Canadian Women picked for Atlanta 7s

John Tait has made three changes to his Canadian Women’s 7s team to take part in the next round of the HSBC Sevens Series in Atlanta next weekend. The team will look to take it one notch higher than their standout performance in Brazil that saw them reach the Cup final. Defending champions Australia will have a target on their backs as the build-up to the Olympics starts to approach the critical stage.

Injury has knocked out Britt Benn while Mandy Marchak and Breanne Nicholas miss out on the trip to Fifth-Third Bank Stadium at Kennesaw State University. Kayla Mack and Charity Williams join the squad along with Series debutante Emma Jada. The 20-year-old prospect has impressed with her attacking style for Maple Leaf development sides in both 7s and XVs and now gets her chance to impress as she graduates to full senior honours.

Among the others to miss out are Caroline Crossley, Arielle Duboissette-Borrice, Emily Belchos, and Julia Greenshields, all of whom appeared at the Dubai tournament in December. Joining Benn on the disabled list are veterans Elissa Alarie, Magali Harvey, Ashley Steacy, and Natasha Watcham-Roy due to injury.

Canada are currently in 3rd spot on the overall rankings, tied with New Zealand on 28 points and only trailing on scoring differential. Australia are 12 points clear on top after winning both the Dubai and São Paulo tournaments. Russia, Ireland, and France are grouped with Canada in Pool B. The tournament kicks off on Friday, April 8. All matches will be streamed live by World Rugby.

CANADA WOMEN’S SEVENS
Hannah Darling (Peterborough), Bianca Farella (TMR), Emma Jada (Guelph Redcoats), Sara Kaljuvee (Toronto Scottish), Jen Kish (capt., Edmonton Rockers), Ghislaine Landry (Toronto Scottish), Megan Lukan (Barrie), Kayla Mack (Wild Oats), Kayla Moleschi (Williams Lake), Karen Paquin (CRQ), Kelly Russell (Toronto Nomads), Charity Williams (Markham Irish)

Head Coach – John Tait
Assistant Coach – Sandro Fiorino
Manager – Meaghan Howat
Therapist – Sandeep Nandhra
Strength & Conditioning – Tyler Goodale

DAY 1 FIXTURES
Apr 8 – 12:30 EST – vs Russia
Apr 8 – 15:14 EST – vs Ireland
Apr 8 – 17:58 EST – vs France