, Williams Lake Rustlers RFC
Instagram: @saskrugbydad
Club: Regina Minor Rugby, Campion Grads RFC, Cariboo Old Boys RFC, Williams Lake Rustlers RFC
Position: Coach, Hooker, Tight Head
Province: Saskatchewan
Dave has been involved in rugby for over 35 years as a player and 31 years as a coach. He values the camaraderie and sense of family in the rugby community. His mentors, Paul "Father" Carnes and Todd Pritchard, were his early coaches. Dave is deeply involved in the Regina rugby community, serving as the President of Regina Minor Rugby and coaching multiple teams. He also leverages social media to connect with and inspire others in the rugby community.
JAMIE BRAR
University of Saskatchewan Rugby Team
Instagram: NA
Club: University of Saskatchewan Rugby Team
Position: Flyhalf
Province: Saskatchewan
Jamie is a 20-year-old Health Studies student at the University of Saskatchewan. His brother inspired him to get involved in rugby. He is actively involved in his community, coaching and volunteering for various rugby programs, and introducing the sport to younger generations through career fairs. Jamie co-founded a non-profit, More than Words, which raises money for anti-hate awareness, demonstrating his commitment to using his platform to make a positive impact.
Stephen Kinasevich
Strathcona Druids RFC
Instagram: NA
Club: Strathcona Druids RFC
Province: Alberta
Role/Position: Referee
Stephen Kinasevich is recognized as a highly effective and respected referee within the Alberta rugby community. His hallmark qualities include impartiality, consistent decision-making, and the ability to maintain a calm and controlled atmosphere throughout matches.
Bree Walker
University of Calgary Dinos
Instagram: @Bree.walker6
Club: University of Calgary Dinos (Alberta)
Province: Manitoba, currently playing in Alberta
Role/Position: Inside/Outside Centre, Wing
Bree's rugby journey began in Manitoba, where she faced challenges due to limited resources and opportunities. Despite these obstacles, she captained her high school team to four provincial titles and participated in the U18 Canada West camp. Now playing rugby at the University of Calgary, Bree continues to develop her skills while giving back to the rugby community. She plans to represent Manitoba on the U19 team and coach the U17 boys' provincial team. Bree is also actively involved in coaching and mentoring young players at her high school, sharing her knowledge and passion for the sport.
MATT SQUIRES
Calgary Knights RFC, Calgary Hornets, UofC Dinos
Instagram: @amplifyrugby
Club: Calgary Knights RFC, Calgary Hornets, UofC Dinos
Position: Centre, Wing & Flyhalf
Province: Calgary
Matt loves coaching Rugby Canada youth. His first rugby mentor was Gerry Audia. Matt is deeply involved in the Alberta rugby community as a coach at various levels and actively promotes rugby through social media. He is involved with multiple sports organizations in Calgary, using his social media expertise to raise awareness and support for these community programs.
STEPHANIE HOVDESTAD
University of Alberta Pandas/Edmonton Leprechaun Tigers RFC
Instagram: NA
Club: University of Alberta Pandas/Edmonton Leprechaun Tigers RFC
Province: Alberta
Position: Scrumhalf
Stephanie is passionate about rugby's sense of community. She is committed to making rugby accessible and inclusive for all, especially for those who may have limited opportunities. Stephanie actively promotes rugby using various platforms and serves as a role model for young girls in rugby, working to break down barriers and encourage participation.
KEN MATHESON
Instagram: NA
Club: Crowther Memorial Junior High Rugby Team
Province: Alberta
Role/Position: Assistant Coach, Referee
Ken Matheson demonstrates a strong passion for building a rugby community in Strathmore, Alberta. He actively engages with junior high students, introducing them to the sport and emphasizing the values of skill development, teamwork, and respect. In addition to his work with young players, Ken contributes to the rugby environment by serving as a referee, ensuring that games are conducted in a safe and fair manner.
NICK MCAULEY
University of Calgary Dino’s, Calgary Mavericks Classics
Instagram: NA
Club: University of Calgary Dino’s, Calgary Mavericks Classics
Province: Alberta
Role/Position: Coach, Tight Head
Nick McAuley demonstrates a strong commitment to advancing rugby in Calgary, Alberta. He dedicates his time to coaching at the university level, where he prioritizes the development of foundational skills and the sharing of his rugby expertise. In addition, Nick organizes the Mavericks Classics team, an initiative that provides valuable playing opportunities for individuals and cultivates a strong sense of camaraderie within the local rugby community.
CAROLINE LESLIE
St. Albert Rugby Football Club
Instagram: @caroline.lesliee, @caroline_rugbyacc
Club: St. Albert Rugby Football Club, Edmonton Gold Team
Province: Alberta
Role/Position: Player (Hybrid Backs/Forwards), U7 Coach
Caroline Leslie is a dynamic member of the Alberta rugby community, with a focus on promotion, coaching, and officiating. She consistently encourages friends and family to join the sport, helping to expand its reach. Caroline is a dedicated U7 coach, imparting her knowledge and passion to young players. Her commitment to rugby is further demonstrated by her role as a referee, ensuring that games are played fairly and efficiently.
