Rugby Nova Scotia Announces 2025 Regional Academy Program Leads

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With the 2025 Academy Fundamentals programs set to begin in November across Nova Scotia, Rugby Nova Scotia is proud to introduce the outstanding coaches who will lead each Regional Academy this season.

These Regional Academy Program Leads will oversee programming and athlete development in their respective regions — setting the tone for culture, teamwork, and technical excellence within the Academy system. Working alongside a talented group of assistant coaches, they’ll help create environments where athletes can learn, compete, and love the game 💙

🌲 Bridgewater Academy – Joanna Alphonso

Joanna Alphonso brings elite-level experience and powerful leadership to the Bridgewater Academy. A three-time AUS Most Valuable Player (2015–2017) and two-time U SPORTS First-Team All-Canadian, Alphonso was a dominant force with the StFX X-Women, leading them to an undefeated 6–0 season in 2017 while scoring 10 tries for 50 points.

Described by longtime StFX coach Mike Cavanagh as “the epitome of a leader – one of the best all-around players I’ve ever coached,” Alphonso’s combination of athletic power, defensive strength, and deep game understanding made her one of the most respected players in Canadian university rugby.

Now, as Head Coach at Park View Education Centre and Assistant Coach with the Senior Women’s Keltics, Alphonso continues to inspire athletes through her example. She also serves as a Mentor in the 2021 National Black Female Coach Mentorship Program, using her platform to elevate representation and empower the next generation of female and Black coaches.

🌾 Windsor Girls Academy – Ashley Brooker

Ashley Brooker leads the Windsor Girls Academy after years of success growing rugby across the Valley region. As Provincial Head Coach for the U16 and U17 Women’s Keltics and Rugby Development Director for the Valley Rugby Union, she’s helped build strong pathways from grassroots to high performance.

A former StFX, Team Atlantic, and Nova Scotia Senior Women’s Keltics player, Brooker has also coached at the university level as an Assistant Coach with Acadia Women’s Rugby. She’s recognized for her strategic approach, organization, and mentorship of young coaches, and has been instrumental in creating inclusive and sustainable rugby programming throughout the region.

Brooker’s commitment to community connection and player development makes her a cornerstone of rugby in the Valley — a builder of programs, people, and pride.

🔥 Windsor Boys Academy – Axel Lawrence

Leading the Windsor Boys Academy is Axel Lawrence, one of Nova Scotia’s most respected rugby minds. Currently the Provincial Head Coach for the U19 Men’s Keltics, President of the Valley Rugby Union, and Head Coach at Horton High School, Lawrence brings decades of experience as both a player and educator.

A World Rugby Coach Educator and Bluenose U18M Technical Lead, he has also served as Head Coach of Acadia Men’s RFC and captained the Senior Men’s Keltics in multiple fixtures. Known for his technical precision, discipline, and ability to connect with players, Lawrence’s coaching philosophy is built on structure, accountability, and growth.

He continues to play a pivotal role in advancing male athlete pathways across the province — leading with purpose, passion, and pride in every team he builds.

🌊 Dartmouth Academy – Lysa McGrath

Lysa McGrath continues to be a driving force for women’s rugby in Nova Scotia as Head Coach of both the U18 and U19 Women’s Keltics, and the 2025 Atlantic Selects U19 Women’s team. A StFX alumna, McGrath also leads the Auburn Drive High School Girls Rugby Program and serves as an Assistant Coach with the SMU Women’s Team.

Featured by Sport Nova Scotia as an inspirational leader, McGrath is a graduate of the Black & Indigenous Coach Mentorship Program and a passionate advocate for representation in sport. She emphasizes inclusion, empowerment, and personal growth as core elements of her coaching.

McGrath guided Nova Scotia’s U18 Women to an Atlantic Championship title and continues to mentor athletes to find both confidence and character through rugby. Her strength as a coach lies in building teams where athletes feel seen, supported, and unstoppable.

💪 Halifax Boys Academy – Brinten Comeau

Brinten Comeau, captain of the Senior Women’s Keltics, brings international playing experience and proven leadership to her role as Head Coach of the Halifax Boys Academy. A two-time Rugby Nova Scotia Senior Female Athlete of the Year (2023, 2024), Comeau recently completed a season with Bath Rugby Club in England’s Women’s Championship South 1.

A former UPEI Panther, Comeau earned recognition as AUS Rookie of the Year (2018), AUS MVP (2022), and a U SPORTS All-Canadian. Known for her defensive intensity, high rugby IQ, and ability to elevate team culture, she has been described by her UPEI coach as having “a tremendous ability to dictate the pace and inspire those around her.”

Now transitioning from player to coach, Comeau focuses on developing confident, resilient athletes who bring energy and unity to the field — leading with the same drive that defined her playing career.

🌟 Halifax Girls Academy – Emma DeLory

As Performance Coach for Rugby Nova Scotia, Senior Women’s Keltics Head Coach, and a key architect of the province’s athlete pathway, Emma DeLory continues to shape high-performance rugby across the region.

DeLory has led Team Nova Scotia at two Canada Games (2022 & 2025) and the U19 Atlantic Selects, and served as Team Manager for Canada at the 2021 Rugby World Cup in New Zealand. Selected to the World Rugby Gallagher High Performance Academy, she represents Canada among the sport’s most promising international female coaches.

