SVG Rugby Union

SVG Rugby is looking for the next coach to take on the 6-month development role!

Welcome!!!
...to the Official website of the St. Vincent and the Grenadines Rugby Union. Here you can find information pertaining to our Union, Training Sessions, Programmes, Players, Events, Picture Galley and some resources for Rugby.

Take a look around and feel free to contact us!

SVG RU Purpose

The SVG RU seeks to promote Rugby Union as an organized competitive national sport for all ages in St. Vincent.

The SVG RU intends to increase the visibility of Rugby in St. Vincent.

Want to Learn a New Sport?

Come to one of our Training Sessions;

MALE: Tuesday and Thursday from 5 pm at the Sion Hill Playing Field.

FEMALE: Monday from 4:30 pm at the Sion Hill Playing Field.

For information about joining our Union, contact our recruiters at svgrugbyunion@gmail.com. No experience is necessary!

Rugby is a great way to stay fit, meet new people and learn a new and upcoming sport!

A LOOK AHEAD

Saturday November 28th: 7s League FINALS at SION HILL Playing Field 1230pm!

2015 7s League Matches

Saturday 3rd October – West St. George Playing Field (Belair)

Saturday 17th October - North Union

Tuesday October 27th - Independence Day Match with St. Lucia

Saturday 14th November – Petit Bordel

Saturday 28th November - League final Calliaqua 6:30pm - night match and social to follow.

2015 7s League Results

Saturday Oct 17th 2015: Leeward Unrulies won the Tournament with only a miraculous 2 players! Players from the Country Pirates came together to support Leeward in their victory over The Town Sharks.

The Trinity School of Medicine was represented for the first time ever, with a full 7s rugby team. Their relatively new players and lack of experience was overshadowed by their spirit! Job well done guys!

Upcoming Events

Rugby World Cup 2019 Qualifiers: Jamaica Vs SVG @ Arnos Vale Stadium March 5 2016

IN OTHER NEWS!

SVG RUFC 7s Team Travels to Mexico for NACRA 7s Tournament!

Here's our 7s team who take on Cayman, Mexico & Guyana in the first day of the NACRugby-North America Caribbean Rugby Association Tournament in Mexico City!!! GOOD LUCK to team SVG!!! The whole of Vincy is behind you and proud of you, not to mention all your fans overseas!!

On the second day Team SVG take on St. Lucia, Mexico B and Curacoa. SVG narrowly lost to rivals St. Lucia, 21-24; and beat Curacao 14-10.

We are so proud of our boys, who after much hard work, determination and dedication, competed against some of the best and biggest teams in the region. Despite some large losses, we have much to be proud of and we wont be discouraged. Everyone should be extremely proud and hold their heads high.

Onwards and Upwards!

2014 Rugby League Results

The Final League Match of the Season was be held SUNDAY Nov 30th 2014 from 1pm at Sion Hill Playing Field! Town and Country drew in the final match with 20-20 being the final score.

The latest league match between the Sharks, Unrulies and Pirates was held Saturday November 15th at Sion Hill Playing Field and saw the .

The Independence Weekend Rugby League Match held on October 25th at Sion Hill saw the Country Pirates win Again!

The latest Rugby 7s League match was held in Sion Hill on October 11th 2014. The Sharks defended Town.

Sept 27th: The results are in; game 1: Unrulies 25, Sharks 10; game 2: Unrulies 10, Pirates 25; game 3: Sharks 20, Pirates 25... Overall winners Pirates!!!!

Rugby Coach Certificate Course

The SVGRU along with the Olympic Solidarity is hosting a Coaching Certificate Course June 4th-June 7th.

An IRB representative will be traveling to SVG to conduct Level 1 and Level to coaching courses.

IRB Level 1 and Level 2 certificates include a theory and practical component which will be completed at the Arnos Vale Sporting Complex Conference Center starting from 11am Wednesday and Thursday June 4th and 5th.

If you are interested in obtaining Rugby Coach Certification, please email us at svgrugbyunion@gmail.com

Beach Clean Up!

We held another successful Beach Clean at Arnos Vale Beach, in preparation for the upcoming Cricket Matches to be held at the Arnos Vale Sporting Complex. This beach was littered with trash that has been washed ashore after coming down the nearby river. We had an excellent turnout from many of the youth rugby teams who came out to help!

Check back soon to find out about our next Community Outreach and Fundraising events!

SUSHI NIGHT Is a Success!