BRIDGET JOLLY
Kelowna Crows
Instagram; @bridgetjolly, @kra_rugby, @womenssportssuo
Province: BC
Club: Kelowna Crows, Kelowna Rugby Association
Role/Position: Full Back, Women's Rugby Association Development
Bridget is dedicated to expanding women's rugby in the Okanagan Valley, British Columbia. She co-founded the Kelowna Rugby Association, providing accessible playing opportunities for women of all levels. She also promotes women's sports through a university club, aiming to break down barriers and encourage participation.
JAMES CANAVAN
Kelowna Crows, Priest Valley Vicars
Instagram: NA
Province: BC
Club: Kelowna Crows, Priest Valley Vicars
Role/Position: Player (8), Coach, Referee
James actively contributes to the rugby community in Kelowna, British Columbia, as a player, coach, and referee. He has volunteered with youth programs, helped schools establish rugby teams, and officiates at high-level tournaments. He also serves on the Board of Directors for the CMRU, supporting the sport's administrative development.
ALEXANDRA SCHLOSSER
Trail RFC
Instagram: @TrailRFC
Province: BC
Club: Trail RFC
Role/Position: Prop, Women's Director
Alexandra is a driving force behind the Trail RFC in interior British Columbia. On the board of directors and as the Women's Director, she's not only grown the women's team but also actively organizes co-ed rugby opportunities, ensuring a welcoming environment for players of all skill levels to participate and enjoy the sport.
SENIROSA LUCAS-BATIBASAGA
Langley Rugby Club
Instagram: @Senirosabati_Rugby
Province: BC
Club: Langley Rugby Club
Position: Hooker, Center
Senirosa has played rugby since age 5 and is currently in the DW Poppy Rugby Academy. Her father, a former rugby player and coach, is her biggest inspiration. She's passionate about playing for the Fijian women's national team and making her family proud. Senirosa is also an assistant coach for the Langley Rugby Club mini program and actively volunteers for her club.
TORIN BROOKS
Cowichan Rugby Club
Instagram: @torin.brooks
Clubs: Cowichan Rugby Club, Thunder Rugby, Quw'utsun Secondary School, MacDowell Island Academy
Province: BC
Positions: Scrum half, Fly half, Hook, Centre, Wing (7s), Utility back, Flank (15s)
Torin Brooks is a dynamic figure in the rugby world, combining international playing experience with a commitment to coaching and volunteering. He has recently traveled to four countries—the US, Germany, Mexico, and New Zealand—to pursue his passion for rugby. Torin is a Level 1 referee who is particularly enthusiastic about coaching younger players. He dedicates his time to volunteering with Thunder Rugby and Grassroots Rugby, where he focuses on sharing his rugby knowledge and contributing to the growth of the game at the grassroots level.
SASKIA MORTON
Rapids Rugby
Instagram: NA
Province: BC
Clubs: Rapids Rugby, CV Kickers, Highland Secondary School, North Island Tsunami
Positions: Hooker, Prop, Flanker
Saskia Morton's journey in rugby has been deeply influenced by her father, a seasoned player and coach. She has achieved success as a provincial champion and is committed to giving back to the sport. Saskia coaches grassroots non-contact rugby, introducing the game to young players. Additionally, she is leveraging her high school Capstone project to provide rugby instruction to new participants and is currently undertaking fundraising efforts to support a rugby trip to Scotland, highlighting her enthusiasm and proactive approach to her development in the sport.
RAFIELLE BARRACK
Cowichan Piggies
Instagram: NA
Province: BC
Club: Cowichan Piggies
Positions: Fullback (15s), Centre, Hook (7s)
Rafielle Barrack's rugby experience spans continents and roles. Beginning her career at age 9 in Abu Dhabi, she furthered her development at the MacDowell Academy. Rafielle is driven by a passion for giving back to the rugby community, which she does through mentoring younger players and officiating as a Level 1 referee. Additionally, she takes on a leadership position as the captain of her school's girls rugby team, showcasing her dedication and multifaceted involvement in the sport.
Fernando Garcia
Rugby Ciencias
Instagram: @fernandoreferee
Province: Jalisco, Mexico
Club: Rugby Ciencias
Role/Position: International Referee
Fernando Garcia's connection to rugby spans several roles and continents. His journey began as a college player in Mexico, leading him to pursue a career as a match official. Fernando has proudly represented Mexico on the international stage and currently serves as a referee for both Rugby Mexico and Major League Rugby (MLR). In addition to his refereeing duties, he is dedicated to developing the next generation of rugby players as a coach at Instituto de Ciencias, where he also teaches high school history, demonstrating his deep commitment to both education and the sport.