Go Vikes Go!

As many will already know, I've exhibited some extreme behaviours over the course of my working career in education, namely my fanaticism surrounding coaching a variety of sports. I recently shared that my passion has decreased these past few years in retirement, but that doesn't mean my interest has waned ... NOT in the least! I greatly enjoy life on the spectator side of the court / pitch, trusty Nikon in hand poised and ready for the task, so imagine the pleasure emanating from cheering on North's Lady Vikings as they bested Bear Creek in the GBSSA semifinals for girls' rugby. 

Beautiful day! Fantastic spectacle of rugby! Plus I captured some keepers!

The rugby aficionados at Barrie North have settled on a group approach to steering the ship that includes a Sr Boys, Jr Boys, and Varsity Girls, in a divide and conquer method to spread their various strength across the 3 different teams. Inevitably, some ownership was taken and coaches Griffin and Krauser stepped across the line to captain the Varsity Girls, a task that judging by their wide smiles and multitudinous high-fives, is something that they're A-okay with. While coaches Alcombrack, Claus, and Erwin are available to fill in some blanks, the product on the pitch is largely thanks to these two stellar gentlemen.

The varsity aspect of the side means that there are young women of a range of ages from gr 9 to 5th year donning the gold 'n green, demonstrating both passion and execution in abundant proportions ... and it doesn't hurt at all that they have some pretty nifty athletes! While the passion and energy of Bear Creek was commendable, it was no match for the equally brilliant play of the Vikings, and when combined with some readily evident high rugby IQ's, the Vikings eventually wore down the Kodiaks, putting in 3 late tries to make the final spread fittingly comfortable.

Shout out to coach Wilkey at Bear Creek, though, and he should be proud as a peacock for the way his charges competed to the final whistle!

The semifinal win places the Vikings square in the sights of the #1 seeded Nantyr Shores Tritons, who had similar success in their semifinal against the Orillia SS Nighthawks. The GBSSA final will take place at 3:00 pm on May 26th and be hosted by the Nantyr. It should be a cracker of a game, and judging by the execution of both sides, the fans will be treated to a terrific display! I'll of course be rooting for North but should they be bested, it won't be from a lack of effort!

Unfortunately, a previous appointment prevents me from being at the game in person, so I'll offer my best wishes to all the Vikings.

BTW, if you're up for some boys' rugby actions, both the Sr and Jr Boys Vikings will host on Monday May 29th in their own semifinals with the Sr kicking things off at 2:30 pm. 

Check the SCAA Sports web site for the most up-to-date information CLICK.