The SVGRU hosted another successful Sushi Night fundraiser to send the U19 team to Trinidad for their first tournament!!

RECENT AND UPCOMING NEWS!

SVG RUGBY WELCOMES NEW COACHES

The SVG Rugby Union is happy to announce the newest members to join the Union are a couple from England, who are joining as club coach and get into rugby coach. Max Cubitt and Jess Pitts, will be in St. Vincent on a 6-month voluntary basis, helping with our schools programme ‘Get into Rugby’ and coaching the National team and club teams. Max will be leading the National teams men’s training and introducing a brand new women’s training which begins on Monday 18th September from 4:30pm at the Sion Hill Playing Field.

Please congratulate Max and Jess and welcome them to SVG. We look forward to working with them both to continue to grow rugby in SVG and hope they enjoy their time here!

SVG return defeated from RAN 7s

The SVG rugby 7s team has returned from Trinidad defeated but in high spirits after a tough Rugby Americas North (RAN) 7-a-side Tournament. The tournament, which featured 24 teams and 68 games, saw St. Vincent starting off in a difficult group with Mexico and Trinidad. The first day of the tournament, on Saturday 12th November, the team was defeated 52-0 by Trinidad and 25-0 by Mexico, but played well against the much stronger teams.

Day 2 on Sunday 13th of November, started with another tough opponent, Martinique who won 28-0. Next was Curacao, who SVG beat when they last met, but Curacao got their revenge as they beat SVG 5-14. The last game of the tournament was against Turks & Caicos who won by a try 21-15.

Which club will be champions of 7s league?!?

Our 2016 sevens league is quickly coming to the final stages with the final match taking place on Saturday 3rd December. Who will take home the cup this year?! Please tune in to find out!

Rugby Coaching Expert Arrives in SVG!

The SVG Rugby Union was excited to welcome coaching expert Ruben Duque to St. Vincent to carry out a series of courses, clinics and assessments of the Union, to develop the sport further in SVG. Ruben was selected by World Rugby after the Union successfully applied for an Olympic Solidarity grant "Development of the National Sports Structure (DNSS)" with help from the SVG Olympic Committee.
Ruben will be using his expertise with members of the Union from September until December and will focus on training local members to sustain the Union and develop the sport further.

Photo L-R: SVG RU President - Sophie Goddard, Coaching Expert - Ruben Duque and SVG OC General Secretary - Keith Joseph.

Rugby Sevens an Olympic Success!

Following the successful re-introduction of rugby to the Olympic Games in the form of 7-a-side, rugby continues to be one of the fastest growing sports globally. Rugby Sevens was accepted in this year’s Olympics in Brazil, and was watched with admiration and excitement by millions of people worldwide. Viewers from all over the world witnessed the athletes speed, endurance, skills and non-stop action. As well as their passion for their sport and their country, athletes made rugby differ from other team sports by celebrating or commiserating with their competitors as one big rugby family.

In a country where we have raw talent, athleticism and tons of drive, there has never been a better time to get involved with a sport that is not only one of the fastest growing but is full of promise and opportunity. What stands rugby out from other team sports, is how we treasure our values; Integrity, Passion, Solidarity, Discipline and Respect.

The Union is recruiting youth, girls and boys, men and women to play rugby or be involved in the Union. Interested persons can attend training at Sion Hill on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 5pm or contact us on the below information. We look forward to welcoming you to the rugby family!

Rugby 7s Exhibition in Mustique

3 teams from the SVG RU set sail on Saturday 30th July to play a series of 7-a-side rugby matches on the stunning island of Mustique, one of our neighbour islands. The Invaders, Sharks and Pirates, played a friendly exhibition to raise awareness of the Union. The players boarded two boats destined for Mustique, which lies 18 miles south of St. Vincent. A rough, windy, rainy 2.5 hours later and all arrived ready to play! After a series of friendly matches, we headed to the beach for a much needed cool down and BBQ. Great rugby Saturday had by all! Thank you to all who made the day a success and for Mustique for their great hospitality. We'll be back in early December....

Summer Camp Begins!

Our annual youth camp kicked off at Calliaqua playing field on Monday 25th July with rugby fun and drills in the sunshine! The camp will continue all week in Calliaqua from 9am-12 before moving to Georgetown next week, beginning Monday 1st August daily from 9am-12noon. Come and join the fun!

