Rugby is returning to high schools across Nova Scotia after an order from the education minister.
The Nova Scotia School Athletic Federation cancelled the high school rugby season Thursday due to safety and insurance concerns.
But, In a statement to our newsroom Zach Churchill says “the abrupt decision by the NSSAF contravened terms and conditions of the Memorandum of Agreement with the Department of Education and Early Childhood Development.”
He adds, “the NSSAF neglected to inform the department of its intent to deliver the decision Thursday and did so without appropriate consultation with school communities.”
Churchill says he has “called on NSSAF to reinstate rugby for all high schools immediately for the duration of the season.”
He is asking the Federation to work with the department to create an expert panel to review research on safety in school sports across Nova Scotia.
Meanwhile, grade 10 student and rugby player at Park View Education Centre, Rachel Kini, was happy and surprised to learn of the decision.
“I’m overjoyed. It ended up being a big sport for me and I’ve met so many new people within three months.”
Kini, who also plays hockey, says she was inspired to play girls rugby because it was a different sport and was motivated by her friends.
“They just told me to go do it and give it a try. I ended up really loving it.”
She says she doesn’t consider safety an issue, noting that it is competitive on the field but friendly afterwards.
Kini says each player signs a waiver knowing there are injury risks.
She looks forward to getting back on the field with her teammates.
Reported by: Nick Yorston
Twitter: @NickYorston
E-mail: yorston.nick@radioabl.ca
