Two members of the University of Victoria women's rugby program will contribute to Canada's high-performance pathway this spring, as Brittany Waters and Ollie Winser take on national team coaching roles through Rugby Canada's 2026 NextGen programming.

Waters, head coach of the Vikes women's rugby team, has been named head coach of the NextGen EAAST Sevens squad, set to compete May 29–30 in Haguenau, France. The international tournament will see Canada face off against Denmark, China, Poland, Germany, Belgium and the Czech Republic, offering a key development opportunity for emerging senior athletes within the national system.

"EAAST 7s in France this May will be a great opportunity for senior NextGen athletes to compete at an elite level in an international rugby tournament," said Waters. "The high-performance environment, combined with valuable international experience, will play a key role in preparing athletes for future major competitions while supporting the continued growth of our senior program by strengthening the player pool."

Assistant Vikes coach Winser will also play a vital role in athlete development this summer, leading coaching efforts at Rugby Canada's U18 West Development Camp, hosted August 2–9 at Shawnigan Lake School. The camp is part of Rugby Canada's broader NextGen strategy, identifying and supporting top young talent across the country.

The appointments underscore the strength of the Vikes women's rugby program and its continued impact on the national stage, with both coaches contributing their expertise to the development of Canada's next generation of rugby athletes.