Rugby Union Collaborates with Swim Club

The SVG Rugby Union has been collaborating with the Blue Marlins Swim Club Sports Camp at the Arnos Vale Sporting Complex. The camp, which began on Monday 11th July until Friday 15th July, gave swimmers the opportunity to try tag rugby for the first time as they took part in their annual swim camp. As you can see from the photos, the kids had a great time!

Saturday June 25th-Aeropost Island 15s Cup Finals at South Rivers Playing Field

Saturday June 25th saw the Aeropost Island 15s Cup finals between the Leeward Invaders and the Country Pirates.

Congratulations to the Country Pirates who won the Cup on home turf in South Rivers. Final score 76-8.

Leeward Invaders will be coming for the John Townend 7s League Cup starting in September.

The day wasnt without its challenges, and we continually need much more help and more officials, but it was a success and we have had a nice crowd.

Well done to all involved!

SVG Rugby Olympic Day Festival

SVG Rugby participated in the SVG National Olympic Committee's Olympic Day celebrations, by hosting small activities and games to raise awareness and interest in rugby and to promote rugby's inclusion into the 2016 Rio Olympic Games. It was a very successful day!

Thanks to all who contributed their time!

Saturday June 4th-Leeward Invaders Tree Planting

The Leeward Invaders Rugby Club recently completed a community service project along side the Ministry of Forestry and Richmond Vale Academy. In an effort to prevent further erosion along the Petit Bordel River caused by the December 2013 flood, the Leeward Invaders Rugby Club planted Mango, Coconut and Moringa Trees and flowers along the river banks leading up to the waterfall.

Thanks to all who joined to make this project such a success!

Thank You!

Thanks to all who helped make our Inter School Competition another successful‪ ‎Get Into Rugby‬ Competition! Special thanks to the coaches, especially Valarie, Dellon, Shak, Brian & Chris, teachers, volunteers and special thanks to our collaborators and sponsors-Ministry of Education, Ministry of Transport, Ministry of Sports, National Olympic Committee, National Sports Council and the media!!

THIS SATURDAY!

May 28th from 11am come to Sion Hill Playing Field to see our youth ruggers battle for the top primary and secondary school position in the annual end of school Inter School Get Into Rugby Competition!

Following the youth competition, stay to watch the Leeward Invaders take on the Town Sharks.

Women and Girls Rugby Academy to Kick Off Monday May 9th

SVG Rugby to Kick off 15s Tournament Saturday April 23rd at Calliaqua Playing Field!

The 2016 Island Cup 15s Tournament will commence Saturday April 23rd at Calliaqua Playing Field from 1pm! Come out and support your club as the Country Pirates take on the Town Sharks!

Huge Thanks to all our sponsors and supporters who helped make the Rugby World Cup Qualifier Match such a success! Digicel, KFC, Ministry of Tourism and Sports to name a few!

RUGBY WORLD CUP 2019 QUALIFIER March 5th 2PM AT ARNOS VALE STADIUM

The Webb Ellis Cup Has Arrived in SVG!

Get Into Rugby Impact Events

SVG Rugby is hosting the first match of the Rugby World Cup 2019 Qualifiers against Jamaica on March 5th. As part of events leading up to the match, SVG Rugby Coaches have been going to different youth groups and youth organizations in an effort to grow the game.

SVG RUGBY Gearing Up for Rugby World Cup Qualifier Match

As part of events leading up to the World Cup Qualifier Match SVG Rugby will be hosting various outreach and impact events:

February 29th: Get Into Rugby Coaches and Teachers Training Seminar
February 29th-March 4th: Rugby America's North Regional Youth Programme Coordinator School Visits
March 5th: SVG Rugby Give Rugby a Try Festival

SVG Rugby wishes to extend Season Greetings and a Happy New Year to all our supporters, collaborators, schools and staff, fans, players and their families!

SVG Rugby 3rd Annual Awards Ceremony

The Third Annual SVG Rugby Awards Ceremony was held December 12th at Beach Combers Hotel in Villa.

A special thank you to all who made SVG Rugby grow and prosper over the course of 2015!

Award Winners Include:
Best Attendance: Brian "Soap" Alexander
Most Tries Scored: George Kruger
Most Improved Player: Dellon Durrant
Senior Player of the Year: Leonard Matthews
Junior Player of the Year: Brendan Matthews
Most Dedicated: Brian "Soap" Alexander
Best Newcomer: Kit Horne
Best Tackler: Dellon Durrant

The 2015 League Champions goes to.....
Country Pirates!

