Emily-Anne MacQuarrie commits to UPEI after strong showing in UPEI-CRFC rugby series
In the face of the adversity of 2020, one Charlottetown athlete took advantage of an opportunity that may not have presented itself otherwise. Emily-Anne MacQuarrie was looking forward to a year of competition and development on the Colonel Gray rugby team, but COVID-19 cut those dreams short.
“Not being able to complete my Grade 11 season was disappointing for me,” said MacQuarrie. “I was working so hard during the off-season to make sure I could have the best season and be the best me for my team.”
Opportunity presented itself this fall, and MacQuarrie pounced on it. She was invited to play with the Charlottetown Rugby Football Club (CRFC), where she impressed many with her skills and smarts, including the coaching staff of the UPEI women’s rugby team. MacQuarrie has committed to joining the Panthers in 2021-2022.
“Going from playing against high school girls to playing against girls at the varsity levelwas a big adjustment,” said MacQuarrie. “It pushed me to be a better and smarter player because I was up against a higher skill level.”
MacQuarrie was able to really show her stuff later in the fall when the soon-to-be Panther played in a three-game showdown between the CRCF and UPEI. From the opening kickoff, UPEI assistant coach James Voye was impressed with what he saw.
“She played exceptionally well and showcased to the team,” he said. “I like what she can bring to the program next fall.”
Voye and head coach John LaBoyne believe MacQuarrie’s physical presence and skill will be a perfect fit in their team’s much lauded scrum attack. The 18-year-old can line up at both the loose-head and tight-head prop positions and should help solidify the team’s front row. Voye also likes what he sees from MacQuarrie’s abilities to run, catch, pass, and evade.
“She’ll add to the Panther’s attack as a strong ball carrier and to the defensive side, making dominant tackles around the fringes of the breakdown,” Voye said. “The team couldn't be happier she decided to attend UPEI and play rugby for the Panthers in 2021.”
Go Panthers Go!
