Meet Our Athletes: Gabby Shaw

Gabby Shaw is no stranger to hard work and high-level competition. A dedicated athlete from King’s-Edgehill, she is currently training with the Keltics High-Performance Program and has earned a spot on the long list for the Canada Games Women’s Team. Her journey in rugby has been shaped by both personal growth and strong team connections, making her a standout player on and off the field.

One of Gabby’s proudest moments came when her team won the U17 Atlantics. “We had the same team since U16, so we really got to see how well we developed,” she shares. That experience reinforced her belief in the power of teamwork—something she carries into every game she plays.

Pushing her limits is part of Gabby’s mindset, and she credits Sierra, a teammate from her school team, for challenging her to improve. “She’s a prop, so a completely different position, but she pushes me to develop my tackling skills on forwards. And she’s super positive and passionate about rugby!” Gabby thrives in an environment where athletes lift each other up and inspire growth.

If she could choose anywhere in the world to play, New Zealand would be the dream destination. “It’s warm, and Portia Woodman is from there!” she says, highlighting her admiration for one of rugby’s most electrifying players.

When game time approaches, Gabby has a unique way of getting in the zone. “I just calm my mind and watch some professional games to inspire me or look for cool things to try out,” she explains. That analytical approach, combined with her aggressive, fast-paced, and dynamic style of play, makes her a powerful presence on the field.

With her relentless drive and passion for the game, Gabby is set to make waves in the rugby world. As she continues to develop her skills and embrace new challenges, the future looks bright for this rising star.

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

 

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!

 

Windsor Academy 2025

📣 High School Athletes 📣

Are you looking to add a night of skills to your 2025 training in February and March?
Register today for our 2025 Windsor Academy! Open to high school aged athletes – space is limited so Register today!

REGISTER NOW!

If you have any questions, please reach out to Provincial Performance Coach, Emma Delory at rugbycoach@sportnovascotia.ca.

Rugby NS Hiring – Interim Executive Director

🏉 Join the Team!

Rugby Nova Scotia is hiring an Interim Executive Director for a term position.

The Interim Executive Director will play a crucial role in maintaining organizational effectiveness, supporting our clubs, and overseeing the day-to-day management of our operations. We are seeking someone with strong leadership skills, a deep understanding of our mission, and the ability to work collaboratively with all stakeholders. 💼

For more information visit rugbyns.ns.ca/job-opportunities.

Applications will be accepted until January 31st at noon.

Upcoming Tackle Smart Clinics

High School Coaches!!!

We are excited to provide, through a partnership with School Sport Nova Scotia, FREE TackleSmart training.

Courses will take place on the following dates and times:

  1. February 1st – 11:30am-3:00m at West Hants Sportsplex, Windsor
  2. February 8th – 10:30am-2:30pm at William Sobey Sports Complex, Stellarton
  3. March 2nd – 10:30am-2:00pm at Powerhouse Athletics, Bedford

Space is limited – Register Now!

Spaces are reserved first for current high school coaches. If you are interested in this training and are not a high school coach, please email Matt rugbytd@sportnovascotia.ca. After an initial period of sign ups a few spots may be available for community coaches.

Reach out if you need any assistance registering!
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