Caledon Cavaliers rugby continues to grow

In only their sixth season playing women's rugby, the Caledon Cavaliers have improved their division and league ranking every season. Not only has the senior team had this success, the junior team has completed 2006 and 2007 regular season games undefeated and currently hold a Toronto Rugby Union record for consecutive undefeated regular season games.

The senior team's 2007 season was led by veteran Captain Charlene Riedler whose rugby skills are at the level of provincial and national players.

Her commitment goes beyond just the playing field as Charlene was also club president. Charlene along with all the Caledon players have one motto: "if you truly love the game of rugby, play and bring it to your community."

Head coach Todd Russell was very pleased with the addition of two new junior team coaches, Liz Wiltshire and John Pickard, along with the senior team having the expertise of Chris O'Connor as the forwards coach.

The Caledon Cavaliers team pulls players from the community of Bolton, Caledon, Caledon East, Orangeville, Aliston, King City and surrounding areas.

Into the 2008 season, numerous players have been identified at both the junior and senior levels, and these players will be participating in the try outs for Ontario and national based teams.

Currently Caledon has Jacey Murphy who represents Caledon, and also plays for both the Ontario provincial team, as well as the national U-19 team.

The Caledon rugby team participates with many forms of team bonding events away from rugby, too.

This year Caledon held two camping trips, organized a mountain bike day, a beach day, barbecue and pool practice, attended an international rugby game, along with a whole group of fund-raising events, and of course, Caledon's year-end banquet. This year's banquet was moved to a community centre in Palgrave to accommodate all the friends and family members that wanted to attend Caledon's year-end awards.

This year's junior MVP was Pearl Kersey, junior MIP was Emily Young, Rookie of the year (forward) was Samantha Berno, and the back player was Alison MacCormack. Senior MVP was Charlene Riedler, and senior MIP was Ashley Reid.

As individuals we share a love for a game some have never known, or will never understand. What is the mystery behind being a rugby player? It is a special game, and team bond. Rugby achievements stay with you daily and your Rugby friendships last a lifetime. You play a sport that others cannot, and will never experience. Rugby stands on its own. It can never be compared to any other sport. Come join our team, you are welcomed.