The Merritt Barbarians’ senior men’s rugby club has begun practices in preparation for their second full season of third-division play in the Okanagan Rugby League. The team’s first game is scheduled for Sunday, April 22 in Vernon.
“We’re hoping to improve upon our 2-4 record from last year,” stated club spokesperson Nathan Brigden.
“Lots of people are committed to playing for the Barbarians,” added Brigden, “but we’d be happy to have any new players. Interested individuals don’t need to be very good at the game, or even have played before.”
Currently, the Barbarians are holding practices on Tuesday and Thursday nights, at 6 p.m., at the Central Elementary School playing fields.
“People shouldn’t feel intimidated,” said Brigden with respect to potential new recruits. “The focus of our practices is on having fun and promoting the game.”
Also taking part in Barbarians’ practices right now are a large group of players from the Merritt Secondary School’s senior boys’ rugby team. The present job action by teachers in the province has resulted in a shutdown of nearly all extra-curriculuar activities including sports teams.
“To have the high school rugby season cancelled was a little disappointing,” stated Brigden who, along with Ryan Reid (both non-teachers) were the coaches of the MSS senior boys’ squad. “In light of the excellent season most of those players had as juniors last year, we didn’t want to see those kids lose the opportunity to continue playing rugby.”
Brigden is optimistic that other area communities like Kamloops and Vernon will also put together under-19 club teams.
“Best case scenario, we’ll be able to put together a league. Worst case scenario, we have a team here in Merritt and we organize some exhibition games.”
Brigden concluded, “It’s in our best interests to help and support the young, high-school-aged players. it’s also part of our mandate to help grow the sport.”