SVG GET INTO RUGBY INTER SCHOOL COMPETITION

A BIG Thanks to our sponsors and supporters who made our Get Into Rugby Inter School Competition a resounding success:

National Sports Council
Ministry of Education
Sports Department and YES workers
National Lotteries Authority
Ministry of Transport

We are especially grateful to the schools and teachers who have helped us make this programme possible for the last 3 years:

Georgetown Government School
Barrouallie Government School
CW Prescod Primary School
St. Mary's Roman Catholic School
Chateaubelair Methodist School

SVG Special Olympics Day 2015

School is Open and Get Into Rugby is Back!

Coastal Clean Up Day 2015

Thanks to everyone who helped out at the Coastal Clean Up Day on Saturday Sept 19th at Calliaqua Beach!

Coach Mike Jackson has arrived!!

....and is already full swing into the Get Into Rugby programme and coaching training sessions on tuesdays and thursdays at Sion Hill!

Special Olympics Sept 26th Calliaqua Playing Field

Training Session with Iain Balshaw

Training Session with Lewis Moody

Thanks to everyone who attended our AGM!

The results of the 2015 AGM are as follows:

OFFICIAL NAME CHANGE: St. Vincent & the Grenadines Rugby Union (SVG RU)

President: Sophie Goddard
Vice: President: Kelly Glass
Co Vice President: John Townend
Treasurer: Gary Blackman
Secretary: Valarie Pelletier
Assistant Secretary: Leonard Matthews
Public Relations Officer: Kemi Francois
U19's Public Relations Officer: Nixon McAllister (new role)
Sponsorship Director: Jake Heimann (new role)
Team Manager: Guy Hadley
Club Coach: Mike Jackson (6 months)
League Coordinator: Kemi Francois (new role)
U19's Men's captain: Benson Nanton
Men's captain: Andrew Phillips

League team names officially voted on:

Country: PIRATES
Central/Town: SHARKS
Leeward: UNRULIES
Canouan: ALL BLACKS

Next League Match: July 18th in Petit Bordel

The next League Match will be held July 18th at the Petit Bordel Playing Field. As usual: bring a bowl and something for the pot afterwards.

Olympic Day 2015

SVG Rugby took part in Olympic Day 2015 activities by highlighting the sport of rugby for all to see. Olympic Day is a celebration for youth to observe the olympic values of excellence, friendship and respect. The Unrulies, Sharks and Pirates all participated in friendly competition to showcase the upcoming sport of rugby. Photo by Edward Newman

2015 Get Into Rugby Inter School Fun Day!

Follow Us On Instagram: SVGRUGBY

SVG Places 2nd in NACRA South Zone Cup League

SVG Rugby continues to improve their standings. Just goest to prove what a difference a coach makes!

Onwards and Upwards!

SVG Rugby Wishes to Thank All Sponsors and Supporters

SVG Rugby would like to thank all sponsors and supporters for ensuring the smooth running of the NACRA 15s match held here on April 18th. Special thanks to the National Sports Council, Ministry of Culture, Red Cross, National Olympic Committee, Dr. Defreitas, Hairoun, National Lotteries Authority, SVGTV, Oris Photography, Edward Newman, and all our well wishers.

SVG Rugby suffers tough loss against BVI : 15-22.

The SVG men were not able to handle the pressure in front of family, friends, sponsors and supporters, succumbing to BVI by just one try.

St. Vincent Takes On BVI in the Final Match of the 2015 NACRA 15s Tournament at the Arnos Vale Sports Stadium April 18th 2015.

Come Support SVG RUGBY April 18th at the Arnos Vale Sporting Complex. Kick off 2pm!

svg vs bvi
SVG VS BVI... Here comes the PAIN!!!
Posted by Dellon Wiz Durrant on Tuesday, April 7, 2015

SVG RUFC Return Victorious Against Rivals St. Lucia

St. Vincent prevailed 16 to 8 against rivals St. Lucia at the 2nd match of the 2015 NACRA 15s Tournament held in St. Lucia on March 21st.

Everyone from SVG RUFC send their deepest condolences to Arthur and his family and all our friends at Curacao Rugby Federation during this tragic and difficult time.

No Rest for the Weary...

SVG Rugby men have been training hard as they prepare to take on Rivals St. Lucia on Saturday March 21st!

Big Up!

SVG RUFC wish to extend a Huge Thank You to NACRA and Curacao Rugby Federation for hosting a wonderful match over the weekend. Special thanks to Arthur and Scott for organizing uniforms and boots for Team SVG to compete in!

