[Ottawa, November 14, 2024] – The Canadian University Men’s Rugby Championship (CUMRC) proudly announce the recipients of the Lt. Colonel WDC Holmes Awards, presented by Michael Holmes, Chair of the Canadian Rugby Foundation, in honor of his late father, Lt. Col. W.D.C. Holmes.
These prestigious awards celebrate 16 student-athletes (8 CUMRC and 8 U SPORTS), nominated by their coaches, who have demonstrated exceptional leadership and commitment to rugby beyond the field. From mentoring young players to spearheading community initiatives, these athletes embody the future of Canadian rugby’s managers and administrators. Each recipient’s university will receive a $500 financial award toward its Rugby Athletic Financial Award (AFA) pool.
2024 CUMRC Lt. Colonel WDC Holmes Award Recipients:
- Cameron MacPhail (Memorial University) – A leader on his team, MacPhail supports young athletes in strength and conditioning while championing a grassroots minis rugby initiative in rural Newfoundland.
- Sacha Laroche (École de technologie supérieure) – A standout student-athlete balancing academics, athletics, and community engagement, Laroche promotes rugby in secondary schools through the Rookie Rugby program and organizes campus sports activities.
- Will Corry (University of Ottawa) – Corry exemplifies the student-athlete ideal, juggling high-performance rugby with a demanding nursing placement while serving as a Team Executive Board member.
- James Webb (Queen’s University) – Passionate about charitable giving, Webb has played a key role in his program’s Run for the Cure initiative, helping raise $25,000 for cancer research.
- Jakob Schulz (University of Guelph) – A leader in team fundraising, Schulz spearheaded the team’s Movember campaign and contributes as a program leader and mentor.
- Patrick Williams (UBCO Heat) – As team captain, Williams organizes fundraising, workout sessions, and film study, while also volunteering as a youth coach and serving on the Heat Athletic Council.
- Jacob Bourne (UBC Thunderbirds) – Dedicated to both rugby and environmental stewardship, Bourne volunteers with youth rugby programs and conservation efforts at Mossum Creek Hatchery and Haida Gwaii Salmon Unlimited Society.
- Merlin M’Cloud (University of Victoria) – A quiet yet inspirational leader, M’Cloud leads by example on and off the field. His dedication earned him the role of team captain in his final year with the Vikes.
These recipients represent the best of student-athlete leadership, demonstrating that success in rugby extends far beyond the scoreboard. Their contributions to their communities and university programs help build a stronger future for Canadian rugby.
