Women’s sports in Canada have experienced significant growth in recent years. Among the standout teams globally is Canada’s women’s rugby team, under the guidance of French head coach Kévin Rouet. This team, which won silver at the World Cup in the 15-player format, is set to face England in two matches in Toronto on October 17 and Ottawa on October 24.
England’s women’s rugby team, ranked first globally, defeated Canada in the 2025 Women’s Rugby World Cup final. The upcoming match in Toronto is anticipated to set a new attendance record for a rugby game in North America.
The Canadian team features top talent, including captain Sophie de Goede, named 2025 Rugby Player of the Year, and Olivia Apps, who earned the Player of the Season award from Premiership Women’s Rugby. Lizzie “Gibby” Gibson, aged 25, will be making her debut on Canadian soil with the team.
Gibson expressed a strong desire for Canada to prove itself against England after their loss, emphasizing the team’s hunger to become the world’s best. Although Canada has never defeated England, they recently tied in the WXV Global Series in September.
The players, including Gibson and Taylor Perry, highlight the significance of U Sports in developing top rugby talents in Canada, noting the unique pipeline it provides to the national program. Perry, who also represented Canada in major competitions, emphasized the importance of having a professional league in Canada to nurture homegrown talent.
Despite challenges, including funding issues, the Canadian team remains resilient and determined to reach the pinnacle of women’s rugby. The team’s CEO, Nathan Bombrys, commended the squad’s unwavering commitment to becoming the best globally, as showcased in the documentary series “ALL HEART: A RUGBY STORY.”
The article underscores the need for increased support for women’s sports in Canada, citing the exponential growth of the professional women’s sports market. As the team prepares to face England, the players emphasize the importance of fan support and the dream of having a professional rugby league in Canada to further elevate the sport domestically.
In conclusion, the Canadian women’s rugby team’s journey reflects their dedication, camaraderie, and pursuit of excellence. With the support of fans nationwide, the team aims to make a mark on the global rugby stage and inspire future generations of athletes.