SVG Draw with Curacao during First Match of 2015 NACRA 15s Tournament

SVG 24, Curacao 24!
SVG draws with Curacao in their first match of the 2015 NACRA 15s Tournament on March 7th. SVG put up a hard fight after many setbacks: delays from LIAT, which grounded SVG for two days and almost saw SVG forfeiting their first match; and with no kit, due to lost luggage! Unstoppable! Onward and Upward Team SVG!

Wishing safe travels and good luck to our SVG Rugby National Mens Team as they Travel to Curacao to Compete in the 2015 NACRA 15s Tournament on March 7th! Onwards and Upwards. We are Unstoppable!

SVG RUFC Travels to Canouan for League Match

SVG Rugby took to the high seas again, this time to travel past Bequia farther south to Canouan. Mainland clubs competed against the Canouan club team.

The Country Pirates won this weeks League Match.

SVG RUFC Travels to Bequia for League Match

Members of the SVG RUFC took to the high seas to travel to Bequia for a League Match. Teams represented at the match were Country Pirates, Leeward Unrulies and Town Sharks. Results from Saturday's league matches in Bequia are as follows:

Game 1: Unrulies vs Pirates 35-7
Game 2: Sharks vs Pirates 20-21
Game 3: Sharks vs Unrulies 0-52

Thanks to every one for their support!

Coach Mark Winder Safely Arrived!

SVG Rugby is excited to begin a new year with a new coach! Coach Mark Winder safely arrived to SVG from New Zealand on Jan 17th 2015. Mark has a wealth of experience and expertise, as head coach of prestigious rugby clubs in both New Zealand and Australia at both the senior and junior levels, including coaching secondary school girls, U19 and U21 teams. Over his extensive coaching career, Mark has also served as programme director of junior rugby academies and college rugby programmes in the USA. Before getting to business with National Training Sessions and the Youth Programme here in SVG, Mark will travel to Chicago, USA to participate in a Regional Development Summit geared toward Implementing the Get Into Rugby Programme.

Welcome to SVG Mark!

SVG RUFC is Excited to Announce the Arrival of our New Coach, Mark Winder from New Zealand! He will be Head Coach of the National Team and Youth Programme Coordinator

SVG Rugby is excited to announce the arrival of our new coach, Mark Winder, from New Zealand on January 17th! He has tremendous expertise and experience coaching rugby of all levels and ages. We cannot wait to start off the New Year 2015 continuing our onward and upward momentum with bigger and better things to come!

SVG RUFC wishes everyone a happy and prosperous New Year! SVG RUFC is looking forward to continuing the onward and upward momentum into 2015!

2nd Annual SVG RUFC Awards Ceremony

The 2nd Annual SVG RUFC Awards Ceremony was held Saturday December 13th 2014. We would like to thank Jake for generously hosting the Annual Awards Ceremony at his residence, Mauricio for his continual support of SVG Rugby by preparing the delicious food and Sophie and Guy for their continued hard work supporting all SVG RUFC endeavours. Thanks to John for sponsoring the League Cup Trophy!

Winners of the Awards are:
Best Newcomer 2014: Dellon Durrant, Runner Up: Shaqkurn Ryan
Junior Player of the Year 2014: Benson Nanton, Runner Up: Brendan Matthews
Senior Player of the Year 2014: George Kruger, Runner Up: Leonard Matthews
Best Attendance: Alonzo Dabrell
Most Improved Player 2014: Brian Alexander, Runner Up: Jayvan Lucas
Most Dedicated Payer 2014: Leonard Matthews, Runner Up: Guy Hadley

Try Scorer: Godfrey Matthews, Runner Up: George Kruger
Best Tackler: Yellow Dallaway, Runner Up: Brian Alexander

2014 7s LEAGUE CHAMPIONS: LEEWARD UNRULIES!!

Sushi Night Fundraiser a Huge Success!

We want to extend a BIG HUGE Thank You to everyone that helped make the sushi fundraiser a great success!! Special thanks to the Chef-Mauricio and Oscar, Sophie, Guy, Andrew P, Brian, Val, Nixon, Green, Yellow, Gilan, Leonard, and Jake! Special thanks are in order to Cheryl & the amazing Beachcombers Hotel crew!! What a team!!! Thanks to all our supporters for making it a success!

International Rugby Board (IRB) Becomes WORLD RUGBY!

From World Rugby Media Release:

World Rugby has officially launched with the unveiling of its logo and brand, bringing to a close the 2014 World Rugby Conference and Exhibition in London on Tuesday November 18th 2014.

