Canadian Rugby: What’s Happening and How You Can Join
If you love fast‑paced, hard‑hitting sport, you’ve probably heard a bit about Canadian rugby. The game has grown a lot in the last few years, and there’s more to follow than you might think. From the men’s and women’s national teams to local club leagues, there’s a story around every corner. This page gives you the quick rundown of the biggest news, where to catch the action, and simple ways to get on the field yourself.
Top Stories You Can’t Miss
The Canadian men’s national side, the Canucks, just secured a spot in the 2027 Rugby World Cup after a thrilling win over the USA. That victory has fans buzzing about the upcoming qualifiers and the chances of a deep tournament run. On the women’s side, the Maple Leafs are gearing up for the Women’s Rugby World Cup and have added several new players from the university circuit. Their recent friendly against England showed a solid defensive line and a more creative attacking pattern.
Domestically, the Canadian Rugby Championship (CRC) is expanding to include two new franchises in British Columbia and Newfoundland. The new teams mean more local derbies, more tickets on sale, and more chances for young players to showcase their talent. Another hot topic is the partnership between Rugby Canada and a major streaming service that will broadcast live matches on a dedicated sports app. That deal promises high‑definition streams, real‑time stats, and a free trial for first‑time viewers.
How to Watch and Play Rugby in Canada
Want to watch the games without missing a beat? The easiest way is to download the official Rugby Canada app, which streams the CRC, international tests, and women's matches for a low monthly fee. If you prefer traditional TV, check the Sportsnet schedule on Tuesdays and Saturdays—those are the slots the network usually reserves for live rugby.
Thinking about playing? Almost every province has a community club that welcomes beginners. Search for a local club on the Rugby Canada website; you’ll find contact info, training times, and whether they run a “Learn to Play” program. Most clubs meet twice a week, and the first session is often free. If you’re in a city, you can also join a university or college team—many schools offer varsity rugby with scholarship opportunities.
Equipment-wise, you only need a few basics: a mouthguard, a pair of short‑sleeve shirts, and rugby shorts. Most clubs have a small supply of balls for practice, so you don’t need to buy one right away. When you’re ready for matches, you’ll need proper boots with studs, but even a good pair of running shoes works for casual games.
For fans who travel, the annual Toronto Rugby Festival is a great way to see several top‑level games in one weekend. The event also hosts coaching clinics, fan zones, and meet‑and‑greets with national‑team players. Grab a ticket early—those seats sell out fast.
All this means there’s never been a better time to be part of Canadian rugby, whether you’re watching from the couch or stepping onto the pitch. Keep an eye on the news, sign up for the streaming service, and reach out to a local club. The next big moment could be yours to experience first hand.
