The Eastman Women’s Rugby Team is seeing rapid growth and unexpected enthusiasm as they prepare for their first competitive season next year.
Coach Isi Masi says the team started with just five women earlier this year, but that number has quickly grown to 20 — most of whom are new to the sport.
“Some of them just showed up,” he says. “It’s funny — every week we’re doing introductions where people are saying, ‘I’ve been playing for two hours,’ or ‘30 minutes,’ or ‘three weeks.’”
Surprising growth and first-time players
Masi credits recent local radio interviews for generating interest. He says 80 per cent of the players have never played rugby before, but that hasn’t slowed them down.
For two weeks, the players focused on learning to tackle, Masi says. That was followed by learning to lift players.
"In rugby we lift people up to contest the ball, and the girls were doing that. I was like, ‘Wow, you’re catching on very fast — especially for first-timers.’ It’s amazing.”
He says it’s not only Steinbach residents getting involved — some players are commuting from other communities, including Stonewall.
Looking ahead to league play
For now, the team is preparing for exhibition games this summer, with the long-term goal of joining a league in 2026. The Eastman Women’s Rugby Team will compete in a tournament in Winnipeg on August 2, followed by games in Dauphin on August 9 against the Dauphin team and the Winnipeg Wasps.
Masi says with 20 players already on board, they are now looking to secure uniforms and sponsorships. “I didn’t think it was going to happen, but it is happening,” he says.
New players welcome
Practices are held Mondays and Wednesdays at 6:30 p.m. at A.D. Penner Park. Masi encourages anyone interested to come out — no experience required.
To get involved or follow the team’s progress, visit the Eastman Warriors Rugby Club on Facebook or contact the Island Breeze organization through social media.
Masi would like to see their numbers double to 40 players.
-With files from Carly Koop.