At the heart of the brand is a distinctive positioning, expressed visually through a modernised and progressive logo that embodies World Rugby’s mission statement to grow the game globally, retaining a link to the organisation’s heritage through its blue and green colour scheme.

With Rugby continuing to inspire and engage new audiences and players around the world, the launch is the culmination of a rebranding process undertaken with the assistance of FutureBrand.

The new expression of the brand, reflected in the new name and visual identity, aims to deliver the federation’s mission to build a stronger connection with fans, players and commercial partners. Ultimately engaging new audiences worldwide.

World Rugby Chairman Bernard Lapasset said: "Global Rugby participation has boomed by more than two million to 6.6 million players over the past four years, driven by the commercial success of Rugby World Cup, World Rugby’s development strategies and record investment, strong and vibrant Unions and Rugby’s re-inclusion in the Olympic Games."

"Today’s launch embodies our mission statement to grow the global Rugby family beyond our traditional family and fan base and reflects the federation’s evolution from Rugby regulator to Rugby inspirer."

Launching the brand, World Rugby Chief Executive Brett Gosper said: "In an incredibly competitive global entertainment and sporting marketplace, Rugby must continue to appeal to those who know and love the sport and its heritage, while attracting, engaging and inspiring those who have no connection with the sport across multiple cultures and languages around the world."

"Supported by a new name, a distinctive, optimistic and progressive new brand, and clear character-building values World Rugby collectively has the ingredients and tools to do just that. We want everyone to feel connected with the sport and Rugby’s ongoing success story."

"Our new brand certainly stands out and enables us to promote our consumer-facing properties in a way that they will be more appealing and impactful to the sport’s growing global fan base,"

The rebrand will have no impact on Rugby World Cup 2015 branding or positioning, which will remain as it is with its iconic logo throughout the current event cycle.

The announcement brought to a close a hugely successful World Rugby Conference and Exhibition in London, which brought together more than 700 delegates from 60 nations over two days of thought-provoking workshops and panel sessions covering some of the biggest topics in Rugby from player welfare and integrity to the future of Rugby World Cup and delivering an outstanding Rugby Sevens event at Rio 2016.

Rugby, Building Character Since 1823

A BIG THANKS to all our SUPPORTERS!

Thanks to everyone who made our BBQ fundraisers a success! The hard work and dedication of those who organized the fundraiser does not go unnoticed!

Thanks to every one who supported our efforts by purchasing BBQ, donating materials or time!

Come Support Rugby In St. Vincent!

Friday November 7th: BBQ Fundraiser outside Howards Marine, Calliaqua.
$10 Chicken, $12 Pork, $15 Fish.

Saturday November 8th: Roast Pork Dinner at Paradise Beach Hotel, Villa.
$40 for 3 course meal.

Saturday November 29th: Sushi Night!

All Proceeds support the National 7s Team's travel expenses to compete in the NACRA 7s Tournament in Mexico this December!

Rugby League Match Oct 25th!

SVG Rugby Union will be hosting a Rugby League Match over the Independence Holiday October 25th at Sion Hill playing field from 1 pm. In honor of SVG's 35th year of Independence, the teams are asked to wear national colors. Teams are designated the following colors: Leeward Unrulies-YELLOW; Country Pirates-GREEN; and town Sharks-BLUE!!! Please wear a T-shirt or jersey of this color! Hope to see everyone Saturday!

NACRA 7s Tournament in Mexico-Selections to Begin!

The selection process for the Mexico 7s has begun. Coach Rory won't be selecting anyone who isn't at training and giving their all, so please be there if you want a chance of being selected!!!!

Coach Rory is Here!

Rory safely arrived to SVG on Monday evening, Sept 22. He hit the ground running and immediately dove into meetings with the National Olympic Committee, Sports Department Director, National Sports Council, among others. The first week also saw Rory traveling to the Get Into Rugby primary schools and running the national team training!

New Rugby Coach Due to Arrive at End of Month!

After an extensive application process, with many highly qualified and suitable coaching applicants, the SVGRU Executive have agreed on the newest addition to the SVGRU team. Please congratulate Rory Tonkin of Wales, and welcome him to SVG as he takes on the position to head the youth programme, alongside Nadine Allicott, and Coach of the national teams. We look forward to his arrival and working with him to continue to grow rugby in SVG!

SVGRUFC AGM 2014

The SVGRU recently held its Annual General Meeting. We would like to take this time to thank all of those members and non-members who came out to show support and to the Executive and members who work so hard to ensure our Union's future.

