TOP 5 MOMENTS FROM DAY TWO
The sun has set on the 2017 HSBC Canada Women’s Sevens, but the buzz of this tournament will linger long into the summer. Day Two followed up the first day with more electrifying performances and memorable moments. Here are five of the top moments.
5 - Welcome Dance from the Songhee Nation
In honour of the First Nation territory that Westhills Stadium resides on, The Lekwungen dancers of the Songhees First Nations greeted fans this morning with a special territory. The First Nation men, women, and children performed a traditional welcoming dance for players, volunteers, and fans to receive them here in Langford. The song and dance is made as a friendly gesture to all visitors.
4 - Fiji Wins the Challenge Trophy
One of the fan favourites in every tournament, this Fiji Women’s team have taken huge strides over the course of the 2016-17. Once the team hit the field on day two, the shone bright. They played with the exciting style they are known for and managed to come away with the Challenge Trophy. The smiles could be seen on the players as well as the sea of Fijian supporters in the stands.
3 - Sound advice from the kids
The kids from Rookie Rugby got a chance to play on the field of Westhills Stadium. Rookie Rugby is an HSBC program that introduces kids to the game of rugby in a fun and safe manner to help produce the stars of tomorrow. After their match, host stadium Andrea Burke took a moment to interview the kids asking “What is one piece of advice that you would give to Team Canada before their Gold Medal Match?” The response was simple and perfect: “Work hard and never give up.” True words.
We might have a few future coaches on our hand.
2 - Canada Makes the Final
Canada made a whole nation proud with their performance at the HSBC Canada Women’s Sevens. The Women’s Team came out on Day Two ready, composed, and focused. They’ve had difficulty in the quarterfinals the last two years, but this year they rose to the challenge. In the first match of the day, they defeated England by a score of 33-5 and set up a match with Australia in the semifinal. A nail-biter of a game, Canada’s steady attack, stiff defence, and balanced roster led them to victory in front of an uproarious home crowd. The win earned them a berth in the final and their second straight clash with New Zealand in a Series final.
1 - The Legendary Haka
New Zealand played an all-around stellar tournament. After having several veteran players bow out of playing in Langford, New Zealand sent a youth-driven roster. The changes didn’t affect the Series Leaders. They played a perfect tournament, winning all six of their matches, and left the fans with one of the our favourite elements of women’s rugby: A legendary Black Fern Haka. Congratulations to this squad on their Cup-winning performance.
