VICTORIA – When the Canadian women's rugby team takes the field this August at the 2025 Rugby World Cup in England, the University of Victoria's legacy will once again be front and centre. With a track record of developing world-class talent, the Vikes rugby program continues to help shape the national team's identity on the world stage.
Head coach Kévin Rouet announced his 32-player roster today, naming a squad that blends experience with emerging talent. Among those earning their spot are Vikes alumnae and World Cup veterans Gabrielle Senft, Paige Farries and Pamphinette Buisa.
"We are excited to see Paige, Pamphinette and Gabby on the World Cup roster. We continue to see Vikes representing on the world stage, and it's a source of pride for our program," said UVic head coach Brittany Waters, who represented Canada at five World Cups in both sevens and fifteens.
"All of these athletes have demonstrated strong character and values over the years and are so deserving of this opportunity. Both Pamphinette and Paige have worked incredibly hard to overcome injuries and reach this moment, and I know they will be stronger for the challenges they've faced. Gabby has been a consistent performer for the national 15s squad and will be a huge factor in their success. We also have a few athletes that were knocking at the door for this World Cup, and we are so proud of them too," she continued.
For Farries and Buisa, the road back to the World Cup has been a test of grit and determination. Buisa was forced to miss the postponed 2020 Olympics due to a torn meniscus, followed by a wrist injury that kept her sidelined even longer. Farries, a key figure in Canada's backline, suffered a devastating knee injury earlier this year that put her World Cup hopes in serious doubt.
Currently ranked No. 2 in the world, Canada enters the tournament as a serious contender, trailing only top-ranked England in the global standings. Unlike their fully professional counterparts in England, New Zealand (No. 3), and France (No. 4), the Canadian squad is made up of athletes navigating a semi-professional landscape—yet continues to challenge the best in the world.
The Canadians will open their World Cup campaign on August 23 against No. 15 Fiji at York Stadium. Pool B play continues with a clash against No. 10 Wales on August 30 in Greater Manchester, followed by a September 6 showdown with No. 7 Scotland at Sandy Park in Exeter.
