The Vernon Jackals capture their first B.C. Men’s Rugby Saratoga Cup with a thrilling 20-19 win over Terrace Northmen in Salmon Arm.
Vernon Jackals Make History in Salmon Arm
Historic victory for the Okanagan team
After years of near misses, the Vernon Jackals claimed their first-ever Saratoga Cup at the B.C. Men’s Rugby Championship on Sunday, Aug. 11, in Salmon Arm. The Jackals edged the defending champions, the Terrace Northmen, 20-19 in extra time, bringing provincial glory to the North Okanagan squad.
A Battle of Two Dragons
A thrilling final showdown
The Jackals and Northmen battled fiercely at the Little Mountain Sports Complex. Vernon led 15-5 at halftime, but Terrace fought back with two second-half tries, taking a 19-15 lead. In extra time, Tristan Gaudry dove over the try line to secure the Jackals’ victory, ending a decade-long pursuit of provincial supremacy.
Road to the Cup Final
Semifinals set the stage
The Jackals earned their spot in the final by defeating the Rocky Mountain Rogues 27-0, avenging their 2023 loss in Cranbrook. Terrace reached the gold-medal match after a 12-5 win over host Salmon Arm Yeti, setting up a classic showdown between two seasoned rivals.
Players Reflect on the Triumph
Team spirit and personal milestones
Veteran player Kevin Stecyk, with the Jackals since 2006, called the win “fantastic” and praised the team’s momentum. Club spokesperson Trevor Feeney described the victory as “unbelievable,” capturing the excitement and camaraderie that define the squad.
Women’s Championship Highlights
Salmon Arm Yeti dominate women’s division
At the same venue, the women’s Saratoga Cup B.C. Summer Rugby Championship featured six teams. The Salmon Arm Yeti won the title, defeating the Rocky Mountain Rogues 28-10. Trail RFC finished third with a 12-7 win over Elk Valley RFC, while defending champions Terrace RFC placed fifth.
Significance for B.C. Rugby
A boost for provincial rugby
The Jackals’ victory marks a milestone for the Okanagan Rugby Union, which has seen Vernon dominate league play but struggle at provincials. Their triumph, combined with strong performances in both men’s and women’s divisions, underscores B.C.’s growing rugby talent and the competitive depth across the province.
This article is original and written specifically for Surreyspeak.com
