What’s better than watching a good game of rugby? Watching a good game of rugby—with players in tuxedos and dresses.
That’s the vibe Bow Valley High School senior students Taia Graham and Sienna Showman are bringing to Cochrane with their upcoming Dress-Up Rumble touch rugby tournament. The event, part of their high school leadership project, is both a celebration of sport and a fundraiser to help future players join the Cobracats rugby team.
“It’s going to be a rugby 7s format, and we highly encourage spectators to dress up as well,” said Graham. “We love rugby. We love its culture. And we really want to grow it here—so let’s get this show on the road!”
The event will take place on Friday, April 11, from 2 to 6 p.m. at the SLS Legacy Sportsfield. The action-packed afternoon will feature Grade 11 and 12 students from both Cochrane High and Bow Valley High competing in a round-robin style tournament, all for a shot at bragging rights.
“We had 31 players sign up,” Graham said. “Each team will play three games, and the MVP will be given $100 cash.”
Graham was inspired to create the event after playing in this year’s 22nd annual Cochrane Classic. Now, she hopes to start a similar tradition for rugby.
“I had a really amazing time at the Classic. I want to build something like that for rugby—a tournament people look forward to every year.”
Graham and Showman have been hard at work securing community support from local businesses like Sure Print, No Frills, Save-On Foods, and Domino’s Pizza.
“It’s awesome to get a lot of support,” said Graham. “We even made a thank-you sign that we’ll display at the field tomorrow.”
For just a $2 entry fee, spectators can enjoy a lively afternoon of rugby. They can also enter a 50/50 draw, and grab some delicious food: $5 hotdog and drink combos and $2 candy bags—complete with inspirational quotes.
“We wanted to raise enough money to sponsor two players’ registration fees for next year,” said Graham. “Our hope is that this tournament inspires future seniors to take it on and keep it going as an annual tradition.”
