VICTORIA - Athlete, coach, mentor, and distinguished referee Julianne Zussman has left an indelible mark on every facet of her rugby career. On February 24, 2024, the University of Victoria Vikes associate director, sport compliance and student support, will receive her second induction into Rugby Canada's prestigious Hall of Fame.

In 2020, Zussman earned a spot in Rugby Canada's Hall of Fame as part of the 2014 Women's Rugby World Cup team, a historic group of elite athletes that turned in a magical performance by making it all the way to the Women's Rugby World Cup final to be narrowly defeated by England. Their second-place finish is the highest Rugby World Cup finish of any Canadian side.

"I have a profound sense of gratitude and honour to receive this recognition from Rugby Canada. It's given me the chance to reflect on my journey, the people I shared it with and all the wonderful opportunities I have received along the way," said Zussman. 

Zussman, who spent six seasons as an assistant coach with the Vikes women's rugby program, is now the Department of Athletics and Recreation's associate director, sport compliance and student support, where she contributes to the ongoing growth and development of the varsity and sport club programs, helping the university continue to meet the evolving needs of the student-athlete experience.

Embarking on her playing career at the grassroots level, Zussman emerged from the vibrant rugby culture at Ashbury College. Her prowess extended across four esteemed rugby clubs in Canada: the Ottawa Irish, Town of Mount Royal RFC, Velox RFC, and Castaway Wanderers RFC. Julianne's dedication also earned her a spot on Rugby Quebec's provincial team.

Internationally, Zussman's remarkable rugby career saw her amass 44 caps and 18 tries, predominantly making an impact in the back three. Debuting against Scotland in 2007, she showcased her talent at the 2010, 2014, and 2017 Women's Rugby World Cups, clinching a silver medal in 2014. Following the 2017 Rugby World Cup, she secured a spot on the World Rugby Dream Team. She received the 2016 Rugby Canada's Gillian Florence Award, a testament to her embodiment of Canadian rugby values. Zussman also contributed to Canada's sevens team, participating in 11 international tournaments.

The always humble Zussman credits the recognition to her longevity and involvement in the sport.

"I was never the star player but having been to three World Cups as an athlete, being part of the leadership group for the latter part of my career, and co-captaining the team on many occasions, I've been around for a long time. My journey's been defined by finding ways to give back to the sport that shaped my life," she said.

Transitioning from player to match official, Zussman became the inaugural capped women's Canadian rugby player to officiate internationally in 2019. Her debut on the HSBC World Rugby Sevens Series marked the beginning of a stellar officiating career, encompassing international sevens tournaments, the Tokyo Olympics in 2021, the Women's Six Nations, the Rugby World Cup Sevens, and the 2021 Rugby World Cup (played in 2022).

Off the field, Zussman has generously shared her knowledge as a coach and volunteer with the University of Victoria women's rugby team and the Dawson College women's rugby team.
 

ABOUT THE RUGBY CANADA HALL OF FAME 

In October 2016, a nine-member 'Ways and Means Committee' was established to develop a plan to honour and preserve rugby's culture and heritage in Canada by recognizing the extraordinary achievements of rugby's participants throughout the country through the Awards and Recognition program. The Awards and Recognition Program and the Rugby Canada Hall of Fame recognize the efforts of those that have made a significant impact on the sport of rugby in Canada.