The unstoppable UVic Vikes crush Ottawa 41-8, advancing to the U Sports semifinals with eyes locked on gold after a flawless season.
Undefeated and Unstoppable
The University of Victoria’s women’s rugby team is rewriting history—one try at a time. The Vikes stormed into the U Sports Championship semifinals after flattening the University of Ottawa Gee-Gees 41–8 on Oct. 29 at UBC’s Thunderbird Stadium.
This win wasn’t just another victory—it marked a milestone. For the first time ever, UVic entered nationals as the number one seed, riding high on an unbeaten season and a hard-fought Canada West title.
Redemption and Resilience
Just two weeks earlier, the Vikes edged out UBC 18–17 in the Canada West final—a sweet taste of redemption after last year’s heartbreak against the same team. Their confidence? Well-earned. With seven straight wins this season, the Vikes have outscored their opponents by a staggering 325–64.
Head coach Brittany Waters, now a two-time Canada West Coach of the Year, credits the team’s success to a culture shift years in the making.
“We knew this group was special,” Waters said. “After two silvers, our returning players were hungry for gold, and our newcomers brought a whole new spark. It’s a complete, well-rounded squad.”
A Team Built on Grit and Heart
While the entire team shines, Carissa Norsten has been nothing short of electric. The fourth-year fullback and Canada West MVP led UVic with seven tries and 35 points, setting the tone on and off the field.
“Carissa’s the first to arrive and the last to leave,” Waters shared. “Her work ethic is unmatched. She leads by example, and it’s contagious.”
Norsten’s brilliance is part of a deep roster stacked with talent—Sierra Gillis, Faith Tilley, Justine Blatt-Janmaat, Maggie MacKinnon, and Ella O’Regan were all named conference all-stars.
Focused on the Gold
With the semifinals set for Oct. 31 against Guelph, the Vikes know what’s at stake. Their attack is sharp, their defense disciplined, and their mindset laser-focused.
“We’re not thinking about the noise,” said Waters. “We’re just focused on what we do best—playing for each other.”
Even with the championship hosted at rival UBC’s home turf, the Vikes feel the momentum behind them. Their bond, built on trust and passion, might just be their secret weapon.
A Legacy in the Making
Since taking the reins in 2015, Waters has guided UVic to a medal every single year—a feat that speaks volumes about the culture she’s built.
“This isn’t just a job—it’s my passion,” she said. “I’m lucky to coach athletes who love the game and each other. That’s what makes this program so special.”
As the Vikes march toward the championship final four, one thing’s clear—this team isn’t just chasing history; they’re creating it.
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