Canada’s British Columbia Rugby Union (BCRU) switched up its seasonal format, with fall competitions defined by region and taking a more developmental focus, and the spring being the competitive 15s season with the traditional Premier, DI and DII leagues. The adjustment has suited the Seattle Saracens, which play 15s in Canada – although that could be changing in the near future – and are leading the Mainland Tier A at 5-0.
But Seattle interim head coach Liz Kirk asserted that the undefeated record is not a goal of the fall.
“We want to instill some habits in the fall. The results will be what they are,” said Kirk, who is part of a coaching team that includes Marty Quick, Micky Stewart, and S&C and speed coaches. “What we want to do – and we have – is really create a dynamic pattern of play. You focus on foundational skills, and then once you trust those skills more than you ever have, then you start to be creative.”
There’s a wide range of experience in the squad, ranging from capped 7s and 15s Eagles, to recent collegiate graduates. Although numbers have decreased a bit, Kirk estimated that 75% of the team has come from college rugby, and it helps to inherit players with a skills base. Seattle as a club is continuously cultivating relationships within the Northwest rugby community, and the women’s team will hold mini-camps or joint trainings with area schools to strengthen bonds and create some visibility about post-collegiate rugby.
The fall can really focus on those young and new players, especially as some of the veterans step back during this time of year.
“They’re fully engaged in the S&C activities … but they’re living their lives, too,” Kirk said of referenced the nearly year-round schedule for Seattle. “This is the season that, if you want to travel or take weekends off, you do it, and they are.”
There’s no want for expertise, though, and Kirk pointed to those example-setters as the root of the team’s success so far.
“I am not surprised at all,” Kirk said of the five-straight wins this fall. “We have great leadership on the team and that has created a really wonderful culture of hard work.”
Anne Peterson and Kristine Sommer serve as captains, and are “a reflection of their teammates,” per Kirk.
“They have really strong playing histories and are so invested in making sure the team operates as a unit, so that people aren’t left behind or confused about anything,” the coach added. “That way we can move forward in a way that makes sense to everyone, and everyone can contribute in meaningful ways.”
Kirk highlighted experience-rich players like Francine Bray, impactful front row Emily Barber from Canada, east coast rep and stalwart Lili Shi, versatile and multi-skilled scrumhalf Elena Cantorna, capped Eagle Jennine Detiveaux, whom the coach hailed as a great teammate, Colleen Higgins, “but I could go on down the roster,” Kirk implied that everyone has a valuable role within the team.
Kirk was similarly impressed with the younger classes that included alumnae from Central Washington, UC Davis, Chico State, Eastern Washington, and many more. Names like Leah Ingold, Jenny Johnson, Sydnee Watanabe, Stefani Bergerhouse, Emily Colesworthy, among others, are all familiar for their standout collegiate careers and are fitting in nicely with Seattle.
“I’m really excited about the product on the field,” Kirk said. “We try to encourage them to express themselves, and not feel the stress of doing things exactly right but instead feel freedom. They’re getting there – expressing their best selves – and it’s so fun to be around.”
The team is building trust and enjoying its time on the pitch together, and Kirk is looking forward to seeing how that will translate into the competitive season – wherever that happens.
“One other tidbit – which is not trivial at all – is we’re in conversations with USA Rugby to get back at the Division I level,” said Kirk, who indicated that a lot of work and coordination are still in order to make that goal happen. “But the conversations have started.”
Kirk indicated that “as soon as possible” is the hopeful start date for a return to USA Rugby 15s. Seattle is also still looking for a full-time head coach to take over the helm of the women’s team. Learn more.
In the meantime, the Sarries have one more BCRU game against Abbotsford on Nov. 2. Visit www.bcrugby.com for more info.