The past year has been a very successful rugby year! Despite a few setbacks, the Union has seen many positive changes, including growth in the club's numbers, a successful youth programme and summer camp and the quality of rugby improve.

We are very happy to announce that the Executive is expanding slightly and has a few changes as nominated, voted and approved at the AGM. This will help greatly with the current very overstretched Executive Board.

Please Welcome the following:

Leonard Matthews as Assistant Secretary (Replacing Kimran Barnum).
Nixon McAllister as U19's Public Relations Officer (New Role)
Jake Heimann as Sponsorship Director (New Role)
Benson Nanton as U19's Men's Captain
Andrew Phillips as Senior Men's Captain

Also at the AGM, the league team names were officially voted on;
Country: PIRATES
Central/Town: SHARKS
Leeward: UNRULIES

THANKS AND WE LOOK FORWARD TO ANOTHER PROSPEROUS RUGBY YEAR!

Reintroduction of Rugby League

Saturday Rugby League Match 2 in Petit Bordel

In our continual effort to increase interest in and awareness of rugby, in addition to maintaining interest in the sport, the SVGRU have reinstated the Saturday Rugby League. One Saturday a month, the SVGRU will host 7 a-side rugby matches in different communities.

The Rugby League serves as a platform for growing the game, by showcasing the sport of rugby in communities throughout Mainland St. Vincent, while allowing newcomers to see and participate in rugby. The Rugby League also provides existing members with regular outlets for healthy competition, garnering continued interest in rugby.

To date, 3 teams have been created, representing Country, Town and Leeward.

2nd Annual Summer Youth Rugby Camp

The 2nd Annual summer youth rugby camp took place during the month of August in Calliaqua, Georgetown, Kearton's Barrouallie, and Chateaubelair. The camp was open to youth aged 7 and above (or Grade 3 and above), both male and female were encouraged to participate.

We saw both new participants and youth who took part in the Grassroots Rugby Programme, Get Into Rugby at the primary schools during the 2013-2014 school year.

The SVGRU Executive Committee and Players would like to extend our thoughts and prayers to all those affected by the Christmas Eve Flooding.

Grassroots Get Into Rugby Programme Takes Off!

The launch week of SVGRU's Grassroots Tag Rugby Programme concluded with a great turn-out at our Fun Day! Thanks to all our supporters; the IRB, Jack Hanratty, the NOC, MOE, and the Sports Department and of course the schools, principals and teachers, parents and kids!

Following the launch we will be working in 8 primary schools across St. Vincent introducing grade 3 and 4 to tag rugby.

First Annual SVGRUFC Awards Night

We had a blast at our First Annual SVGRU Awards Night! Drank the bar dry and danced the night away. Thanks to every one who made it possible and to all the players who came!

The following players took home awards!

Best Senior Player 2013: Yellow
Runner up: Guy Hadley
Best Junior Player 2013: Speedy
Runner Up: Keanu Constance
Best Newcomer: George Kruger
Runner up: Vernon
Most Improved Player: Mark Cordice
Runner Up: DuDu
Best Attendance: Andrew P
Runner up: Delly
Most Dedicated Player: Guy
Runner up: Leonard Matthews

Big Up...

The SVGRU recently completed its month long Youth Rugby Camp! The planning committee and Union wish to thank our sponsors and supporters in helping us achieve our ambitious endeavours of bringing rugby to youth throughout St. Vincent.

Specifically we would like to thank:

Aeropost
Save A Lot
Courts
Sunsail
The National Olympic Committee
Randy's Supermarket
The National Sports Council
St. Vincent Brewery

Youth and Senior Rugby Players at the Final Fun Day in Arnos Vale August 31st 2013

MATCHES AND TOURNAMENTS RESULTS

U19 Team Travels to St Lucia

The U19 Team's first competitive experience outside of training was against St. Lucia the weekend of the 18-20th July. The results were: game 1: 24-24; game 2: 17-17; and with game 3 seeing a victory for SVG: 22- 26. Games were played at the Castries Community Secondary School in St.lucia Well done boys!!!

SVG U19 Team Withdraws from NACRA U19 Tournament

Unfortunately, The SVG Youth (U19) Team will no longer be traveling to Trinidad to participate in the NACRA U19 Tournament due to budget constraints and unforeseen circumstances.

We would like to big up all the U19 players for all their hard work and dedication in preparing for the tournament.

This just means we will be a bigger force to play against next time!

