Keltics U18 Women’s Sevens Squad Named for Vancouver Sevens Invitational

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The Keltics U18 Women’s Sevens team is gearing up for its first away tournament at the Vancouver Sevens Invitational, taking place on February 20-21 at the University of British Columbia. Head Coach Emma DeLory has named 12 athletes to represent the squad in this premier event, hosted by the British Columbia Rugby Union.

The players were selected from a larger training squad of 30 athletes, who will continue to train together in preparation for the 2025 Canada Games. This marks an exciting milestone for the team, as they prepare to showcase their skills against top-tier competition.

For Head Coach Emma DeLory, the main goal for the Vancouver Sevens Invitational is to execute their set piece and display the talent within the team. “This is our first away test as a group, and we are excited to bring the East Coast flair to Vancouver,” said DeLory. “We want to showcase the ideas we’ve been working on as a group and highlight the skills our athletes bring to the table.”

This squad boasts a mix of speed, strength, and rugby knowledge, with the coaching staff working to find the best combinations for success. “We have lots of talented athletes, and we’re focused on finding the right balance,” said DeLory. “We are confident in the diversity of skills within the team.”

The team has been preparing for the Vancouver Sevens Invitational with bi-weekly training sessions. Most recently, the squad faced off against athletes from New Brunswick, Newfoundland, and Prince Edward Island in late December, gaining valuable experience before the tournament.

 

The 12 athletes selected for the Keltics U18 Women’s Sevens team are:

  • Ava Demmings (Valley Rugby Union)
  • Brown’nesha Willis-Glasgow (Dartmouth East Rugby Union)
  • Cate Gaudry (Riverlake RFC)
  • Claire Bennett (Valley Rugby Union)
  • Abbie Mackenzie (Halifax Tars RFC)
  • Gabby Shaw (Valley Rugby Union)
  • Gwyneth Galloway (Valley Rugby Union)
  • Isla David (Dartmouth East Rugby Union)
  • Lucy Van-Berkel (Halifax RFC)
  • Maggie Helyer (Valley Rugby Union)
  • Meredith MacDougall (Halifax RFC)
  • Stella Feeney (Halifax Tars RFC)

The team will be supported by an experienced coaching and support staff, including:

  • Head Coach: Emma DeLory
  • Assistant Coach: Mandy Wells
  • Assistant Coach: Kenzie Cecchetto
  • Manager: Sarah O’Connor
  • Athletic Therapist: Cait Gerry

The Vancouver Sevens Invitational offers a critical experience for the Keltics as they continue their development towards the 2025 Canada Games. With a combination of experienced coaching and raw talent, the team is set to compete at the highest level, and the East Coast squad is ready to show what they’re made of.

Join us in cheering on the Keltics U18 Women’s Sevens team as they make their mark on the national stage in Vancouver!