Concordia Stinger back Edward McGregor has been named to the national team representing Canada at the fourth World University Rugby Sevens Championship in Porto, Portugal July 21-24.
The six-foot-three, 230-pound Montreal native will join his team for training camp July 14-18 before heading to Portugal where Canada will be one of 20 men’s teams in the prestigious competition. The Canadians are in a pool with Kenya, Hungary and Portugal.
“The level of competition is very high from what I understand,” said McGregor. “It includes a number of well-established players from countries like England, Spain, South Africa and Australia. This being said, Canada also walks this line with a strong national sevens development program. My prediction for Canada is top five of 20.”
Canada finished seventh in 2006 and 10th in 2008.
Whatever the outcome for Team Canada, McGregor will earn value international experience that he can use to help the Stingers in the Quebec university rugby season this fall.
“It's definitely a confidence booster not only for myself but for my teammates,” McGregor said. “It will be nice to experience an international standard of play and to bring the experience of the level to the field. The opportunity to be part of such a prestigious event will be significant for my progression and development as a player.”
To be eligible for World University competitions, participants must be enrolled in full-time studies at a post-secondary institution, be born between Jan 1, 1982 and Dec. 31, 1992 and be amateur athletes.
