NIAGARA — On Saturday, April 9, the Fort Niagara State Park held a unique rugby tournament with competitive opportunities for many ages and divisions called the Battle for the Border 7’s Tournament.
Among the teams were the athletes of the Iroquois Roots Women’s Rugby team, who played their first games and took a victory.
“We went 1-2 today, in what goes down in our history book as our 1st games ever played.
These girls who came together to wear the Iroquois jersey played for more than themselves today. Friends and families came together from near and far and stood in the freezing cold rain to cheer them on and truly made the day so special,” wrote the Iroquois Roots Rugby Facebook page.
“We triumphantly won a game, and tries were scored throughout the tournament by Katelyn (Heinz) Heyens, Larisa (Laxriss) Skye, Ava Hill, Lora (Mel’s daughter) Mateo. Man of the Match awards went to Larisa Skye, Cara Hill and Caitlin English and tournament MVP went to Katelyn Heyens! We thank everyone for all the kind words, encouragement and support. We’re ready to continue to grow as athletes and as a family.”
The Indigenous Warriors Rugby Club took home the Senior Women’s Division title, presented by South Buffalo Rugby.
