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Rugby training starts

There was enough interest in the Whistler Hoary Marmots Rugby Football Club’s meet and greet last week that club captain John Gideon has decided to go ahead with practices on Tuesday and Thursday at Whistler Secondary School.

The club is currently purchasing insurance through the B.C. Rugby Union with the help of new sponsors at Black’s Pub, Garfinkel’s, and Whiski Jack Properties.

"There was a lot of interest, about 19 new guys came out to the meeting who were really keen, and there are about 10 guys from last year that are still around," explained Gideon. "We have one player who is willing to coach this year, and a few others who would help with administration, so that really frees things up for me to set up games, organize tournaments, and things like that.

"Last week it didn’t look good, but I feel much better now that rugby is a go. There’s so much history and tradition with this team, and we get better every year, it would have been a shame to have been held back by a little thing like insurance."

The practices start at 6 p.m. No experience is necessary and women are welcome to join the team. There’s no financial commitment unless you decide to play in games, and competitions are optional. If you do play, the cost is $40 for the season, which is the cost of insuring each player through the BCRU.

The only equipment you’ll need is a pair of turf cleats, and mouth guards are recommended. Most of the practices will be non-contact, with the exception of some practices before matches.

The club has not yet committed to any specific games, but the Marmots usually take part in a tournament at the Williams Lake Stampede over the Canada Day long weekend along with a club from Nelson. The Marmots also host teams from the Lower Mainland for exhibition games, take part in seven-a-side tournaments, and host a seven-a-side tournament at the end of the July.

Practices have already started and the season will continue through to the end of August.