SVG Defeated By Rival St. Lucia

SVG traveled to nearby St. Lucia to wrap up the NACRA 15s Tournament on June 21st.

SVG returned narrowly defeated by rivals St. Lucia, 22-26. Tries were made by Phillip Alvis and George Kruger with conversions made by Phillip Alvis.

The traveling team consisted of:

Antoney Joseph
Justin "3 feet" Tittle
Justin Joyles
Kemi Francois
Brian Alexander
Allisko "PS" Samuel
Recardo "Yellow" Dallaway (captain)
Rasheed Campbell
George Kruger
Phillip Alvis
Jayvan Lucas
Godfrey Matthews
Leonard Matthews
Kevin Bailey
Philon "Beanie Man" Delpesche
Benson Nanton
Brasber Henry
Steven Quashie
Kemron Thomas
Nixon McAllister
Kyron Bascombe

SVG Faces Tough Loss Against Curacao Rugby Club

As part of the NACRA 15s Tournament, SVGRU hosted Curacao Rugby Club the weekend of June 7th-8th.

The SVG National Men's 15s team put up a tremendous fight against Curacao succumbing to a 19-12 loss. Tries were made by: Andrew Phillips and Richard Morris. The conversion was made by Phillip Alvis.

The team consisted of:

Antoney Joseph
Justin "3 feet" Tittle
Justin Joyles
Kemi Francois
Gilan Comas
Guy Hadley (team manager)
Recardo "Yellow" Dallaway (captain)
Richard Morris
George Kruger
Phillip Alvis
Godfrey Matthews
Dugal "Youthi" James
Andrew Phillips
Leonard Matthews
Philon "Beanie Man" Delpesche
Hollis Green
Kimran Barnum
Brian Alexander
Kevin Bailey
Allisko "PS" Samuel
Cheno Baptiste
Rasheed Campbell
Kemron Thomas

SVGRU Returns from BVI Victorious!

The SVG National Senior Men's Rugby 15 a side team recently participated in the first match of the NACRA 15 a side Tournament, against the British Virgin Islands.

St. Vincent returned victorious with a narrow win over BVI, 24-22. It was a nail-biting match for the executive and sub-players on the side lines. Tries were made by: Godfrey Matthews, Gilan Comas, Antoney Joseph and Dugal "Youthi" James with conversions made by Phillip Alvis.

The travelling team consisted of:

Justin Joyles
Justin "3 feet" Tittle
Antoney Joseph
Kemi Francois
Gilan Comas
Guy Hadley (team manager)
Recardo "Yellow" Dallaway (captain)
Rasheed Campbell
George Kruger
Phillip Alvis
Godfrey Matthews
Dugal "Youthi" James
Leonard Matthews
Kevin Bailey
Philon "Beanie Man" Delpesche
Kemron "Taz" Thomas
Steven Quashie
Allisko "PS" Samuel
Jayvan Lucas
Benson Nanton
Richardo Roberts

Congrats to SVGRU!

Independence Day 2013 Rugby Match!!
SVG: 24 HMS Lancaster: 7

SVGRU hosted a game against the UK Navy HMS Lancaster on Independence Day, October 27th at the Sion Hill Playing Field.

SVG outshine the Navy men scoring 4 tries and making 2 conversions, while the Navy only scored 1 try and made their only conversion.

Tries scored by: Phillip Alvis, Antony Joseph, Youthi James

The match was followed by BBQ and drinks and good times :-)

Thanks to all who came out to support the SVGRU and all our sponsors; St. Vincent Brewery Ltd. and Randy's Supermarket!

SVGRU Takes on St Lucia at the Carnival 10s!

SVGRU just returned from the St. Lucia Carnival 10's Tournament!

The SVGRU Men's 7 a side team played 4 matches against the St. Lucia A Team, St. Lucia B Team, and the Visiting Coaches Team.

The results of those matches are as follows:

SVG vs SLU B
41 to 0

Tries made by: Phillips Alvis, Leonard Matthews, Recardo "Yellowman" Dallaway, Anizo Lewis, Godfrey Matthews, and Delroy Diamond.

SVG vs Coaches
12 to 22

Tries made by: Godfrey Matthews

SVG vs SLU A
0 to 31

SVG vs SLU B
15 to 10

Tries made by: Godfrey Matthews, Phillip Alvis and Leonard Matthews.

Overall, SVGRU Men's 7 a side Team took home 3rd place in the St. Lucia Carnival 10s Tournament.