All for one: Women’s Rugby Panthers forging new winning culture

By Thomas Becker

Family. Community. Connection. Those are the pillars of a new era for the UPEI Panthers women's rugby team as they aim to build on recent success and establish a sustainable foundation under first-year head coach Curtis Lauzon.

"Words like family and community are exactly what I hope people feel when they first step into our environment," Lauzon said. "For me, connection is at the heart of everything—we can only grow, push boundaries, and succeed when we're truly connected to each other." 

That philosophy is crucial this season as the Panthers carry a massive roster of 49 players and one of the deepest coaching staffs in Atlantic University Sport (AUS). Lauzon believes it's not just about depth on the field, but about making every athlete feel valued. 

"With a large roster, the key is making sure that contribution isn't defined only by minutes on the field," he explained. "I want athletes to feel that they're part of something bigger than their playing time in any given week."

Stronger together

The Panthers' staff reflects the same "all-for-one" mentality. Ellen Murphy, a highly respected figure in Atlantic rugby, joins as lead assistant coach, bringing experience from both U SPORTS and the Canadian Rugby Championships. Performance coach Owen MacWilliams returns in a refined role after gaining endorsements from players as an essential voice in the program. UPEI also welcomes back Nicole Davies, while adding several specialist coaches, including Panther alum Mia Fradsham and Olivia McLeod, as well as Ryan Lloyd. 

Supporting them is an expanded sports science and support team, encompassing strength and conditioning, mental performance, and video analysis. It's a structure Lauzon hopes will ensure the program's long-term sustainability. 

"I feel really fortunate to be stepping into a program that has had so much success," Lauzon said. "Winning an AUS championship and making three straight trips to nationals shows the standard that's been set here. For me, that's not pressure as much as it is a reminder that we're part of something special."

Key players and new faces

On the pitch, the Panthers will lean on veterans like two-time all-star Emma MacLean, who brings both leadership and impact the number 8 position.

"The team is feeling locked in and excited to get the season started," MacLean said. "Like always, we're hunting for another AUS banner, and I expect us to continue to be a threat to each team in the league."

Alongside MacLean, Lauzon highlighted forwards Adrianna Platis, pushing for a potential U20 Canada call-up, and rising contributors Madeline Landry, Deirdre Studer, and Jasmine Mohtadi. In the backs, the scrum half trio of Lauren Misener, Laurence Cormier, and Aby Walsh will dictate tempo, while Jorja Cook is set to take on a bigger role as a playmaker. Out wide, threats like Sarah Bain, reigning AUS Rookie of the Year Rowan Gallagher, and newcomer Tori Hogan add speed and firepower.

The rookie class is also drawing attention, with front row Finlay MacPherson and flanker Robyn Moffat already turning heads in camp. With more than 20 additions this season, competition for spots is fiercer than ever. 

Building something lasting

Lauzon isn't shying away from the goal of winning a championship. He wants the Panthers to play with pace and creativity, keeping opponents under constant pressure. Still, he insists success in year one isn't defined solely by results.

"For me, success goes beyond wins and losses," he said. "It's about building a strong foundation—creating a culture where players feel connected, valued, and proud to be part of the program. If by the end of the year we've established clear standards, built trust, and our players believe in the direction we're heading, then I'd consider that a successful first season."

That foundation, MacLean believes, is already taking shape.

"Despite our large roster and new coaching staff, it already feels like a tight-knit group," she said. "This season there's a strong emphasis on teamwork, building confidence, and creating a positive environment that pushes our growth as a team."

For a program fresh off its most successful stretch in history, the present feels like the beginning of something bigger, rooted in connection, fueled by ambition, and built to last.

*The Panthers will host the Acadia Axewomen in their home opener on Saturday, September 13, at 2 p.m. Purchase single game tickets today!