SEASON PREVIEW: UPEI Panthers gear up for historic 2024 rugby season

By Thomas Becker 

The UPEI Panthers women's rugby team is poised for another unforgettable season in 2024, building on their historic success from last year.

In 2023, the Panthers finished atop the standings with a 5-1 record, hosted the Atlantic University Sport (AUS) championship game at home for the first time, and fielded a program-best five all-stars. This season, even more history will be made as UPEI prepares to host the U SPORTS Women's Rugby Championship for the first time. While expectations are high, the UPEI squad is embracing the opportunity to be in the national spotlight.

"We're all incredibly excited. It's an honour to host this tournament at home, especially with our fans cheering us on," said Panthers captain Emma MacLean. "The past two hosts set a high bar with the experiences they created, and we're hoping to do the same here at UPEI."

But first, they need to take care of business in their own conference. The road to AUS glory will be challenging, with the St. FX X-Women, Acadia Axewomen, and Saint Mary's Huskies standing in their path. The Panthers are ready to avenge last season's championship loss to the X-Women and will rely on a new multi-layered attack structure on the offensive end while becoming a more physical unit on defence.

"Last season's championship game left us with a bitter taste in our mouths," said Abbey Morice, who'll assume the role of captain alongside MacLean. "As Coach Voye says, it's in the 'rearview,' but we have to use it as motivation to push even harder."

On the field, the Panthers boast a fierce forward pack anchored by seasoned veterans. MacLean, a first-time all-star in 2023, will once again don the 7 jersey, leading the way with her experience and leadership. The biggest development this offseason was the unexpected return of All-Canadian standout Emily Duffy. She's a game-changer who brings an unmatched level of skill and intensity that sets her apart as one of the most dominant players in the conference. Lining up around Duffy will be a strong contingent of ball carriers, including Olivia McLeod, Carla Stewart, and Emily-Anne MacQuarrie.

Mackenzie Stewart, shifting from the second row to the back row, will take on the role of flanker this season, while Morice returns to the second row, where her presence in the lineout will be crucial on both sides of the ball.

Sahara MacLean, who will start at number 8, is a new face in this year's starting lineup. The sophomore worked tirelessly in the offseason and is coming off a successful summer, having competed at the U19 Atlantic Championships as a member of the U19 Atlantic Selects. 

"Bringing back key veterans to this year's pack gives us a significant edge in scrummaging and ensures we have the physicality needed to contend in the conference and at the U SPORTS championship level," said Panthers head coach James Voye.

In the backfield, veteran scrum half Mia Fradsham and fly half Paige MacLean will provide the tactical insight needed to direct the team's attack. Fans should be particularly excited to watch U20 Canada standout Ria Johnston, whose speed and agility are a sight to behold. The return of starting centre Emily McKenna adds further strength to the lineup, while Sarah Bain is expected to have a breakout season after shifting to the outside centre position. Also deserving recognition is all-star fullback Charlotte Branchflower, whose exceptional kicking skills are second to none. Last season she led the league with 46 points, racking up 20 conversions and two penalty goals.

"Their overall speed, athleticism, and rugby IQ is exceptional, and I look forward to seeing them attack open space within our new structure," Voye said. "This should allow them to run freely if we can move the ball to the outside channels more efficiently." 

Rookies will also play a vital role for the Panthers this season. Forwards like Adrianna Platis, Madeline Landry, Deirdre Studer, and Halee Trenholm bring new energy to the team, while freshmen Rowan Gallagher and Isabella MacKinnon are set to make their mark in the backfield, adding defensive aggression and bolstering the team's attack.

With their sights set on both conference and national titles, the Panthers are primed for another exciting season. With a combination of experienced leaders and enthusiastic newcomers, they're ready to build on last year's success and leave a lasting impression on the U SPORTS stage.

The Panthers open their season at home against the Acadia Axewomen on September 7 at 2 p.m. Tickets can be purchased at panthertickets.ca. Donations of non-perishable food items are being collected at this game in support of the UPEI Food Bank.