Canada’s women’s rugby team will play in its first ever World Cup final against England Sunday at 12:45 p.m. (EDT). Here are seven things you didn’t know about the team.
Supporters travel
There have been close to 150 friends and family in France cheering on the women in white and red.
Coach knows France
Canada’s head coach, Francois Ratier, is from France, where he played high-level rugby before heading to Canada 13 years ago.
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They’re history buffs
The entire team visited Vimy Ridge, sight of a defining battle for Canada during the First World War. A number of the women had family members who lost their lives there.
The field boss is just 19
Teenager Emily Belchos has one of the hardest roles on the field at the No. 10 fly half position. Injuries and issues with availability opened up a spot for her, and she has responded in world class fashion.
The PM is a fan
Paying to play
A gold mine rugby is not. The Canadians have paid their own way to the World Cup with fundraising pages and support from friends and family.
As good as it gets
Canada’s captain, Kelly Russell, is arguably the best player in the world. She is in contention for the IRB Women’s Player of the Year award. Teammate Magali Harvey, has also been nominated.