2022 Starts with Selection to Rugby Canada’s Pacific Pride Program
Some time ago, I was invited to join the Pacific Pride Program - the Canadian Development Academy within Rugby Canada’s High Performance umbrella. Athletes participate in a daily professional training environment, with goals to be selected for National Senior teams and Professional contracts.
The invitation came prior to my participation at the Dubai Emirates 7s with the North American Barbarians, and ahead of what would have been the Canada U19 East vs West camp this week.
With the cancellation of the week long U19 camp, and other factors considered, I have pressed pause on my trade school training at Durham College, and accepted the invitation. I am excited to be leaving for Vancouver Island on Tuesday and jumping right into things with the squad that week. Members of the program range in age from 18-25, making the squad young, fast and hungry to learn.
The last two years have been really tough for everyone, and young athletes like me have definitely been impacted by restrictions around sport. It is an honor to have been selected to join the Pride program at this important stage in my development pathway, and I appreciate everyone who played a role in getting me to this point.
To the thirty generous donors that answered the call to support me financially for the Canada U19 camp and the Dubai 7s experience, please know that your generosity will continue to help me as I live, work and train in Langford, in the pursuit of my rugby goals.
I am looking forward to seeing my grandparents and my aunt, uncle and cousins as I will be crashing with them when I arrive, but also really excited to find a place to live for the next four months with some of the guys in the program. If anyone reads this and has a lead on a great place for 2-3 working/student athletes for 4 months, feel free to contact me (jtrugby2003@gmail.com).
What a great way to start a new year!
Justin
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