The field at Clarence Fulton Secondary was awash with high schoolers last weekend, all burning oxygen to prepare for the upcoming rugby sevens season.
The Fulton Maroons’ girls team is in just its second season, after being revived last year. Coach Tara Peterson, a former player at Seaton Secondary and current athlete on the women’s Jackals team, is looking to continue its success that was shown in 2022.
“We had an amazing team last year, with so much learning,” Peterson told the Vernon Morning Star.
Peterson is taking in other players from around the community to also participate in practices.
“It is extremely important to have a team,” she said. “It builds camaraderie, teamwork and is just such a great social community. We have close to 15 players, and there are other students from other high schools that are wanting to play but can’t because their school doesn’t have a team. So we bring them in and allow them to practice with us but unfortunately they wont be allowed to play in games.”
The Maroons will have city competition in 2023 as the Seaton Sonics will field a team.
Fulton’s first game will be after spring break, playing against teams from Vernon, Salmon Arm and other areas around the Okanagan.
Peterson also plays on the Vernon Jackals women’s team. The Jackals have been dormant since 2016, but is looking to start back up again.
“Some people, the tackling can be intimidating, so we have introduced flag rugby, which is the same concept.”
Kamloops, Merritt and Kelowna are other teams that will be participating in the league.
“Bring your kids out because we do the Vernon Minis which start out April 16,” said Peterson. “It’s a great opportunity for the parents to come out and play with their kids. “
For more information on the Jackals, click here.
This story was updated and correct Thursday, March 23, to include the Seaton Sonics of Vernon fielding a team for 2023
READ MORE: WATCH: Senior girls rugby returns to Vernon high school
READ MORE: Women’s rugby team builds experience
@B0B0Assman
bowen.assman@vernonmorningstar.com
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