The Washington Loggers’ U14/15 Development squad completed a 4-0 sweep of four Canadian rep-sides during mini tour to British Columbia, August 6-9.

The squad of 22 promising U15-eligible boys opened their account defeating British Columbia’s 'C' team by a decisive 63-0 score, followed by a 55-0 success against Alberta’s 1st XV Rep Side.

On Saturday, under the late-afternoon heat of the Okanagan sun, the Washington boys unleashed a torrent of running rugby, downing British Columbia 'B' by a 104-0 total.

Said Ray Keane, coach of the Loggers Development XV, “British Columbia showed all the technique we’ve come to expect from Canadian squads. However, the Washington ball movement, fast and on the gain-line stretched the opposition across the field continuously – and ultimately created the gaps to penetrate the defense. We took their opportunities as they arose & excelled at offloads. At times we looked like a side that has been together far longer than the two practices held prior to departing for Canada.” 

Despite the score line, it wasn’t always one-way traffic: “Alberta’s strong and capable work at the breakdown was noteworthy,” said Keane. “However, our quality at countering ensured ball retention and really starved Alberta of any momentum. On defense, the Loggers prospects looked seasoned, with coordination and control.”

With three wins under their belt, the Washington entered Sunday against an interprovincial select side for British Columbia & Alberta.  While the level of competition increased, the Loggers benefitted from repeated days of playing together, and the assistant coaching of Seattle’s Aaron Fry, rallying to score 44 points to the Canadians’ lone unconverted try.  

“We’re very pleased with the result,” said Keane. “To tally 266-5 points on tour is a testament to the commitment of the players to our systems.”

Said Boys’ Loggers Director Steve Brennan “It was a nice performance for our development squad against top Canadian competition. In particular, these boys learned and were able to execute on the basic structure and patterns that is at the core of the Loggers program style of play. Ray Keane and Aaron Fry did an outstanding job teaching and bringing them together. We look forward to seeing these boys continue to develop as players and hope that many are able to elevate their game to the JV and Varsity Loggers level.”

 “Our neighbors to the north are incredibly generous to invite us, and the Kelowna organizers and Crows RFC are wonderful hosts,” said Keane. “Our US west coast rep-sides should look for the opportunity to reciprocate and host in coming years.” Said Keane, “By giving each player the opportunity to try themselves against an ‘overseas’ team, and for some the opportunity to visit of foreign country for the first time, we bring-out the best things that rugby has to offer kids in North America.”