Known for her athlete-first leadership and thoughtful approach to performance, DeLory believes in self-awareness, empathy, and connection beyond the game as cornerstones of success. She continues to build programs and environments where athletes — and coaches — can thrive.

💙 Our Academy coaches are the backbone of the provincial pathway — developing skill, confidence, and a lifelong love for the game.

Keltics Academy Returns This Fall

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Keltics Academy Returns This Fall

Rugby Nova Scotia is excited to announce the return of the Keltics Academy, offering six weeks of training opportunities for developing athletes across the province.

This year’s program will be delivered across four locations with six training groups:

  • Halifax – Girls & Boys

  • Dartmouth – Co-Ed

  • Windsor – Girls & Boys

  • Bridgewater – Co-Ed

The Keltics Academy provides athletes with access to high-level coaching and training environments designed to build core skills, fitness, and game sense.

Program Details:

  • Duration: 6 weeks

  • Price: Varies by location

  • Schedule: Available for each group online, Provincial Rugby Menu, “Offseason Programming – Keltics Academy” drop down (link below)

For more information, including training schedules and registration details, please visit:
https://rugbyns.ns.ca/keltics-rugby/off-season-programming-keltics-academy/ 

Nova Scotia Teams Set for National and Atlantic Competition

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The summer of 2025 is shaping up to be a major season for Nova Scotia’s high-performance rugby programs, with teams competing across regional and national stages. From junior development to elite sevens competition, athletes from across the province will represent Nova Scotia and the Atlantic region with pride and intensity. Here’s what’s on the horizon: […]

Read more

Meet Our Athletes: Lucy Van Berkel

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For Lucy Van Berkel, rugby is more than just a game—it’s a journey of teamwork, leadership, and unforgettable experiences. A dedicated Keltics athlete from Auburn High School, Lucy is currently training with the High-Performance Program and has earned a spot on the long list for the Canada Games Women’s Team.

One of her favorite rugby memories was traveling to Vancouver last year (2024). “The team was very cohesive, and we had lots of fun,” she recalls. That sense of connection and camaraderie is what fuels her passion for the sport.

When it comes to role models, Lucy looks to Australia—not just for its beautiful landscapes but also for its high-level rugby. Maddie Levi, a standout player, inspires her to push her limits and develop her game. On the field, Lucy is known for being a versatile playmaker with an unselfish approach, always putting the team first.

Beyond the technical skills, rugby has also taught her valuable life lessons. “I’ve learned how to be a good leader and to be inclusive,” she says—qualities that make her a strong presence both on and off the pitch.

Her pre-game routine? Simple but effective: “I just sleep and eat lots of carbs.” With that formula, along with her natural talent and work ethic, Lucy is poised for an exciting future in rugby.

As she continues her journey, there’s no doubt that she will make an impact—whether it’s with Auburn High, the Keltics, or on the international stage one day!

Rugby Nova Scotia is delighted to announce our Senior Men’s and Women’s head coaches for the next 2-year cycle.

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James Alder will fill the role of Senior Men’s head coach for the 2024-205 seasons. James comes into the role with lots of experience, having been a part of the coaching staff for the last 6 years, focusing his efforts with the backs and leading the defense. As a level 3 certified coach, and a current University Men’s Head Coach at Acadia University, James is keen to grow and develop the program by building a competitive performance environment for our Senior NS athletes. We are looking forward to supporting James in his new role as head coach!

For more information on the Senior Men’s program, please reach out to Team Manager, Sarah O’Connor: seniormenkeltics@gmail.com

 

Matt Melanson will step back into the role of Head Coach with our Senior Women’s program for 2024-2025 following a very successful 2023 season. Matt has proven success in building up environments and creating a pathway for players to push themselves through competition. Provincial Performance Coach, Emma DeLory noted, “Matt works tirelessly to ensure the team has a well-rounded competition season and that our NS athletes have the best chance at pursuing their dreams of playing for Canada. He is a great fit for the program and are very appreciative of his work.” Good luck to Matt and his team in the 2024 season!

For more information on the Senior Women’s program, please reach out to Team Manager, Amanda Jardine: jardine__a10@live.ca

Join the Keltics Family! Volunteer as Head Coach for our Provincial Rugby Teams!

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Hey Rugby Enthusiasts! 🌟 The Keltics are on the lookout for passionate individuals to lead our provincial rugby teams to victory! 🏉 If you’ve got a love for the game, coaching experience, and a drive for success, this is your chance to make a difference on and off the field!

Why be a Keltics Head Coach?
✨ Be Part of Something Special: Join a community that lives and breathes rugby! The Keltics are more than a team; we’re a family, and we want you to be a part of it.
🌈 Development Opportunities: Enhance your coaching skills and work with talented players eager to learn and grow in the sport.
🏆 Compete at the Highest Level: Lead our teams to success in provincial competitions and showcase the spirit of the Keltics on a grand stage.

Requirements:
🔍 Coaching experience & NCCP/World Rugby Qualifications of Level 2 – Trained status or higher
🤝 Leadership and communication skills
🔥 Passion for rugby and player development

Full Job Description can be found here:

https://drive.google.com/file/d/16SRH61IhUH9g0TNX8cE16uH_5tqnUNyt/view?usp=sharing

How to Apply:

📧 Apply Online at: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSe-GKpgArTR-QZWl6K8g3noGMDUxt0iNqWynHXXFXShWpTgrg/viewform
🗓️ Application Deadline: Dec 13th, 2023
📞 Shortlisted candidates will be contacted for interviews.