A fearless batch of rugby converts, still learning the rules of their adopted sport, will run out next week in Canada’s Women’s Rugby League World Cup debut.
The Ravens did not exist this time last year. They have spent less than one week together ahead of their tournament debut next Thursday against New Zealand.
But the side, made up of Canadian-based rugby players and even a former lingerie-clad Legends Football League talent, are hoping to make some headlines.
Mackenzie Fane compares her side to the Jamaican bobsled team made famous in the movie, Cool Runnings.
“A majority of us, 10 months ago, had never played,” the Ontario product said after training on Thursday on the Gold Coast.
“But the girls are extremely fit – that’s what we’ve got going for us most – and I’ve never been one to shy away from contact.
“I like how you go for broke on the last tackle and the fact there’s less rucking (than rugby) really speeds play up.”
Fane, like many of the side, had their first taste of the sport when attending a Toronto Wolfpack game.
The trans-Atlantic trailblazers, winning promotion last season from England’s League 1, have recruited former NRL trio David Taylor, Ashton Sims and Josh McCrone ahead of their 2018 second-tier Championship tilt.
English-born coach Mike Castle is based in Brisbane with the NRL, but has long been involved with Canadian rugby league, jumping at the chance to pilot the Ravens.
He said players were still learning the names of their positions, while the tactical switch away from rugby union was a work in progress.
“I’ve adapted a lot of what we know to suit their strengths, he said.
“We’ve got everything from tradies to teachers in the team, but they’re terrific athletes, quick learners and have big-game rugby experience.”
Canada won’t get it easy in their World Cup debut, set to play New Zealand, Australia and Papua New Guinea in the Sydney-based tournament.
“None are worried or concerned – just excited,” Castle said.
“Canadians like their contact sports like ice hockey and the girls were hooked as soon as they saw some footage of a game.”
