Cru MINI Tournament, GIANT Success!

If you were anywhere near Crusaders Rugby Club on Saturday morning, you’ll know the place was a complete Zoo! Though there were no elephants or giraffes in sight, much to the disappointment of our every increasing South African contingent, the grounds were awash with smaller animals, namely rugby players of all shapes and sizes… though most of the sizes were small and cute!

We hosted arguably the most successful mini’s tournament we’ve ever had, thanks to the organisation of several volunteers spearheaded by Gary Gotchies (inventor of underwear) and Chris Snyder (inventor of backhand remarks) plus many, many more. Over 517 players attended (actual number was 518, which I’m sure you’ll agree is over 517) from 14 different clubs. It was a day filled with excitement and camelriding… sorry, camaraderie (in the excitement of the day my notes are wild and I can’t read my own writing!)

Mixed teams from Under 6 (x8), Under 8 (x17), Under 10 (x21) and Under 12 (x20) competed for bragging rights and the right to nag their parents for an ice cream from our friends at Ontario Ice Cream or a face painting session courtesy of our friends at Kish & Makeup.

It wasn’t all fun and games though, as politicians and town officials muscled in on the action and mugged the camera for their publicity shots. Just kidding, we were thrilled that Pat Daniels (former Cru President) and Chris Tudor Price (current Cru President) were able to open proceedings with some inspiring words as they welcomed our distinguished dignitaries from the Town of Oakville and the Province (of Ontario in case you were wondering). These included Stephen Crawford, Oakville MPP, Sean O’Meara, Ward 1 Town and Regional Councillor, Janet Haslett-Theall, Ward 3 Town and Regional Councillor, Peter Longo, Ward 5 Town Councillor, and Natalia Lischyna, Ward 6 Town Councillor. Our guests were presented with their very own Cru jerseys although we have no expectation that they will be taking to the pitch any time soon.

So much great feedback and compliments about how amazing Crusaders Park and our facilities are! A heartfelt thank you to all the volunteers whose hard work, both on the day and in preparation for the tournament, made this event possible. Our members can be incredibly proud!

Here’s to many more successful events!